North Goa’s newest boutique hotel, the 27-key Passport, opened by entrepreneur Ashesh L. Sajnani, revolutionises the industry. With a focus on cocktails, discussion, and local discovery, this establishment boasts the title of India’s first traveller’s hotel that prioritises cocktails.

Cocktail culture is nothing new to Sajnani. In his earlier film, Please Don’t Tell (PDT), he helped establish Mumbai’s contemporary cocktail scene by introducing the city to speakeasy-style clubs. By establishing The Passport Hotel in Goa, he brings the same vibe to the city, allowing guests to mingle over cocktails while discovering the area and the hidden gems that make this destination so special.

Among the most intriguing areas of North Goa, the hotel is situated on Badem Church Road in Assagaon. The surrounding area is famous for its restaurants, cafes, design shops, cocktail lounges, and creative population. The premise is straightforward: rather than keeping visitors cooped up in the resort, the hotel wants them to explore the local culture.

Mini Bar is the main gathering place and lobby bar of the hotel, located in the middle of the property. In lieu of the usual front desk, guests are invited to have a complimentary drink as they check in, creating a more relaxed atmosphere right from the start. The area seems less like a typical hotel lobby and more like a neighbourhood pub, what with the jazz playing in the background and the menu consisting of small meals.

Layover presents a new environment upstairs. Rooftop pool and bar with views of Assagaon hills, perfect for late-night get-togethers and deep chats.

Jet Lag provides a more intimate space for events like cocktail classes, selected tastings, and spirit-related conversations.

As part of its new Passport Program, the hotel is providing visitors with a booklet upon check-in that is more geared toward drink exploration than traditional travel documentation.

Guests are encouraged to visit the carefully selected pubs across Goa, engage with the bartenders, and collect stamps along the way. It traces their progression through the cocktail culture of the area over time.

Guests can enjoy the freedom of making their own cocktails in some of the hotel’s rooms with the help of DIY cocktail kits.

The 27 rooms keep the hotel on a more personal level. Each room is thoughtfully designed to promote rest and productivity, with some even featuring plunge pools and jacuzzis.

In addition to providing lodging, the venue often holds cocktail parties, jazz nights, and other community events that attract tourists, residents, and businesspeople.

A leisurely, exploratory style of travel that prioritises experiences over itineraries is consistent with the overall strategy.