Introduction
AYA Lodge, located a mere 500 meters from Velankanni Church, is a two-star hotel in the Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu. Known for its budget-friendly accommodations and proximity to the church, this lodge offers a variety of room types, including both AC and non-AC options. Despite its potential, guests’ experiences at AYA Lodge have been mixed, reflecting both the positives and negatives of staying at this property.
Pros
Convenient Location:
The hotel is easily accessible from the church and beach, making it a convenient choice for pilgrims and tourists. Additionally, it is situated near a variety of shops, including grocery stores, juice bars, hotels, and meat stalls.
Budget-Friendly:
The lodge offers a range of rooms that cater to different budget levels. Guests have appreciated the affordability, especially the non-AC rooms on the ground floor, which are available at INR 700, and family rooms priced at INR 1500.
Decent Facilities:
AYA Lodge provides a kitchen where guests can cook their own meals, which can be cost-saving for families or groups. Both firewood and gas stoves are available, with rental costs specified for their use. The terrace offers a view towards the church, adding to the appeal of the property.
Staff and Security:
Some guests have noted that the staff is generally good and friendly. The location is safe, with security cameras ensuring added protection. Guests also appreciated the honest staff, especially when one guest’s lost wallet was returned by the hotel team.
Cons
Lack of Maintenance:
The hotel suffers from a significant lack of maintenance. Guests have reported untidy rooms, with issues such as dirty bedsheets, filthy bathrooms, and dusty furniture. The lack of regular cleaning services is a major downside, with rooms cleaned only upon arrival and not during the stay unless specifically requested.
Privacy Concerns:
Several guests have expressed discomfort with the staff’s habit of entering rooms without knocking or informing, which raises serious privacy concerns. This practice is particularly unsettling for visitors from cities like Bangalore who are not accustomed to such behavior.
Poor Customer Service:
The staff’s behavior has been a point of contention. Some guests found the staff to be impolite and lazy in performing their duties. Complaints about non-functional ACs, heaters, and the lack of room service have been common. The reception staff’s insistence on cash payments and reluctance to provide online payment options have also been criticized.
Inadequate Amenities:
Basic amenities such as soaps, towels, and food are not provided. Guests have complained about non-functional TVs, insufficient blankets, and the absence of hot water during non-sunny hours due to reliance on solar heaters. The lack of an intercom to contact the reception further adds to the inconvenience.
FAQ
Q: Is AYA Lodge close to Velankanni Church?
A: Yes, AYA Lodge is located just 500 meters from Velankanni Church, making it an ideal choice for pilgrims.
Q: Are there any cooking facilities available?
A: Yes, the lodge has a kitchen with firewood and gas stoves available for rent, allowing guests to cook their own meals.
Q: Does the hotel provide cleaning services?
A: The rooms are cleaned only before arrival, and regular cleaning services during the stay are not provided unless specifically requested.
Q: How are the staff at AYA Lodge?
A: Guest experiences with the staff have been mixed. While some have found them friendly and helpful, others have reported impolite and lazy behavior.
Q: What are the room rates at AYA Lodge?
A: Non-AC ground floor rooms are priced at INR 700, while family rooms on the second floor cost INR 1500.
Conclusion
AYA Lodge offers a budget-friendly option for travelers visiting Velankanni, with the advantage of a prime location near the church. However, the lack of maintenance, poor customer service, and privacy issues significantly detract from the overall experience. While it might be suitable for a short stay, particularly for those on a tight budget, prospective guests should be aware of the potential drawbacks. For those seeking a more comfortable and hassle-free experience, exploring other accommodation options in the area might be advisable.
