Villa River Cat travel tips and stories. Vacations ideas, cruises, spa and resorts

Villa River Cat is run by Rinhoo Sehgal, a creative-minded traveler. He designed an idyllic round house deep in the palm trees off a bumpy dirt track in the lost part of north Goa. It is more of a retreat than a hotel: Rinhoo’s many cats and dogs mingle in the grounds, where hammocks and daybeds blow gently in the breeze.

The owner’s personal touch makes your visit special – and that goes as much for the legions of artists and scriptwriters who head out there time after time as for first time visitors. Bathrooms are tiled with bright colours – this is India, remember – whereas in the entrance hall, marionettes hang on the wall and statues of Shiva and other gods watch over you.

The food is rather special. Fresh herbs, fruit and spices, delicious organic rice, and homemade curries are all served in the Miau restaurant, with the gentle sound of the river rushing by. If lounging around in the shade is not exactly what you looking for, Rinhoo will take you to his favorite lagoons for a swim, show you the starts through the telescope, and help you find your way across the country.

One thing is for sure, the side of Goa is not tie-dyed and bursting with glow sticks and deafening techno. It is tranquil backwater place, where you can relax all day long, count the coconuts in the trees and watch the fishermen return with their catch.

Location: Goa, India. Photos by: browners82 and j0rune