A Mixed Experience at W Goa
I recently had the opportunity to stay at the W Goa from October 22nd to October 26th, 2023, and my experience was a mix of highs and lows. Here's a detailed review of my stay:
Pros:
Complimentary Kids' Food: One of the standout features of the W Goa is that they offer free and healthy meals for kids 24/7. This is a thoughtful gesture that families will greatly appreciate.
Prime Location: The resort is ideally located, close to the beach and surrounded by lush greenery. The proximity to the beach allows for breathtaking sunsets, which are a must-see during your stay.
Medicine Desk: The availability of a dedicated desk for delivering medicines is a valuable service, especially when you need medical assistance in a remote area.
Varied Breakfast: The breakfast selection is outstanding, offering a wide variety of options to suit different tastes and preferences.
Outside Food Allowed: W Goa's policy of allowing outside food is a welcome gesture for guests who may have specific dietary preferences or want to explore local cuisine.
Cons:
High Prices: The cost of certain items, like a three-egg omelet, is quite steep. It's essential to be prepared for the relatively high prices of food and services.
Limited In-Room Dining Menu: The limited menu with only two paneer dishes for in-room dining can be disappointing for guests looking for a more extensive selection.
Room Conditions: Some guests have reported issues with room odors and damp walls, which can be a concern for those with sensitivity to such conditions.
Service Delays: Service can be slow, with a minimum wait time of 45 minutes for orders. It's advisable to plan accordingly, especially for in-room dining.
Payment Hassles: Guests should be aware that in the case of in-room dining, credit card authorization is essential. Otherwise, you'll need to pay in cash, with change often not returned and rounded off.
Slow Welcome Service: The delayed welcome drinks, taking three hours and multiple reminders, is a point of concern in terms of efficiency.
Delayed Requests: Some guests have reported that requests, such as fruits for kids, took longer than expected, which can be frustrating.
Overcrowded Beach: While the hotel is close to the beach, it can be overcrowded, particularly with children, which might not suit those seeking a quieter beach experience.
Inconsistent Service: The inconsistency in treatment upon check-in and check-out can be a bit disconcerting, and it's an area that the hotel should focus on for improvement.
In summary, the W Goa offers a beautiful location, excellent complimentary offerings for children, and an array of dining options. However, guests should be prepared for high prices, potential service delays, and room condition issues. With some improvements, the W Goa could provide an even more...
Read moreLet me whisk you away on an enchanting journey to the heart of W Goa, an ultra-luxurious 5-star resort perched beside the pristine Vagator Beach on a mountain. This place is more than just a destination; it's a dream come true. In my eyes, it's not just the jewel of Goa, but one of the crown jewels of India.
W Goa is a treasure trove of breathtaking views. The rooms open up to vistas that are nothing short of breathtaking, offering a panoramic view of the magnificent beach to the west. The landscape is a work of art, where the sky paints the most mesmerizing sunsets. Sipping tea on your private balcony feels like stepping into a living masterpiece.
The resort boasts multiple pools, each with its own unique charm. The rock pool area, perched at the summit of the mountain, is a personal favorite. It's the ideal spot to witness awe-inspiring sunsets and indulge in moments of pure serenity. If you venture higher still, you'll uncover a spot that could easily be the most romantic place in all of Goa. It's perfect for intimate moments with your loved ones, elevated in both altitude and romance.
While North Goa might not be everyone's first choice, W Goa is a game-changer. This property epitomizes luxury, from the ultra-luxe rooms to the sprawling grounds adorned with lush plantations and thoughtful layouts.
Parking is a breeze, with ample space available to accommodate your vehicle. To explore this extensive property, there's no shortage of golf carts at your disposal. The security team is proactive, ensuring your safety and peace of mind.
Moreover, the resort is meticulously maintained and impeccably clean, all thanks to the tireless efforts of the housekeeping team. They leave no stone unturned to ensure every corner of the hotel remains spotless, guaranteeing a stay that's not just luxurious but also hygienic and pleasant.
If your goal is to unwind in the lap of luxury and if W Goa aligns with your budget, then look no further. I wholeheartedly recommend W Goa as the ultimate destination for a memorable and indulgent getaway.
(For a more detailed exploration of the resort's dining experiences, I encourage you to refer to individual...
Read moreThey’ve an a-hole named Rohit managing Rockpool, an in-house bar. I had reserved a table with Rockpool via the hotel reception, which was confirmed and I was informed of a cover charge which I agreed to. Upon arrival, Rohit claimed that he has no information about my reservation and since he wasn’t the one who spoke to me, he won’t let us in unless we agreed to the updated and higher cover charges since he “manages the place and the receptionists don’t usually know anything.” He really seems to believe that he owns the place.
When I explained that I had reserved the table via the hotel reception he said that if I can’t name the person who I spoke with, then he can’t believe that I actually reserved a table at all and that I can come back during my next trip by contacting him directly. The audacity that he had to deny us entry after we had reached Rockpool for an already confirmed reservation was shocking, that too since the restaurant was only partially occupied. Also, he kept asking me to stand on the side to let other guests in, but there was no one there around us. It was overall a demeaning experience for an otherwise well-respected and decent group of ours. By the time they sorted their internal communication, we had lost the sunset experience and essentially paid for nothing.
Since when are guests expected to note down the name of every staff member we speak with? And since when do individual staff members have the authority to revoke previously confirmed reservations and pricing just because they weren’t personally spoken with at the time of reservation or the hotel staff did not communicate internally?
I had to deal with an a-hole staff member though I was the one paying, and I am pretty sure he draws his salary from the money we spend at these properties. W really needs to hire better and learn the basics of hospitality from the likes of Taj and Oberoi.
Overall service levels were also below average and food is at par with other local restaurants.
I have experienced W Goa earlier as well, and they were great back then. Now you can give it a pass unless you are looking forward to demeaning, cheap conversations with staff like...
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