Oceanic India: Your Dream Indian Getaway Awaits!
Oceanic India: My Dream Indian Getaway… Almost! (A Totally Honest Review)
Okay, so I just got back from Oceanic India, the "Dream Indian Getaway" they promised. Let's be real, folks. Marketing is a lie, generally speaking. But, and this is a big but, Oceanic India actually delivered on a lot of its promises. And a few unexpected surprises, good and… well, less good. So buckle up, because this is gonna be a rollercoaster of a review, just like my digestive system after too much spicy food (thanks, Oceanic India!).
(Accessibility & Safety – The Things That Actually Matter!)
Accessibility matters big time to me. Gotta give props where they're due. Accessibility at Oceanic India was surprisingly good. They had wheelchair access in most areas I frequented, including the main restaurant and a couple of the lounges. The elevator was a lifesaver. And they actually had facilities for disabled guests, which is a rarity sometimes. Plus, bonus points for that exterior corridor, which meant less fumbling in the dark. Now, I’m not wheelchair bound, but seeing these things in place gives me a warm fuzzy feeling, like I could bring someone who is and they’d be reasonably comfortable.
And on the SAFETY side? Whew! They were serious. Hand sanitizer everywhere, people! At the doors, at the elevators, near the coffee machines… they got it. They had a doctor/nurse on call, and a first aid kit that actually looked stocked, not just a dusty box of Band-Aids. They did daily disinfection in common areas and professional-grade sanitizing services. I even saw them using anti-viral cleaning products. Okay, maybe a little overkill, but I appreciated their commitment to cleanliness and hygiene certification. They even had a cashless payment service which, after my sweaty attempt to get rupees at the airport, was a lifesaver. And you know what? They let you room sanitization opt-out available, which is great if you're not a germaphobe. They were genuinely trying to keep everyone safe.
(The Internet & Tech Stuff - The Modern World's Essentials!)
Let's be honest, no vacation is complete without a decent connection to the outside world. And Oceanic India delivered… mostly. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Hallelujah! And it actually worked most of the time. The Internet access was pretty solid overall. They even had Internet [LAN] if you needed to pretend to do some serious work, I guess? Plus, Wi-Fi in public areas was reliable too. But there were moments, usually when I really needed to upload that Insta-worthy sunset pic, where the connection hiccuped. Still, I can't complain too much. Considering I was halfway across the world… it was better than some places I’ve been.
(Rooms & Amenities - Where the Magic (and the Annoyances) Happen!)
Okay, the rooms. My room, was… well, it was a room. I mean, it had all the basics: air conditioning, which was a godsend in the humid weather, a desk to slap your laptop on, and a mini bar (which I emptied faster than you can say "Kingfisher beer"). I loved the blackout curtains because, let’s be honest, I'm a vampire. The bed was comfortable, with extra long bed perfect for my lanky frame. They offered complimentary tea and I felt like a total baller. Air conditioning! Alarm clock! Bathrobes! The essentials!
Now, the things I loved:
- Separate shower/bathtub: Seriously, thank you. I’m not a fan of the splashy shower-in-the-tub situation.
- Satellite/cable channels: Okay, I know I should be exploring the culture, but sometimes you just need some mindless distraction.
- Free bottled water: Hydration is key, people!
Then there were the minor quirks:
- The hair dryer. Fine, it worked. It didn't set my hair on fire. But, you know, generic hotel hair dryer.
- The alarm clock. Okay, this one I hated. The first morning, I was ripped from my sleep by some ear-splitting alarm. Turned out, the settings were so confusing, I hadn't actually gotten rid of the original set alarm.
- Soundproofing: While the walls generally held up their end of the bargain, I definitely heard the lady in the next room’s, very excited conversations with her significant other.
(Dining, Drinking, and Snacking – Food, Glorious Food!)
Okay, this is where Oceanic India truly shines. I’m not even kidding. The food was AMAZING. I spent way too much time at the buffet – Breakfast [buffet], buffet in restaurant - it was a glorious feast. They had everything from Asian breakfast (hello, spicy noodles!), to Western breakfast (hello, bacon!). And the coffee shop did a great job of keeping me caffeinated.
Seriously… the Food.
