Radisson Resort Goa: Baga Beach Bliss Awaits!
Radisson Resort Goa: Baga Beach…Well, Let's Talk About It! (Spoiler Alert: It's Complicated)
Okay, alright, let's dive headfirst into this Radisson thing in Baga. They promise “Bliss,” and frankly, after a week, I feel…a little bit blissed, a little bit baffled, and a whole lotta sunburned. Buckle up, buttercups, because this review is gonna be a bumpy ride, just like the Baga Beach itself.
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- Description: A brutally honest and detailed review of Radisson Resort Goa, Baga Beach, covering EVERYTHING from accessibility and cleanliness to the chaotic buffet and the questionable "Happy Hour." Get ready for real opinions, quirky observations, and maybe a little bit of sunshine-induced delirium!
The Arrival: Smooth(ish) Sailing and My First Grumble
First impressions? The resort itself looks gorgeous. Gleaming white buildings, lush tropical greenery… it's Instagram bait, for sure. And the airport transfer? Seamless. They whisked us away in a comfy, air-conditioned car. Score one for the Radisson.
But then… the check-in. Sigh. Okay, here's the thing: I'm a person who loves a smooth check-in. You know, quickly get the keys, get to the room, start the vacation. This…wasn't one. There was some kind of computer hiccup, so lots of waiting. I'm talking, like, enough waiting to watch the sun sink further into the Arabian Sea. The front desk staff, bless their hearts, seemed genuinely apologetic, but apologies don't get you to your room any faster. So, first grumble, brought to you by a cranky, travel-weary writer.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag (Mostly Good)
Okay, big kudos here. They actually get accessibility. Wheelchair access is pretty solid. Ramps everywhere, elevators that work (thank the heavens!), and spacious rooms. The walkways are wide, making navigating the resort relatively easy.
- Accessibility Highlights:
- Wide pathways and ramps.
- Elevators available.
- Accessible rooms with spacious bathrooms.
- They've really thought about it.
- Areas for Improvement:
- The pool area. While accessible, getting around it with a wheelchair can be a little tricky, especially if crowded. A few more strategically placed ramps around the pool's edge would be a godsend.
Rooms: Cozy, Comfortable, and Armed with ALL THE AMENITIES
Our room? Honestly, it was pretty darn nice. Clean, well-appointed, and everything worked (a rare and precious commodity, in my experience!).
- What I loved: The incredibly comfortable bed, the blackout curtains that actually blocked out the Goa sun (essential for any serious napping), and the in-room safe box. I love a safe.
- Room Details:
- Air conditioning (essential!)
- Free Wi-Fi (thank goodness!)
- Minibar (a little pricey, but hey, you're on vacation!)
- Coffee/tea maker (vital for a caffeinated existence)
- Bathrobes and slippers (because luxury!)
- TV with satellite channels (good for zoning out at night)
- A pretty good shower, with (hallelujah!) ACTUAL hot water.
- The "Additional toilet" was actually just a normal bathroom.
- The "wake-up service" was helpful, since I'm a disaster and forgot on multiple occasions.
- Quirky Observation: The mirror in the bathroom was perfect for selfie purposes. Not that I would…ahem… ever…
Internet Access: Wi-Fi Woes and Wonderful LAN
Free Wi-Fi! And it worked! Yay! In theory. In reality, it was variable. Sometimes lightning-fast, sometimes…well, let's just say I spent more time staring at a loading screen than I did actually getting things done.
- Wi-Fi Breakdown:
- Wi-Fi in all rooms: Yes! (mostly)
- Wi-Fi in public areas: Also yes, but temper your expectations.
- Internet [LAN]: Actually, the LAN was better. Go figure!
- Recommendation: If you're a digital nomad, or someone who needs reliable internet, maybe bring a backup.
- Anecdote: There was one morning when the Wi-Fi went completely MIA during a very important Zoom call with my boss. Let's just say, I spent the next hour frantically trying to find a signal and muttering under my breath. Not my finest hour.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking: A Buffet Battleground and Some Surprising Gems
Alright, let's get real about the food. The restaurants are plentiful, but the experience varies.
- The Buffet: A Culinary Adventure…Mostly Overwhelming
- Asian Breakfast? Check. Western Breakfast? Double-check. Soups, Salads, Deserts? All in one spot.
- The breakfast buffet was, frankly, a bit of a free-for-all. Delicious chaos. It's a sensory overload of options. Some mornings felt like a delightful, chaotic free-for-all; others were just… overwhelming.
- The food itself? Good, not great. The scrambled eggs were consistently dry, but the dosas were pretty amazing. Chef's Kiss.
- Anecdote: One morning, I saw a dude literally fill a plate with a mountain of bacon. I'm not judging, I'm just…reporting.
- Restaurants: Finding the Hidden Treasures
- Asian Cuisine: Some great restaurants.
