What: Silent Noise private parties, visit http://www.silentnoise.in/about/ or call 09730935334, price on request.

Why: Skip the band-baaja this wedding season for a silent noise party, where music is piped through individual wireless headphones rather than booming speakers. Successfully running similar gigs in Goa and Pune, these guys also supply other equipment, DJs, lasers and screens. But remember, it’ll cost you more than a song.

When: You want to be as quiet as a (g)rave.

What: Deep designer discounts from www.99labels.com, use invite code 99invites. Exclusively for bpb subscribers!

Why: Launched just yesterday, this site offers discounts of up to 70% on merchandise from one Indian or international (although they haven’t procured anyone yet) designer every week. Satya Paul is the current flavor, with saris slashed from Rs 27,000 to Rs 17,000 and cufflinks marked down from Rs 1,500 to Rs 900. Next in line is Ashish N Soni, followed by Shantanu and Nikhil and Rocky S.

When: You need a site for sore eyes.

What: Villa Morjim Portuguese Estate, Temvado, Morjim Beach, Rs 30,000 per night for five bedrooms before December 15, visit www.villamorjim.com.

Why: Because this estate’s charm and proximity to the beach (a two minute walk) makes it one of the best properties in Goa. It comes equipped with a range of facilities, including a terrace pavilion with a 360 degree view of the River Chapora, a full staff, and library. You can also shack up at the nearby Little Siolim, or Casa Marsol in Candolim.

When: You want the best casa scenario.

What: Club Fresh, on Morjim Beach, North Goa, visit the Facebook page here.

Why: Opened just last week with no official information out yet, this is Goa’s newest urban legend. Word on the street is that this Nikki Beach-style, pop-up resort is right on the beach, a mere 20 feet from the sea. Amenities include luxury tent accommodation, sushi and Thai restaurants, international DJs and more.

When: You want to humour a rumour. Pretty and still underground, Club Fresh is perfect for an after dinner drink.

What: The old, the new and the born-again on Goa’s food scene – Hotel Kinara, Chimbel, on the “low” road between Panjim and Old Goa; Ernesto’s Bistro, Mala, 49, Near Fontainhas Post Office, Panjim, call 09823015921; L’Orange, near Magnum Resort, Candolim Main Road, call +91 9970173606.

Why: Our best find - Prawns Rawa and Crab Masala at the half-hidden, local dive Hotel Kinara. And new in the Latin Quarter, the food at Ernesto’s Bistro is as beautiful as the old house it occupies. We suggest you go with Ernesto personal recommendations: pork ribs and steak. Finally, L’Orange has a revamped menu focusing on local cuisine, spices for which Chef Asheen’s mum grinds by hand. Wednesdays are Goa Festival Nights.

When: You want a taste of beaches and cream.

What: Beach hopping in a fisherman’s boat, Palolem Beach, South Goa, Rs 2,800 for seven hours – bargaining encouraged.

Why: Use charm as bait and get the fishermen at Palolem to take you out on their boats. The perfect day trip begins from the nearby Patnem Beach, with lunch on the Agonda sands (don’t miss Darcy's beefsteak) and dolphin watching on the way to the secluded Butterfly Beach.

When: You want to get in on Goa’s net profit.

What: Paperworks, F-2, Pinto Arcade, DB Marg, Panjim, opposite Panjim Gymkhanna, call (0832) 2425841.

Why: Earn your hippie points at Paperworks, where all the stock is made from hand-made, locally produced paper. You can record your trip on their super cool stationery while chilling at the Miramar Beach nearby.

When: You want to leave a paper trail.

What: The Pawsh, dog vacation retreat, Pune, visit www.thepawspack.com, Rs 350 per day and up.

Why: Here, pets get private temperature controlled rooms equipped with customised beds and insulated roofing. They also have access to a swimming pool, masseuse, and friend circles with like-minded canines. Trips can last from 24 hours to two months.

When: You want your vacation to go to the dogs.

M. D: Eternal Creation (www.eternalcreation.com), with shops in Calangute and Mcleodganj, has wonderful clothing and accessories for women and kids. This Aussie designer employs Indian and Tibetan women to create her designs. This is ethical fashion at its best!

K.V: 60 km from Bhuj a quiet strip of one of the nicest beaches in India is Mandvi. A minutes walk from this beach and you are in the midst of 10 luxury tents and this resort is called "The Beach at Mandvi Palace". Owned by the Maharaja's nephew this retreat is unspoilt by the 5-star standard fare and is unique with its own stately charm…

What: Bag in a Bag, call Beverly on 9820792918, available at Sabbah Sharma, Mumbai; Artjuna and Sasha's Shop, Goa; and Chilli Billi, Bangalore; Rs 90 to Rs 250.

Why: These silk organisers carry essentials, fit in any bag and ensure you don’t misplace stuff on your switch from satchel to sling. We also love the patchwork lingerie and stiletto bags. Customised orders available.

When: You want to get Carrie(d) away.