Introduction

Grace Palace Hotel in Velankanni is a 2-star hotel located just 500 meters from the Velankanni Church. The hotel’s prime location and budget-friendly accommodations make it a popular choice for visitors. However, experiences from various guests reveal a mixed bag of pros and cons that potential guests should be aware of.

Booking

From one of my relative’s recommendations, I booked a room by phone call and paid Rs. 1000 in advance. However, after reading the reviews, I wanted to cancel the booking. The response I got was that the amount is not refundable. I lost a thousand rupees by believing my relative’s words. So don’t pay any advance to this hotel and don’t believe their words.

Rooms

Grace Palace offers multiple types of decent rooms that would fit your budget, with both AC and non-AC options available. The terrace provides a view towards the church. However, the rooms are small and not clean. The bathroom doors cannot be locked properly, and the blankets are only fit for kids. Bed sheets are not changed, sofas are full of stains, and spider webs are all over the rooms and toilets. Torn dirty bedsheets, filthy bathrooms, and untidy rooms have been common complaints.

Staff & Service

The main staff is the only one found literate enough and quite open and friendly. However, the cleaning staff would blindly barge into the room without knocking or informing, raising privacy concerns. The staff’s behavior is often reported as impolite and lazy. Worst behavior, no response to complaints, and ignoring guests are common issues.

Food

The hotel has a kitchen where one can cook when with family or friends, which could save money from eating out. They have firewood stoves and gas stoves available for rent. However, no food, soaps, or towels are provided by the hotel. There are good vegetarian and non-vegetarian hotels nearby for those who prefer eating out.

Pros

• Location: Grace Palace is easily accessible from the church and beach.
• Safety: The hotel is in a safe location with security cameras available.
• Kitchen Facility: Available for self-cooking.
• Customer Service: Good customer service and clean rooms near the church.
• Parking: Car parking is available, though space is limited.

Cons

• Cleanliness: Very untidy place with zero hygiene maintained.
• Service: No daily cleaning service, staff behavior is often poor, and there is no room service to clean your rooms.
• Amenities: No toiletries, blanket, AC remote, or proper cleaning in restrooms. Hot water is only available if the sun is out due to a solar water heater.
• Privacy: Staff barge into rooms without knocking.
• Payment Issues: They only accept cash, and there is no UPI or card machine available.
• Maintenance: AC and heaters often do not work, and rooms are dusty.

FAQ

Q: Is there a daily cleaning service?

A: No, cleaning is only done once before your arrival.

Q: Are AC rooms available?

A: Yes, but you have to remind the manager to turn it on.

Q: Is the kitchen facility available?

A: Yes, but it has poor maintenance and there are extra charges for usage.

Q: How is the staff behavior?

A: The staff’s behavior is often reported as impolite and unresponsive.

Q: Are there any parking facilities?

A: Yes, car parking is available but space is limited.

Conclusion

Grace Palace Hotel in Velankanni offers a budget-friendly option with a great location near the church. However, cleanliness and service are major issues that need improvement. If you are looking for a short stay and can overlook the drawbacks, it might be a decent option. Otherwise, it might be worth exploring other hotels in the area to avoid potential disappointments.