- Western Cuisine: Also some great restaurants.
- The Poolside Bar: Happy hour? Yes, please! Not the best cocktails, but hey, you're lounging by the pool, so who cares?
- Restaurants: A la carte options for those who want to avoid the buffet.
- The Snack Bar: Always a good idea for those midday cravings.
- Anecdote: The first night, we ordered room service. The burger was surprisingly good. I mean, really good. It felt like a secret, delicious escape from the buffet madness.
Things To Do, Ways to Relax: Spa Days and Serene Sunbathing
The resort has a wealth of amenities.
- Spa & Relaxation:
- The Spa: Worth it. The massage I received was heavenly, it actually loosened up all my muscles after two weeks of travel.
- Fitness Center: Actually really well-equipped, which is welcome.
- Sauna & Steamroom: Perfect for detoxing after a few too many cocktails.
- Pool with a View: Gorgeous! The outdoor pool is gigantic and inviting, and the view is stunning.
- Body scrubs & Body wraps: Always great after a day at the beach!
- Foot bath: Needed.
- Anecdote: I dedicated an entire afternoon to the sauna, steam room, and a massage. Pure bliss. I left feeling like a revitalized, slightly less-stressed version of myself.
Cleanliness and Safety: Reassuringly Thorough
This is where the Radisson shines.
- Cleanliness Highlights:
- Rooms sanitized between stays.
- Daily disinfection in common areas.
- Staff trained in safety protocol.
- Hand sanitizer everywhere.
- The whole place felt incredibly clean, which put me at ease.
- Individually-wrapped food options!
- Safety Features:
- CCTV in common areas.
- Fire extinguishers.
- Smoke alarms.
- Security [24-hour].
- Anecdote: The fact that they had a doctor on call (though I didn't need it) was also reassuring, especially considering the current world climate.
Services and Conveniences: Helpful, but Not Always Seamless
- The Good:
- Concierge: Extremely helpful for arranging excursions and transportation.
- Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services.
- Daily housekeeping.
- Elevator.
- Cash withdrawal.
- Luggage storage.
- Car park!
- The Not-So-Good:
- The "Contactless Check-In/Out" was a bit…clunky, despite the technology.
- The gift shop was a bit overpriced.
- The invoice provided was a bit confusing.
- Anecdote: Trying to get a taxi felt like navigating a minefield. The concierge helped, but it still took
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're heading to Radisson Resort Goa Baga Goa, and frankly, my expectations are doing the limbo. I mean, Goa, right? Paradise? Or, you know, a slightly overcrowded beach with overpriced cocktails? Only time (and a truly epic sunburn) will tell. Here's the plan, such as it is… more of a "suggestion," really. Think of it as a choose-your-own-adventure, but with questionable decisions likely.
Day 1: Arrival – Hopes & Hangry-ness (and a Catastrophe!)
Morning (ish) - The Long Haul & Luggage Lament: Arrived at Dabolim Airport. Already feeling the heat. The journey itself was a comedy of errors, which is par for the course with me. First, the flight was delayed, because of air traffic control. Then, the luggage carousel broke a record for awkward pauses. Finally, the taxi ride into Baga? Let's just say my driver thought "taking the scenic route" meant "taking every possible potholed shortcut through the jungle." I could have sworn I saw a monkey side-eyeing me. We finally made it to the Radisson, sweating like a melting popsicle and desperately hungry.
Afternoon - Check-In Chaos & Poolside Panic: The resort itself looks…fine. Lush greenery is supposed to distract from the fact that the lobby felt like a massive waiting room for the overbooked plane. Check-in was a battle of wills, mostly between me and the slow Wi-Fi. Finally got the room key. Now, before I got to my room, the elevator… yeah, imagine a claustrophobic box with a broken heart. After an arduous climb carrying my suitcase and my hopes up the stairs, I open the door to my room…. and it’s gorgeous! But then, I dropped my phone. Onto the marble floor. Screen shattered. My happiness literally cracked. I just sit there, staring at the wreckage and eating a packet of stale biscuits I found in my bag. This is going to be a long week.
Evening - First Taste of Goa (and Regret): Decided to "embrace the chaos." Went to a nearby shack on Baga Beach. The sunset was undeniably beautiful. We ordered fish, it was cooked, it was spicy, it was delicious. The cocktails, however, were basically coloured water. I swear I'm more drunk from the general feeling of being overwhelmed. Staggered back to the resort, contemplating whether I should invest in a poncho to wear 24/7 and just avoid getting wet. My mood is already changing.
Day 2: Beach Blues & Bargaining Battles
Morning - Wake-up Woes & Beach Briefing: Woke up with a throbbing headache and the distinct feeling that my skin was trying to stage a revolt. Sunscreen is absolutely crucial, people! Drag my aching self to Baga beach. The sand is hot, the sea is inviting, and the hordes of people are… well, they’re there.
