Vanilla By The Beach Goa

Let me start by saying that the property does have good aesthetics, and the location is undeniably beautiful since it’s right next to the beach. That alone is enough to attract guests, and honestly, that’s exactly why we booked it. Unfortunately, that’s where the positive experience ended for us.

The issues started the moment we entered the property. The coordinator/caretaker, Sam, immediately passed comments about us being “Maharashtrians,” which came across as blatant racial profiling. We initially brushed it off as an awkward joke, but things only got worse from there. When we entered the room, there was a foul smell. We later discovered that the microwave still had an old prawn dish left inside from previous guests, clearly uncleaned. We informed Sam and asked him to clean it. It was only around 10:30 PM, not unreasonably late, yet instead of addressing the issue, he asked us to leave the microwave outside the room. I wish that was the end of it, but there were more unpleasant surprises. THE STAY DOES NOT INCLUDE HOUSEKEEPING. Writing this in all caps because it’s buried in the fine print and can easily be missed while booking. We were charged ₹500 just for basic cleaning, replacing bedsheets, and getting fresh towels — things that are normally considered standard hospitality services. Shockingly, even that cleaning fee did not include washing cutlery. When I asked whether the kitchen utensils would be cleaned too, Sam responded, and I quote: “Kitchen you use, I have to clean the cutlery and crockpot?” The sheer audacity and lack of professionalism from someone hosting paying guests was unbelievable. Things got even worse during a power outage one night. Sam claimed the electricity was out across South Goa, which is understandable and not the property’s fault. However, we later realized that even the showers stopped working without electricity, meaning there was no water supply either. When we politely asked how long outages usually last, his response was simply: “It will come when it comes.” No empathy, no attempt to assist, nothing. The checkout experience was the final straw. We were informed that every additional 30 minutes past checkout would be charged ₹1500.

Great location

Maintenance work in the neighbourhood

Apartment was ok, and as pictured. Air con was good.

4 hours before we were due to arrive, Sam asked us to send photos of our passports and visas on WhatsApp, which we did. We explained we were in the airport, we had slow mobile WiFi, so to give it 5 mins to come through. He quickly became very rude, saying we were not cooperating, that he didn't want to host us, and he will cancel the booking and refund us. 4 hours before! The cancellation came from booking.com, 10 mins before we were boarding our plane! While we frantically looked for other hotels, he said we could still come, if we sent him an apology letter! We ignored his comment, requested a refund with booking.com. Then he said sorry, and that we could still come. This was extremely stressful! Sam quoted us 2500rs for his taxi from the airport. We chose the government fixed rate taxi in airport arrivals, at just 1150rs. We went to the apartment, Sam had sent his son to meet us instead. The other negative is the pool area. His photos are misleading, and show what looks like a photo from when the complex was new. Many apartments around the pool are in a bad state of disrepair, and the pool itself is basically in the middle of a roundabout with bikes often driving round. Very few sun loungers, which several had rips in them. We found the pool area uninviting, and didn't spend much time there. There were some utensils missing, and not enough crockery or cutlery if you have a family of 4 staying. We asked twice for other utensils, they said they would bring them, they never did. The electricity also trips 2-4 times a day, which you can be waiting 30 mins for it to come back on. Location is good for short walk to the beach and restaurants, but if you want shops you have to get a taxi. Overall... We wouldn't stay again. Sam's attitude before we arrived was stressful, unprofessional, and almost ruined our whole holiday.

Sam the host was really helpful and made everything easy for us

Nothing

Exceptional beach home—clean, tidy, and perfect for a family of four. Located on the ground floor and just a 3-minute walk to the beach. The property also has an in-house bar and restaurant. It truly felt like a Greek home in Greece. Amazing host, Sam—highly respected and influential in Benaulim, which makes the place feel extremely secure. The area is very safe, even for solo female travelers. Safety is truly top-notch. Highly recommended

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An Exquisite Beachside Retreat Our stay at Vanilla by the Beach, Benaulim was nothing short of exceptional. Ideally situated just approximately 180 meters from the shoreline, the property offers effortless access to the beach while maintaining a serene and private ambiance. The apartment itself was elegantly maintained and immaculately clean. The washrooms were impeccably spotless, reflecting the highest standards of hygiene. The swimming pool was beautifully kept, inviting, and perfect for unwinding in absolute comfort. A heartfelt appreciation goes to Sam, the host, whose warm hospitality, politeness, and professionalism truly elevated our experience. He thoughtfully arranged everything we required and ensured our stay was seamless and thoroughly enjoyable. Overall, Venilla by the Beach is a refined and tranquil haven, ideal for those seeking comfort, cleanliness, and gracious hosting near the sea. Highly recommended, and we would gladly return without a second thought. 🌊✨

Excellent clean and beautiful place worth the stay