Aug 03, 2009 06:03 PM
2777 Views
I visited The Resort in July 09 with my spouse. We had heard from a friend that they have a monsoon package for Rs. 6000 per night for a deluxe (sea-facing) room (on a twin-share basis). This prompted us to enquire, and the first time we called, the booking office person told us that the package is indeed for Rs. 6000, which is inclusive of taxes and includes breakfast and dinner (both buffet meals).
The second time we called to book, another person told us that the rate for a deluxe room was Rs. 7000 (and he did not know of any package for Rs. 6000). This postponed our decision to go. However, we tried the third time, and this time again, another person in the booking office told us that the rate is Rs. 6000. Slightly put-off by this inconsistent information, we nevertheless went ahead with the booking for a weekend (sat. morning to sunday morning). We were also given inconsistent information about whether or not outside food and drinks are allowed.
We reached the hotel at 11 am, and contrary to our expectations, bags were not checked at the gate (not a very good thing, considering the recent events in the city). It takes around 20-25 mins to reach the place from Link Road Malad (Uncle's Kitchen signal). The weather was really beautiful, thanks to it being monsoon. There was a customary stand of umbrellas placed near the reception.
On reaching the reception for check-in, we were offered complimentary drinks (guava juice, nothing extraordinary). The check-in process was smooth and the lady was very courteous. There seemed to be some foreign guests checking out at that time. The usher escorting us to our sea-facing deluxe room was polite and helpful and communicated decently enough in English.
The room is exactly as shown in photos on their website ( http://www.theresortmumbai.com). The interiors were well done (though no carpet). The best part of the room was the bathroom (quite luxurious, with a bath tub; wish they had a hair dryer though). We were however disappointed that the balconies were sealed (coz of the moisture problem in the monsoon). It was a real shame coz the sea was violently beautiful. But at least they had informed us about this while booking! The room's mini-bar was well stocked, and there was the usual complimentary tea/coffee (unlimited). However, their food and drinks are indeed expensive (it's a five-star resort, after all!). The lunch we ordered was a mix of punjabi (quite tasty) and continental (strictly ok). The hotel did not seem too crowded, even though there was a conference being held on the same day. The buffet dinner was decent, with good enough variety. Room service was quick and friendly. The resort does have an access gate to the beach, but it was closed for some reason. The lawn and pool seemed well maintained. The resort has usual facilities like a spa, gym, etc. The breakfast buffet was quite elaborate. The check-out was smooth, and they informed us beforehand that we were permitted to have a late check-out up to 11.30am.
Overall, the experience was a really pleasant one, and i'd surely recommend this place to anyone who wants a quick getaway but does not want to travel to anywhere outside the city. The staff was friendly and the entire place was clean. There was ample parking for cars. They could have priced the monsoon package a bit cheaper, considering the dearth of people going to such resorts in monsoons. For all those interested, this package is valid till 30 Sept 2009.