The restaurants were great. There was an a la carte in restaurant option (fine dining, anyone?), a vegetarian restaurant, and even international cuisine in restaurant, in case you were feeling homesick for a burger. The poolside bar was perfect for a quick snack and a cold drink, and I may have availed myself of the happy hour more than once. The bottle of water was actually a bonus because Indian tap water is known to be less than ideal, and also, bonus points for the salad in restaurant because that’s the only way I can get my greens when I’m on holiday! I wanted to eat something green! One evening, I decided to eat in my room, and boom, room service [24-hour]. The food was still great, which is always a big plus.
I remember one afternoon specifically. I was lounging by the swimming pool [outdoor], which had a pool with a view. I ordered a cocktail and a plate of… what was it? Chicken Tikka Salad? No…some kind of Indian delight. The wind was blowing, the sun was beaming, the cocktail was potent, and the food… the food transported me to a different dimension. Seriously, it was that good. This trip, I'm not going to lie, was worth it for this dish alone (okay, maybe not).
(Things to Do & Ways to Relax – From Bliss to… Well, Less Bliss!)
Now, the "relaxation" aspect. Honestly, it felt a little hit-or-miss. The spa looked amazing – I mean, spa, spa/sauna, steamroom, sauna - the works! And they had a massage menu that was tempting. But… I never actually made it because I was too busy eating and/or exploring. I did, however, spend a lot of time in the swimming pool, which was lovely (even though I'm apparently not a great swimmer… who knew?). They even had a fitness center, but I'd like to report the only exercising I did was getting food from the buffet to my mouth. The body scrub might have to wait for another time.
(Services & Conveniences – The Little Things That Make a Big Difference!)
They got most of the essentials right: daily housekeeping, laundry service, dry cleaning, luggage storage, and a concierge who actually seemed to know what they were doing. They even had a convenience store for those last-minute forgotten items. Plus, great stuff like Meeting/banquet facilities, indoor venue for special events, and outdoor venue for special events.
(For the Kids – Family Fun!)
I don't have kids, but it seemed like Oceanic India was pretty family/child friendly. They had babysitting service, which is always a plus.
(Getting Around - The Transportation Tango!)
They had airport transfer, thank goodness! The drive from the airport in a crazy Indian city is usually nothing short of terrifying. They also had taxi service and valet parking. Car park [free of charge] was also available.
(My Biggest Issue… the Imperfection!)
Here's the thing – Oceanic India wasn't perfect.
- Room decorations left something to be desired. Kind of generic.
- Couples' room… they didn't actually have one, as far as I could tell.
- I'm not entirely convinced they'd deal with the pets allowed unavailable.
But honestly? These were minor quibbles.
(The Verdict – Dream Getaway? Maybe Not Perfect… But Definitely Worth it!)
Oceanic India: Your Dream Indian Getaway? Okay, maybe a slightly tweaked dream. A dream with a few hiccups, a few minor annoyances, and a whole lot of delicious food! But overall? Yes. Absolutely worth it. The food alone is worth it. The safety measures were reassuring, the staff was generally helpful and friendly, and the location was fantastic for exploring the local area.
**Book It Now! (Here'
Bangkok's BEST Kept Secret: Noursabah Boutique Bed - Unforgettable Luxury Awaits!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's travel itinerary. Forget perfectly polished Instagram posts, we're going real. This is my chaotic, beautiful, and probably slightly disastrous trip to Hotel Oceanic India. Prepare for a whirlwind of spice, sweat, and seriously questionable decisions.
Hotel Oceanic India: The Almost-Perfect (and Sometimes Utterly Bonkers) Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival! And Immediate Regret (Kinda)
- 6:00 AM: Wake up in London, slightly hungover from pre-trip nerves (whoops). Airport chaos ensues. Think toddlers, missing luggage, and the distinct smell of overcooked airplane chicken. Briefly contemplate hiding in the bathroom and calling it a day. Didn't do it.
- 10:00 PM (IST): Finally ARRIVE in Mumbai! (Emphasis on finally because, let's face it, the flight was a 13-hour purgatory). The air hits me like a warm, spicy slap in the face. Taxi arranged, supposedly. We'll see.
- 11:00 PM: Taxi driver is either a saint or a maniac. He weaves through traffic like he's playing a real-life version of Mario Kart. I'm gripping the door handle for dear life. Anecdote: I swear, I saw a cow casually strolling down the highway! Completely unfazed. I, on the other hand, was utterly fazed.
