During the ongoing monsoon season, when fresh fish is not readily available, the locals in #Goa don’t mind swapping the Fish in their Goan Curry with Okra (Bhindi). During our recent trip, we had the opportunity to interact with Chef George, while staying at the Acron Waterfront Resort. On our second day of stay, the staff at AWR organised a special cooking workshop, where we got the chance to learn how a Vegetarian Goan Curry can be made. So, take your cooking books and notepads out! It's time to take notes. 

Ingredients

Sliced Onions

Sliced Green Chillies

Home Made Goan Curry Paste (Made using assorted spices & coconut milk)

Water

Thick Coconut Milk

Chopped Okra (Bhindi)

Chopped Tomatoes 

Kokam 

Watch the Full Video to know how you can make the Vegetarian Goan Curry at home! 

Spacious, Comfortable Rooms
Tiny rooms with minimum space for movement? A big no for any relaxing holiday, especially those with friends and / or family. We all look forward to spending quality time with our loved ones, while chit-chatting, playing board games or just enjoying a discussion post late night dinner. And if your property offers a spacious room, along with lots of space to sit, move around and literally - feel just like home, then you know you've made the right choice. Our stay at Acron Waterfront Resort felt just like that! Each of the 47 rooms (including the newly added suites) were incredibly spacious and offered breathtaking views from the private balcony. Complete with modern amenities and plenty of space; we fell in love with our Seaside Room, the moment we walked in!



Sense of Tranquility
Every individual has their own reasons to pick a specific property during their stay. What if I told you this boutique resort has something to cater to everyone; while maintaining one integral USP - Tranquility - all around the property. Many people love their bit of fun and madness, but there are many (like me), who like to unwind at peace. We all look forward to some calm moments, especially since we live supremely hectic lifestyles. Lazy early morning walks, amidst the calm environment of the courtyard, was an absolute favourite! Despite being nestled in the middle of a bustling beach area, one can experience pure calmness and bliss.

The River Restaurant
The perfect way to end a long day of touristy views - a quiet candle lit dinner by the riverside. And of course, how can anyone resist kickstarting their day with a powerful breakfast, and that view? The River Restaurant is their in-house dining space. It offers a delicious breakfast spread and all day dining for non-staying guests as well. While the restaurant is well known for dishing out some unique fusion of Goan delicacies, we also liked their spin on simple, everyday breakfast items. The breakkie spread was delish, to say the least! Our favourite pick - Puri Bhaji. The item can be ordered during breakfast hours, and trust me - the crispy, piping hot puris and scrumptious bhaji (we sampled tomato-potato and chole on different days) was simply yum! Oh, and we also got the chance to cook up some delicious Goan lunch favourites, thanks to a masterclass by Chef George (which can be arranged at the restaurant for you as well). More on that very soon on our Instagram.




Infinity Pool

Unmatched Views
Baga Beach on one side, buzzing Baga Bridge on the other and of course, a breathtaking view of the Baga River - right in front of your property. We spent several hours taking in the natural light and views from our sea side room, which had the perfect view of the river meets Arabian sea confluence. Waking up to soft breeze, the sound of waves and birds chirping all around; while enjoying a morning cuppa in our spacious balcony, became a daily ritual, that we just couldn't get enough of. Of course, visiting the property during monsoon and winter has it's own perks (read: spending time by the poolside on chilly winter evenings with bae or enjoying some rain dance with your family in the open courtyard of the property - pick your favourite).

Bonus: Hospitality - A special mention of the excellent hospitality and service by the incredible staff. They were prompt and extremely helpful. Right from the housekeeping to dining and management; every member was warm, welcoming and extremely courteous. This is one of the most important factors for most families, couples and even groups during their long stay at a property. And well, Acron Waterfront Resort has scored full marks in this department, and too, with flying colours!

Well, we have given you enough reasons to book your next stay in North Goa at the Acron Waterfront Resort. They have got some exciting offers all year long, so don't forget to keep an eye out on their official website! And, do stay tuned for some more interesting stories related to our recent stay.
Coming Soon!

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For offers or bookings log on to https://www.acronwaterfrontresortgoa.com

Let's be honest, we love Sonam Kapoor Ahuja! And that's for a legit reason. An absolute sweetheart, who has been winning hearts for her performances and sartorial choices alike. But, we love how the actress has never shied away from being honest! She has a strong opinion, will stand up for a cause that needs attention and is always out there to support young talent. All this, and the fact that she has a pure soul with a golden heart, makes her the perfect girl boss! 

When it comes to conversations with Sonam, you are bound to leave the venue feeling inspired and motivated (and we love the fact that she does not mince words). As the gorgeous actress and entrepreneur celebrates her 34th birthday, we take a look at some of her most fabulous quotes, compiled from our interviews.

