Spotlighting tasteful experiences and recommendations has always been part of Urbanaut’s blueprint and a lot of that good taste comes from co-founder Samyukta. Read all about her travels around the country, through a spectrum of restorative places from inviting homestays to tucked away boutique hotels. Find these recommendations on Urbanaut.

The upside of all holiday travel feeling like work is that the opposite also holds true. This past year I’ve had the good fortune of pausing at a delightful variety of stays across India - some luxurious, many unique, all worth sharing with our Urbanaut community. 

Barefoot, Havelock Island

The resort I want to gatekeep but it’s been around so long and is surely not a secret any longer? Set smack bang on the ethereal Radhanagar beach with low footprint wooden cottages, a delightful little bar area and honestly good food - I could spend weeks here, if budget weren’t a concern. Barefoot luxury at its very best.

Amaraanth, Goa

Constant work travel to Goa has made it feel much less of a holiday in recent years. Except for my time at Amaraanth - where I stayed during our most stressful (and exciting) event - The Feast in the Fields. Nestled on peaceful Fatrade Beach in South Goa far from the madding crowd, this is an exceptional luxury boutique resort steps from the beach, with a fantastic bar (The Lab at Amaraanth), incredible food and amazing spa services. This was one time where a work trip felt more relaxing than a holiday.

Private Houseboat on the Brahmaputra

Riverine holidays are having a bit of a moment globally and the MV Rudra Singh I  managed by Assam Bengal Navigation is surely on par with the best in the world. This private 2-person houseboat floats down the ever calm Brahmaputra where your agenda is to do literally nothing, should you please. Of course for the fidgety, there are safari excursions, cycling trips on land, sandbank barbecues and much more. This is a truly romantic stay that is also great value for what you pay.

Hush Stays,Uttarakhand

A sublime family holiday replete with crystal clear views of the Nanda Devi (the second highest peak in India) while ensconced in our comfortable 2-bedroom cabin. Steep hikes, glorious Garhwali food, warm service (through rain, hail and the biting cold) and in-room chimneys made for the coziest few days - I'd move there in a heartbeat if I could. 

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