Wednesday, April 22, 2009
On our recent vacation to Fort Kochi, Kerala, we stayed at an old Portuguese heritage hotel called The Old Courtyard Hotel on Princess Street.
As we entered the huge wooden door, we were immediately transported to the elegance and beauty of a by-gone era.
This restored heritage building now offers 8 rooms, that overlook a charming courtyard.
You can enjoy a cup of cardamom tea sitting under a huge mango tree in the center of the courtyard, or dig into their wide variety of desserts that are so very popular!
The white-washed walls, the arches, antique furniture, the old switchboards and the attention to details makes this quaint place very special.
The dining area faces the courtyard. We were torn between enjoying the view and devouring their delicious breakfast:-)
View from the first floor balcony.
The terracotta tiled roof and the fresh green leaves of the mango tree make a lovely combination.
Top view of the Old Courtyard Hotel
Magical light filtering in through the window as we were shown our room.
The patina of the seasoned wooden floor with my cup of tea:-)
The owners have retained the original floor and I am so glad they did, the feel of the smooth wood against the feet is something else.
The rain-gods decided to shower their blessings on us that evening and the Old Courtyard took on a magical feel.
We just stood there watching the rain beat down while sipping our Masala Chai this time;-)
If we traveled to Fort Cochin again, we would surely return to this charming 17th century abode.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Sangolda in Goa is a 200 year old portuguese mansion owned by Claudia, a German Fashion Stylist and her Mumbai-bred husband Hari Ajwani.
This mansion houses hand-picked exquisite pieces sourced from Gujarat, Rajastha & Kerala in India as well as abroad.
Antique wooden furniture in colonial & ethnic styles, table linen, bed & bath linen, tableware, brass artifacts, wooden almirahs, everything finds a space in this beautiful mansion.
Beautiful courtyard with huge iron urlis, layered lamp & bright yellow paint...
Amazing space with exquisite artifacts & antiques...
I am completely in love with this antique 5 headed Hanuman ( very unusual)
Wooden furniture, cushions, home linen fill this airy space.
Functional display of lifestlye items. Love the terracotta floor tiles...
So next time you visit Goa, do put 'Sangolda' in your to-visit list:-)
( images from Indian Design- Daab)
