The White Balcao

The breakfast was wonderful, especially the eggs, some of the best I’ve had. I also liked the crowd and met some lovely people. The staff were helpful with suggestions for exploring, and the hostel’s cafe serves delicious coffee and food. It’s right in the heart of the city’s Latin Quarters, with colourful buildings just outside, and the ambience is really nice. The bathroom was tiny. The geyser still wasn’t working after 20 minutes, and the exhaust fan didn’t work either, which is a big safety hazard in such a small shower room. No toiletries were provided, and there’s no parking at the property, so you have to use a nearby public parking space.

The location is a strong point. Old goa, casinos, and nice cafes are all within walking distance. The staff were courteous and extremely sweet. But there were ants in the sugar jar, and the chai tasted like ants. The dorm had no private changing area, and the bathroom didn’t even have basics like a hand towel.

During our 2.5 weeks in India, this was the most comfortable place we stayed. The rooms and common spaces were clean, comfortable, tastefully furnished, and thoughtfully laid out. Staff were kind and helpful, and breakfast was delicious.

The room was alright, and the rest of the staff were more welcoming than the supposedly qualified “receptionist.” The woman at reception was extremely rude and not welcoming, and came across as argumentative and arrogant. She leaves around 7, then there’s half an hour with nobody to check you in or get rooms ready.