Afternoon - Sun, Sand, and… Salesmen: Found a slightly less crowded section of the beach. Tried to relax. Failed miserably. Within minutes, I was besieged by beach salesmen. Hats, sunglasses, trinkets, boat trips, massages… it was a relentless onslaught. I probably paid too much for a flimsy bamboo wind chime. Still, I got a good tan. I feel a little peace now.
Evening - Exploring the Local Markets (and Losing My Mind): Decided to brave Anjuna Flea Market. Oh. My. God. The sheer volume of people. The noise. The bartering! I felt like I was in a giant, colourful pressure cooker. Bought far too many things I don't need (a sequined elephant, a beaded necklace, a questionable amount of incense). The constant hagging was exhausting. Successfully negotiated down the price on a pair of elephant pants. Winner! (I think. Maybe I got ripped off. I don't care.) Ended the night eating street food - spicy, greasy and glorious.
Day 3: Watersports, Watery Adventures… and Stomach Issues?
Morning - Watersports! (Probably Poorly): I was brave enough to try parasailing. The view was spectacular, but I was scared. I screamed, but I survived! Then, the jet skis. I'm pretty sure I almost capsized. The ocean is huge, okay? I'm not sure how to drive that well.
Afternoon - Curry Catastrophe & Resort Relaxation: Decided to try the resort restaurant for lunch. Ordered chicken curry. A big mistake. Suddenly I felt like I was sitting next to a volcano. Spent the rest of the afternoon cautiously sipping water, and avoiding any activity that might involve running to the loo. I spent a lot of time in-room today.
Evening - Sunset Serenade (and Early Night): Dragged myself to the resort bar for a sundowner, only to find out someone was playing the sax. The music was good, my stomach was not. I went to bed the minute the sun set.
Day 4: The Goa Dilemma - Do I Love it or Hate it?
Morning - The Search for Tranquility: I really need some peace. Headed to the resort's spa for a massage. It was glorious. I feel a bit better.
Afternoon - Exploring Old Goa: It's so good to get away from the beach scene for a while. The churches in Old Goa are beautiful and peaceful. The history is so fascinating. Great photos for my memories!
Evening - Dinner Drama: Decided to try the restaurant again. I ordered a safe meal. At the end of the meal, it's like a waitress fell flat at my table. Good thing I don't have any food on it. I gave a tip.
Day 5: Double Down on the Beach, Doubling Down on the Sun
Morning - Basking in Bliss (and the Sun!) Forget the cultural stuff, forget the "experience." Today, it's just Baga Beach. Sun, sand, the rhythmic crashing of waves. That's it. I found a decent spot, away from the salesmen. Brought a book; probably won't read it. Mostly just want to stare at the ocean and feel the sun on my face. This is so different from the first days.
Afternoon - Beach Bumming & Beach Bites: This beach-bumming is exhausting. I did not expect to need a nap on holiday. Had lunch at a proper beach shack. Ordered a fish curry (I know, I know, I'm asking for it). Surprisingly, it was delicious.
Evening - More Shack Shenanigans: Spent the evening at the beach shack again. Found a table directly in front of the ocean. Sat and watched the sunset with my friend. I found a new favorite cocktail.
Day 6: Farewell Feast, Final Fumbles
Morning - Resort Exploration & Packing Panic: Finally got around to exploring the resort properly. The pool is lovely, the gardens are beautiful. Spent a blissful hour just wandering around. Started the dreaded packing. Everything takes up twice the space on the trip home. Realized I left my phone charger back at the restaurant. Sigh.
Afternoon - Last-Minute Souvenirs & Last-Minute Drinks: Headed to the local market again to grab some last-minute gifts. Finished it off with a final cocktail at the resort bar, reflecting on the week that was. It was a mess, but a good mess.
Evening - Goodbye Goa (Until Next Time?): The taxi to the airport was actually on time! I'm really lucky. As the plane took off, I swear I saw a flash of sun. It was a relief to go through the journey without delays. I can't wait till next time! Goa, you chaotic, captivating, and slightly sunburnt paradise, goodbye for now… maybe.
Radisson Resort Goa: Baga Beach Bliss...or Is It? (My Truthful FAQ!)
Okay, spill. Is Baga Beach *really* all it's cracked up to be? And, by extension, is the Radisson *actually* blissful?
Alright, deep breath. Baga Beach? Look, it's Goa. It's… chaotic. Gloriously, slightly manic, in-your-face chaotic. Think of a disco ball exploded over sand, mixed with the smell of fish and the persistent sound of people trying to sell you *everything*. It's a sensory overload. The Radisson… well, that's trying to be an oasis *within* the chaos. And sometimes, it succeeds. Sometimes, it’s a slightly-too-expensive, but still beautiful, escape from the mayhem. Other times? You’re just another face enduring the persistent beach vendors hustling you, right outside the perfect pool you wished you could always enjoy.
