Ratnagiri Lighthouse

It is sad and disappointing to see that such a unique establishment in such a fantastic location is being run into the ground. Considering the charge of rupees eight thousand per night, the stay was not at all value for money. The following made me unhappy: -- Room: ----- It was not well maintained at all ----- Mattresses and pillows smelled old and musty ----- Corners and interior fittings were dusty ----- Hand spray next to commode did not work ----- In the bathroom the height of wash-basin was too much and wash-basin was fixed to a base that was too wide. One had to stand on tip-toe to wash one's face (and I am 161 cm tall). ----- There were a few cockroaches in the room -- Cuisine: ----- Menu does not have wide variety which would be acceptable but for the cooking standard ----- Cooking standard varies - a few times the food was too spicy and caused stomach upset ----- Restaurant area was not cleaned regularly - food dropped on floors remained there on next day -- Service: ---- Staff are polite and willing to help but their lack of experience and capability is glaringly obvious

The landscaping and vegetation was park like. But after that things go down hill - I was led to believe I would have a room with a beach/sea view, That was not the case and there are no such rooms. Then the rooms have no clear windows. There was a nice folding door to a nice patio - but all the windows were opaque (same for the other 2 windows) and you had to keep the doors closed because it was too hot. So the room is very dark all day and not a desirable place to be in - they don't seem to get the idea that when you wake up in the morning one wants a nice view if not the sea - at least the garden area. Then there were no dedicated beach lounge chairs and the area in front of the hotel on the beach was strewn with trash. Further out closer to water's edge there are some lounge chairs and umbrellas that can be used if you buy a drink from the beach vendor - these were rather run down. Then there is the swimming pool which was well kept - accept that the local flock of crows were constantly doing bird baths on the infinity side of the pool - making one wonder what biologicals are in the water and no desire to go for a swim to offset the heat.

An absolutely faultless stay! Service was impeccable, our room was beautiful (with an incredibly comfortable bed) and we had the most delicious food. Would absolutely recommend for a relaxing stay away from the hustle and bustle.