On behalf of Team Dancebee, here's wishing Sonam Kapoor Ahuja a very happy birthday! We can't wait for her to create magic with her upcoming projects like The Zoya Factor.

The world's biggest T20 Tournament is almost nearing to the end of Knockout Stages and the run to play offs shall begin very soon. The 12th Season of Indian Premier League has not been an easy ride for any of the teams. They had to earn each and every win. It has arguably produced more last ball thrillers than any other season in comparison. At the beginning of the tournament, all teams looked well settled and were deemed worthy for claiming a spot in the playoffs. But, as the tournament progressed, some teams performed better than others, by holding on to game changing moments or rather, building those moments. 

Some teams have been driven by individual brilliance, like for instance - the Kolkata Knight Riders, where Andre Russell has single handedly won them some matches. However, no great contributions from others has resulted in KKR sliding towards lower half of the points table, and losing 6 games on a trot. Whereas some teams like Chennai Super Kings have found a new Superhero to rescue the day. All said and done, only 4 teams can make it to the Playoffs. Here's our prediction of the top four, based on current standings and form:

Chennai Super Kings 

One simply cannot imagine the Top 4 points table to be complete without CSK on the list. Right since the inception of this tournament, they have always been in the playoffs, which is a big achievement in itself, as many other teams continue to thrive, in order to achieve this feat. Led by the charismatic Mahendra Singh Dhoni, CSK has always found ways to improve their game and individual performances has been key to this team. After all, it's a team game, and each player knows their role as well as requirement for contribution. They have been assigned specific tasks, and each time, it's incredible to see a player rise to the occasion, in order to fulfil his part of the duties. This time, things are no different, as CSK has won 8 out of the 12 games they have played so far. One more win in the remaining fixtures, and they are assured of securing a top 2 finish in the points table.

Delhi Capitals 

This can be termed as the best year for the Delhi based franchise. It is rightly said, "Progress is not possible without change." And, the Delhi owners have understood this logic quite well. This year, the owners changed the franchise name, jersey and also upped their game with fresh faces, which in turn has changed their fortunes all over. They have the perfect mixture of young Indian core - Shreyas Iyer,  Rishabh Pant and Prithvi Shaw; all of whom have been at their best this season. The addition of Dhawan at top of the order has been like a cherry on the cake. Foreign recruits like Rabada, Morris have made major impact, with former also being the Purple Cap holder. DC has already qualified for the playoffs, with 8 wins in 12 games. One more win could guarantee them a top 2 finish in the league stages.

Mumbai Indians 

Duniyaa Hila Denge Hum has been their anthem, and it seems they have lived up to these words, and that too with a big bang. MI is always known to have a slow start in the initial stage, and then, bounces back in the second half. Well, this time around the trends have changed, as the team has already won 7 out of the 12 matches played so far. Hence, they look set to book a ticket for the playoffs! The batting unit has fired most of the times, and helped chase down massive totals with ease. Each player has played their part very well. The unit looks like a well settled one with Quinton De Cock and Rohit Sharma providing promising starts for the likes of Krunal Pandya, Hardik Pandya and Keiron Pollard to build on and go for those mighty big shots in end overs. Jasprit Bumrah has done what he does best. Malinga, Rahul Chahar, Alzarri Joseph among others have played their part with the ball as well. Their only worry will be the form of their Captain - Sharma, who has blown hot and cold in the season so far, But as they say - Big players rise to the occasion. So, we look forward to seeing a twist in Hitman's form as well. 

Sunrisers Hyderabad 

The Hyderabad based franchise has faced a rather tricky road this season. Winning and losing 6 games each, they stand on the 4th place currently in the points table. They have banked heavily on their openers - David Warner and Jonny Bairstow, who have accounted for 50% of the overall runs scored by SRH this year. The Warner -  Bairstow partnership has hardly failed, thus giving their middle order less exposure, which may be the only cause of worry for SRH. However, with the return of Manish Pandey, things look a bit sorted, as he has impressed with some good consistency and form. Bowling has never been a caution area for SRH with Rashid Khan, Bhuvaneshwar Kumar and Khalel Ahmed doing major damage to the opposition. They are well supported by Mohammad Nabi, Sandeep Sharma, and Siddhart Kaul. Since KKR, KXIP and KKR need to win all their remaining matches, in order to make an impact and finish in the top 4, it looks like SRH has a decent edge over them.

Be it rain, snow or sunshine, none of us can do without at least one long, relaxed and well planned holiday. While some choose to travel solo, others may take off with their friends or family. In between our crazy work schedules and insane lifestyle, all of us can do with some time out. It can be for an adventurous trip, or a sunny day out at the beach! After all, we all swear by the saying that goes - "To travel is to live." Oh yes, indeed!

