Villa du Ocean

The only part I liked was the terrace, with its lovely view and infinity pool. The rest of the stay at Villa Du Ocean, Pondicherry, was disappointing and not worth the price. The property is on a very narrow road near a hospital, parking was extremely difficult, and getting in and out by car was a challenge. The rooms weren’t tidy and felt damp throughout. Water leaked from the roof just outside my window, then started coming into the room. I couldn’t sleep, and staff took no action after I reported it. I moved to another hotel after one night.

The early check-in was the one good thing. The room was already vacant, and the staff let us in. After that, I spent an hour calling room service and the help desk for hand and bath towels, but never got them. The bathroom tap first wouldn’t work, and now it won’t stop running. I was greeted at reception by a big rat, which made me dread seeing the room. I’m writing this on the hotel wifi. The service is pathetic for the five-star rates they charge. I’ve paid for four days already and feel stuck, but please look at other options and don’t book here.

The location is the only good thing here. The marketing is very convincing, with AI images showing a wonderful place, but the actual look and service are nothing like that. The bathroom sinks are broken and there’s fungus everywhere. I wouldn’t stay here with babies or kids.

The view from outside was gorgeous, looking over the town, and the ambiance was terrific. But we only visited the restaurant, and the food spoiled the experience. It was either unseasoned or too salty, and the wait wasn’t worth it.