The Perfect Solitude to End your Week

The name ‘Goa’ is pretty much present in every traveller’s head. And in all probability it is significantly high on their travel bucket list. And it is for this very reason that it is difficult to find places for a private holiday in Goa.

However, there are actually a lot of unknown places and beaches that still retain their pristine and solitary look. Cola beach, for example, is one such destination that is tucked between two hills of South Goa. Cola beach would be perfect for a short, yet intimately private and peaceful weekend getaway.
Cola beach is situated at a short drive from Palolem Beach, the most popular of South Goa’s beaches. The Agonda Beach is located north of Palolem and the Cola beach is situated north of Agonda.

The last mile access is through a mud road and then a steep descent onto the beach. The beach with its untouched golden sands greets you as you begin this descent. But, the real speciality of this beach is a small river that joins the sea right in the middle of this beach.

And this is what you would a double bonanza or a heady mix of the salt water and the fresh water. The tourists holidaying at Cola beach get to enjoy both these worlds. You can do kayaking or swimming in the small river and if you feel adventurous, you can hit the vast seas.

The beach is safe for swimming. But, even then a couple of lifeguards are always present during the day to prevent any misfortunes. The most popular sport here is beach volleyball, popularly played between the river and the sea. One wrong shot and you will need to jump into the river to fetch the ball, while another wrong shot can send you into the Arabian Sea!
There are two niche resorts that offer a mix of tented accommodation, log huts, beach facing cottages and river facing cottages. And all of them is located under the shade of swaying casuarinas and coconut trees. The resorts dish out the local catch in continental and local cuisine. And, if you feel like partying, the clubs of Palolem Beach and the more famous ones of North Goa are not too far away.

Cola Beach is ideal for spending a private and blissful holiday. Don’t miss the special sunset here and even the early morning swims with the dolphins!

WeekEnd in and around Singapore

With its pristine beaches and unspoiled natural beauty, it has everything you could ever wish for in a picture-perfect tropical holiday destination – and more.



Virtually undiscovered until just a few years ago, this idyllic retreat has enjoyed a surge in popularity in recent years, particularly amongst Singaporeans who, due to the island’s close proximity, have made it their preferred spur-of-the-moment getaway.



The largest of 3,200 islands in the Riau archipelago and the third largest of the 27 provinces in Indonesia, Bintan Island covers an area of approximately 1,140sqkm, fringed by a coastline measuring 105km. With a population of less than quarter of a million, the island has an interesting, eclectic mix of different cultures and ethnicities, including Malay, Bugis, Chinese and a unique tribe called the Orang Laut (sea nomads).



A trip to Bintan’s two main towns, Tanjung Pinang and Tanjung Uban, is a great way to learn more about the island’s people and local culture. Both towns are filled with tasty local-style dining options, bargain shopping opportunities and traditional villages, giving visitors a glimpse into the locals’ lifestyle.