Hi



I can not find a villa with its own pool around the calangute area. I am thinking to rent a villa without a pool and was wondering if you can use hotel pools without much hassel. I don't mind paying for the use of the facilities.



What is the norm in Goa? are the hotels OK with non-guests using the pools?



Thanks

cantona07 the sea is wonderful and warm although a little rough for my taste but still cooling , if you visit a hotel most are prepared to ignore you are not a guest if you buy drinks or similiar, if queried offer to pay - the worst we were asked for and refused to pay for was the Citada Goa Dona Paula 9 years ago and they wanted 200/- and the beach was stinking but no way would we give that much obviously most of the guests felt the same and needed to use the pool!

We stay in Baga/calangute area - not been in a swimming pool for 5 years!! The sea is excellent. Get down to the beach its miles better than sitting in a hotel by a pool! You will find most poeple on the beach!

Most hotels are now becoming much stricter with regard to non-residents using their pool. They have realised they can make extra money! Most hotels will allow you to use their pool but will charge approx Rs100 per day - (if you use the pool for only a few hours you still have to pay the full amount). They will ask for your room number when you order drinks and, yes, they will check. Best way is to just walk in, speak to one of the waiters, they will keep quiet for just a few rupees tip when you leave.

Yes, the sea is very warm but do be careful of the strong current along Calangute/Candolim beaches. It is great when the waves are breaking, but not so great when you get dragged under with the current. If you are not a strong swimmer, it is best to stay to say in shallow water when the waves are high or the. tide is changing



Please don't be put off by this information, mostly the sea is very calm but I do think that tourists should be aware of this and am always surprised that this is not mentioned by tour operators.



Also, did you know that Goa is a NON SMOKING STATE?