Though five-star resorts such as the Intercontinental, the Hyatt and the Kempinski have long made their mark on this most diminutive of Indian states (all characterised by top-notch service, opulent surroundings and calm, sand-raked beaches) there is nevertheless much charm to be had in forsaking the mammoth swimming pools and generic - if generous - resort bedrooms, and plumping instead for a stay in one of Goa's most evocative, charismatic, heritage boutique hotels.
BBC: Goa's boutique gems