Every destination needs its own list of must haves. From your tropical swimsuit for a beach day or the perfect pair of boots that you may have kept aside for an afternoon surrounded by snow; we've all got our checklist full! In addition, all of us have got that 'One' important list of essentials, that we can't do without on any trip. Destinations may change, but these essentials clearly don't. Some items are always a must have. Of course, I've got mine too. A few HG products, some essentials here and there, and a few items that turn 'life savers' during a long trip! Here's my list of 10 travel essentials that I can't do without. PS: Don't forget to comment below with your favourites.

Travel Sized Skin Care Kit
Just coz' you are traveling doesn't mean that you skip a routine that you swear by. So, the next time you visit the beauty store, look out for travel sized kits or sample packets  of the products that you use for CTM (cleansing, toning and moisturising). Also, it would be advisable that you carry a moisturiser that contains at least SPF 30 or more. Never leave your home without sunscreen!

Our Pick: Clinique 3-Step Intro / Travel Kit

Hand Sanitiser
Be it a road trip or bird watching, you gotta keep hygiene in mind! Especially around areas that have limited access to wash rooms or hand wash basins. You definitely don't wanna mess around with dirty hands on the dinner table, after a long day out. Hand sanitisers are a saviour, especially when you have to use public restrooms or eat at highway joints.

Our Pick: Himalaya Pure Hands Hand Sanitiser

Refillable Travel Bottles
A moisturiser here, and a body lotion there. All of us have several everyday skin and hair care products that we can't do without. But, it's impossible to carry the full sized products, and most of them may not come in travel sized kits. That's when these tiny bottles come handy. Fill in with your product, and change the refill as per requirement on your next trip! I mostly use these bottles for my body lotion, shampoo and conditioner. It's all about traveling light, baby!

Make Up Kit
While traveling, I prefer using minimal products or choose to go with just the moisturiser and lip balm. It completely depends on my mood. But, I always carry a small make up bag, with some items that I swear by. Always have a good concealer, eye liner and lip balm / tint on you. These products are good enough to spruce up your look even on a dull day. If you've got space for more, add on a brow product and some mascara! Oh, and don't forget to make a statement with some cool make up pouch.

Our Pick: The 'Contour' pouch by PapelJam

Facial Mist
One of my HG products! I never leave home for a long trip without this. A spritz of this and you feel refreshed, even on a hot, sultry summer afternoon. Perfect for humid summers and even monsoons.

Our Pick: Innisfree Green Tea Mineral Mist

Sunglasses
I usually carry two pairs, or sometimes three (especially during summer). I can do without a hat or my favourite baseball caps, but it is impossible to step out for a trip without a pair of cool sunglasses.

Facial Wipes
These multi-use wipes are super handy. From a make up wipe after a long day to taking off all the dirt and grime on your face, in between a road trip or simply using it to wipe your hands after a meal; facial wet wipes have fast become a must have for every travel bag! Can't do without it.

Our Pick: Kara Make Up Removal Wipes

Toilet Seat Covers
We all know the condition of most public toilets. It becomes extremely difficult to find a proper rest room, especially during a road trip. While driving on the highway, you might end up finding one at a fuel station, but these restrooms do get tricky to use. Having a disposable toilet seat cover helps. Big time! You can also carry a small can of Toilet sanitiser spray for added protection and safety.

Tampons / Sanitary Pad
You are out on a long road trip. Zooming past villages or areas that may have limited access to sanitary hygiene items. And what if it's time for your periods to arrive and say, 'Well, Hello girl! I am back.' Always remember - its important to have a back up and / or a solution ready for everything. Keep your tampon or choice of sanitary pad pack ready with you always. You never know when it might just be 'that time of the month' (additionally, using a tracker app definitely helps to plan and organise things in advance).

Medicine / First Aid Kit
A habit that my Dad always swear by, and insists that I must too. Carrying your own small pouch of first aid / medicine always helps. Not every hotel may have one, and even a chemist may just get difficult to locate. Hence, a few basic items - including band aids, burn / wound cream like soframycin, small pain relief balm / cream / spray, paracetamol and prescribed medicines (if any) are a must. 

Bonus: Travel Charger - You definitely can't do without this one! Especially on long drives, trail walks or an entire day at the sanctuary. Basically, any place where you may not have access to a charging point for long. Forget pictures, it's an important item when it comes to any form of emergency (in order order to make a call or send across an SOS).

Do you have a Travel essentials list as well? Share some of your must haves with us.

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Love,

The Dancebee