- 11:45 PM: We arrive! Hotel Oceanic! It's… well, it's something. The lobby is grand, or at least grand-ish, with a distinct scent of incense and something I can't quite place – maybe old money and a hint of adventure? The check-in process is slower than molasses in January. Patience is a virtue, they say. I have none.
- 12:30 AM: Finally in my room. It's HUGE. And the view… well, it's a pretty dingy parking lot, but hey, the sheets look clean! I'm already dreaming about a shower and collapsing into bed.
Day 2: Mumbai Mania! (And Maybe a Bit Too Much Spice)
- 8:00 AM: Wake up! The city sounds are incredible. Horns, chatter, the distant clang of a rickshaw… it's sensory overload in the best possible way. I'm starving.
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast at the hotel restaurant. Omg. So much food. I choose the buffet and end up with way too much of everything. Tried the masala dosa; OMG, spicy. My mouth is on fire. Worth it? Absolutely. Quirky observation: The waiter keeps refilling my water glass, which is a godsend right now. He smiles, I smile back… language barrier be damned, we're friends.
- 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM: Exploring Mumbai! We start with the Gateway of India, because, cliché, but hey, it's beautiful! Then, a walk through the Colaba Causeway, a sensory onslaught of vendors selling everything imaginable. Bargaining skills: rusty. Purchases: many. Warning: Don't look at the "designer" bags too closely.
- 2:00 PM: Lunch! Trying street food. The first samosa is a revelation! But the second… well, let's just say my stomach's rumbling in a way that suggests it has opinions. Emotional reaction: I'm both thrilled and slightly terrified. This food is incredible, but my gut feeling is telling me I might regret it later.
- 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundry) – mind blown. Hundreds of men washing clothes by hand. It’s a spectacle that reminds me of how lazy I am. I’m in awe of their dedication..
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at a recommended restaurant. The food is delicious, but the people next to me are the most interesting thing. They are a family and even though I don't understand a word, their laughter is contagious.
- 8:30 PM: Back to the hotel. Exhausted, exhilarated, and already planning tomorrow's adventures… if my stomach behaves.
Day 3: Exploring The Beaches (and Sunburns)
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast! Maybe not the buffet this time… opting for something a little less likely to ignite my insides. Still spicy.
- 10:00 AM: Headed to Juhu beach. The water is questionable, the vendors are relentless, but the vibe is pure Mumbai. People playing cricket, couples holding hands, street food vendors everywhere… it's a party.
- 11:00 AM: Attempting to sit on the beach to relax only to be swarmed by street vendors selling everything from massages to questionable jewelry.
- 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Beach-side lunch. Fresh seafood!
- 3:00 PM: Realize I've forgotten sunscreen. Emotional Reaction: Panic. My skin is now the color of a cooked lobster.
- 4:00 PM: Back to the Hotel to take a shower and apply some aloe vera.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at a cool restaurant with a view of the city. The view is great, but the ambiance is even better.
Day 4: The Caves & Culture Shock
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast. I’ve learned to love the buffet with a spoon full of caution.
- 10:00 AM: The Elephanta Caves! Hopped on the ferry, and it was… interesting. The caves themselves are incredible. The carvings! The history! I was genuinely moved. Rambling: I spent hours staring at the statues and marveled at the craftsmanship, the sheer scale of it all… and then I realized I’d probably forgotten the context.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch near the caves… more spicy food. I think I've officially developed a tolerance, maybe even a craving…
- 3:00 PM: Wandering around more local neighborhoods… getting delightfully lost.
- 5:00 PM: Found a beautiful market with tons of textiles and other goods. Messier Structure: I'm starting to feel like I belong a bit, even though I stick out like a sore thumb. This place is slowly getting under my skin.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner. Some nice drinks.
- 8:00 PM: Back to the hotel. I'm almost sad this day is over. I feel that this trip is getting more exciting.
Day 5: Oops, That Spicy Food Again
- 9:00 AM: Uh oh. My stomach is not happy. Emotional Reaction: Regret! I knew I should have skipped that second samosa.
- All Day: Rest and recover. Ordered room service. I'm now best friends with the hotel's resident doctor.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner. Something simple.
- 8:00 PM: Early night and a new found respect for my digestive system.