The rooms. Give me the honest lowdown on the rooms, the views, the whole shebang. Were they… clean-ish?
Okay, the rooms. They’re… nice. Let's just say that. Pretty spacious, actually. Clean *enough* for my admittedly not-that-picky standards. I had one of those "pool-view" rooms, which was totally worth it… until I actually *looked* at the pool, which was usually crowded. The view? Gorgeous sunsets over the palm trees. (Got some killer photos, I tell you!). The bathrooms were… okay. Slightly dated, maybe? My shower pressure was a little… wimpy. But hey, after a day of sweating my brains out, you're grateful for *any* water. One funny little detail? The air conditioning was a *beast*. It kept me shivering all night, which, given the Goa heat, was a welcome change. Except, one night, it mysteriously died. The poor guy at reception, bless his heart, had to get Maintenance over and the fixing lasted while the sun was rising. So, yeah, clean-ish. And the air conditioning is a gamble.
Food! Tell me ALL about the food. (I’m a foodie, okay?)
Okay, FOOD. My *thing*. This is where things get… mixed. The Radisson has a few restaurants, a pool bar, all that jazz. Breakfast buffet? Standard hotel buffet stuff. Loads of choices, from Indian dishes (the dosas were AMAZING, seriously) to Western-ish options. I may *or may not* have gone back for a second plate of those dosas… and maybe a third. The staff was lovely *until* you went to grab some more of those Dosas, then they started to give you a look (I am sure they have seen it all, LOL). Dinner? I tried the Indian restaurant. The butter chicken was… good. Not the best I've ever had, but definitely good. My friend, who is more adventurous than me (thank god) ordered something fiery that set his mouth on fire for the next hour. The pool bar? Cheap cocktails, sometimes watery but still tasty. The service… hit and miss. One day, quick and friendly. Another, I was waving my hands around like a deranged person for 20 minutes to get someone’s attention. It's Goa, you know? Relaxed vibes… and also, sometimes slightly chaotic.
The pool. What's the pool situation like? Crowded? Clean? Did people actually behave themselves?
The pool… ah, the pool. It's lovely. Honestly. Surrounded by those perfect loungers, and palm trees casting dappled shadows. *Beautiful*. BUT... it was packed. Like, sardines-in-a-can packed. Finding a free lounger felt like winning the lottery. The water was clean, mostly. I mean, there were inevitably a few stray leaves and a rogue discarded cocktail umbrella floating around, but it wasn’t *terrible*. The people? Well, let's just say that some people seem to forget they're in a shared space. Loud conversations, blasting music from phones... One guy even brought his own giant inflatable unicorn. I'm not kidding. A GIANT inflatable unicorn. (I secretly wanted to get a picture with it but was too awkward to ask.). It’s a nice pool, just brace yourself for the crowd and the occasional inflatable wildlife.
Is it a good place for families? Or is it more of a couples/party vibe?
Okay, families… it *can* work. There were definitely families there. Kids splashing around in the pool, running around the grounds. There's a kids' club (I peeked in – seemed decent). But… it felt more geared towards couples and groups of friends, honestly. Baga Beach itself is known for its party scene, so it’s kind of unavoidable. The music from the beach bars drifts over, and there are often beach-goers (especially during the evening). So, if you want a super quiet, family-focused holiday, maybe look elsewhere. If you're okay with some noise, some crowds, and some late-night revelry, then yeah, it’s manageable. I saw kids having a blast, others looking bored. It's a gamble.
Let's talk about the staff. Were they friendly and helpful? Or just… there?
Ah, the staff. This is where the Radisson generally shines, or *tries* to. The reception staff? Generally helpful, and patient with all my questions. The wait staff? Mostly lovely. Especially the breakfast crew, the ones making those dosas, they were always smiling, even when it was clearly super busy. The poolside bar staff? As I said, a bit hit-or-miss depending on the day. One time, I felt like I was being ignored (I think it was because I looked poor, but I could be wrong). The housekeeping was efficient and generally, kept things pretty clean. I mean, it's *Goa*, so perfection isn't really on the menu. But overall, the staff were a definite plus. They tried hard. And sometimes, that's all you can ask for.
Anything else I should know before booking? Secret tips? Quirky details?
Okay, here's the lowdown: * Location, Location, Location... but also, Noise! It’s close to Baga Beach, which is great, but even at the Radisson, the nightlife will still drift into your room. So, bring earplugs (I didn't, and regretted it). * Bargain! Always haggle at the beach shacks. Don't be afraid to walk away – they'll usually lower the price. (I am terrible at haggling, btw). * Get Out! Don't just stay at the resort. Rent a scooter, explore the area! Anjuna flea market is an absolute must-see if you're into that kind of thing (lotsHotel Radar Map
