Sandy beaches, vibe are lures to Goa

The concept of owning a holiday home is relatively new to Indians, considering millions struggle to buy their first homes because of constantly escalating property prices.

But high-net-worth individuals, particularly non-resident Indians (NRIs) from the US and Gulf countries, are jumping on to the holiday-home bandwagon, attracted by the idea of owning a getaway pad - or a cosy home-away-from-home for retirement. Many are likely to turn up at the India Property Show in Dubai this weekend.

Any NRIs worth their salt expecttheir city of choice to meet basic criteria: good infrastructure; a cosmopolitan environment; excellent resale value; and a location far away from the madding crowd. Of course, India's billion-plus population puts paid to this final requirement.

As far as holiday destinations in India go, many believe Goa wins hands down. The allure of white sand beaches, a laid-back vibe and the area's famed seafood-based cuisine is hard to resist. Besides, it is the only place in India where casinos are allowed to operate - even if only offshore on board ships. And although the pace of construction in Goa has been frenetic, it is still possible to find pockets of secluded, well-priced developments.

"I have fallen in love with Goa and keep coming back, even if it's only for a couple of days at a time," says Varun Nagpal, of Vianar Constructions, a Delhi-based developer, who is constructing Sol Sienda in the rustic fishing hamlet of Reis Magos for a clutch of hand-picked clients.

Buyers get better value than elsewhere in India, he says. Sol Sienda has facilities such as a swimming pool, fitted-out kitchens, air conditioners, built-in closets and shower cubicles, which are otherwise considered upscale in India.

siyer@thenational.ae