Lui Beach Resort

We found a good deal when we booked just a few days before our trip. The place is basic but nicely maintained, with good quality rooms and a swimming pool. The beach was clean, uncrowded, and had smooth sand, about a 6 to 7 minute walk away. There are beach shacks serving food and drinks. A few things to know: the room views aren't great, and rooms can be on the second floor, with no escalator, so check when booking if stairs are an issue. There's no locker or electric kettle in the rooms, and I think they should provide those. The approach to the beach is a narrow road surrounded by tall bushes. After 7pm it could be tough getting back in the dark. Food at the restaurant takes at least half an hour, so it's better to eat out. Breakfast options are very limited, as others have mentioned.

The room makes a big difference here. At first they offered us a ground-floor room outside the complex with a large wall in front, and we were upset and refused it. To their credit, they did what they could to accommodate us and moved us to a much better room with a lovely balcony. I'd come back, but only if I can choose the room. Staff were lovely and helpful. Rooms are basic but clean, with large ceiling fans and air conditioning, which we hardly used. The pool is small and clean, with loungers around it and palm trees, all lit up at night. It's about a 10-minute walk down the lane to the beach. They exchange money at reception for a little less than elsewhere, but the rate isn't too bad and they won't try to catch you. The bathroom is a wet room with no bath, which suited us. Towels are provided in the bathroom and at the pool, and you can take them to the beach. They supply soap and shampoo at first and replace them if asked. They'll also replace loo paper and clean the room when you ask. Breakfast was toast, juice, tea or coffee, and eggs cooked how you like, with an Indian alternative too. Bar drinks were cheap compared with the UK, but a little more expensive than outside, not much more. A whiskey was about 70p and Coke 50p.

The location is great, with a private path through greenery to the beach, just a 2-minute walk away. There's ample parking, and the staff are kind and very helpful. The rooms and service are simply basic, so don't expect much. Bring your own hot water kettle if you want an early morning brew, as I did. Breakfast has limited choices but is satisfying. Ask them to use less oil on the eggs.

We paid 3200 a night with an extra child, and it felt like a complete waste of money. The rooms are very ordinary and don't feel like hotel rooms. They charge for marks on towels or bedsheets, and the food prices are very high, with biryani at 350rs and roti/Nan at 100. They serve the same breakfast every day, bread/omlet or Poha. Staff kept reminding and warning us about rules, weren't friendly, and didn't even smile. Payment is cash only, and if you want a receipt they ask for 18% extra. Strongly recommend avoiding this hotel.