Day 6: Last Day and Sadness
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast! This time, I'm playing it safe.
- 10:00 AM: Last-minute souvenir shopping.
- 12:00 PM: Last lunch
- 1:00 PM: Head back to the hotel
- 2:00 PM: Ready to head to the airport and say goodbye to Hotel Oceanic, India. I am surprised that I am already sad to leave.
- 3:00 PM: Airport.
Overall Verdict:
This trip has been a glorious, messy, spicy, and utterly unforgettable adventure. The food was amazing (even when it betrayed me), the people were kind, and the chaos… well, the chaos was part of the charm. Will I be back? Absolutely. But next time, I'm bringing a whole pharmacy's worth of stomach medication!
P.S. Don't even get me started on the rickshaws…
Escape to Paradise: Chiang Khan's Hidden Camp Awaits!
Oceanic India: Your Dream Indian Getaway Awaits? (Don't Ask Me, I've Been!)
So, Oceanic India... What *is* it, exactly? Sounds like a fancy Bollywood movie.
Look, I'm no travel guru, but I've been there. I’ve sweated there. I've eaten so much curry I thought I *became* curry. So take my advice with a grain of (Indian) salt. Or maybe a whole handful.
Is it safe? I heard about… things.
But honestly? I felt safer in most parts of Oceanic India than I do walking alone at night in my own neighborhood. The locals are generally incredibly welcoming and helpful. Just use common sense. Don't flaunt your wealth, be aware of your surroundings, and trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. Also, learn a few basic Hindi phrases. It's a lifesaver. Even a clumsy "Namaste!" will get you far.
Oh, and another thing: the traffic. Dear god, the traffic. Bikes zooming, cars honking… It's organized chaos. Take a deep breath, hold on tight, and try not to close your eyes. You'll survive! Maybe.
Best time to go? (And when should I absolutely AVOID?)
Avoid the monsoon season like the plague, generally June to September. I made that mistake *once*. Picture this: me, soaked to the bone, fighting off leeches the size of my thumb, and realizing my beachfront bungalow was basically a swimming pool. Not ideal. Also, it can be *really* hot from April–May, before the monsoons hit, it can be brutal. Think of it as the world's largest sauna.
What about the food? I'm a foodie, but I'm also… skittish.
But, the skittishness… I get it. "Delhi Belly" is a thing. Here's what I do:
- Street food: Depends on you. If you're brave, go for it! Just look for busy stalls where the food is cooked fresh.
- Water: Stick to bottled water. Seriously. Don’t even think about the tap.
- Spice Level: Tell them "not too spicy" (or even better, "medium") to avoid a fiery experience.
- Go with your Gut: If a place looks dodgy or makes you feel uneasy, leave. There are plenty of other options.
Tell me more about Goa!
Goa is a good starting point because there's a lot of choice and accessibility:
- Beaches: North Goa is known for its hectic beaches and nightlife, while South Goa is more... chill. I spend a lot of my time in South Goa.
- Food: Goan cuisine is amazing! Seafood, Vindaloo (be warned!), and the legendary Goan Fish Curry. Just… wow.
- Vibes: It's a blend of Indian and Portuguese influences - remnants from the colonial era.
And, the best thing about Goa? The people. The Goans are generally so friendly, easy-going, and welcoming. I've made some of my best friends there! But let's be honest, some parts of Goa have become really touristy. So, do your research, and find the hidden gems. Trust me, they're there.
And the Andamans? I've heard they're like paradise. True?
I’ve been meaning to go back to the Andamans for a while now, I can still smell the sea air, feel the sand between my toes! The pristine beaches, the crystal-clear water, the coral reefs teeming with fish... it's breathtaking. It's a bit more remote and harder to get to than Goa, but totally worth it.
I spent days just snorkeling, swimming, and being utterly amazed. I got up close and personal with a sea turtle (it was incredible!), explored remote islands, and just completely switched off. If you're looking for a true escape, the Andamans are your place. Just be prepared for a bit of a journey to get there. But that’s part of the adventure, right?
What should I pack? (Besides my passport and a sense of adventure, obviously.)
- Light, breathable clothing: Cotton, linen... Avoid anything that clings. It's hot and humid.
- Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses: Protect yourself! I got a nasty sunburn once. Never again.
- Insect repellent: Mosquitoes are a thing.Hotel Whisperer
