Wayanad's Lavender Dream: Unwind at This Exquisite Resort (India)
Wayanad's Lavender Dream: My Honest, Flawed, and Possibly Slightly Over-the-Top Review (Plus, a Booking Pitch!)
Okay, folks, let’s talk Lavender Dream in Wayanad, India. Let’s be honest, I approach these things with a healthy dose of skepticism. "Exquisite Resort," they say. "Unwind," they beckon. My brain is already prepping for the inevitable: overpriced water, a view of a parking lot instead of the promised misty mountains. But buckle up, because this… this was different. Prepare for a brain dump; my thoughts on Wayanad's Lavender Dream.
First things first: Accessibility. Okay, so they say it’s got facilities for disabled guests. I didn’t specifically test this (though, let’s be honest, my clumsy self could easily qualify for that category!), but I did see an elevator. No treacherous staircases of doom! Getting around in Wayanad itself is another beast altogether, but within the resort, things seemed promising.
Cleanliness & Safety: The Very Important Stuff
Right, so, post-Covid world, this is key. And Lavender Dream? They actually get it. Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, rooms sanitized between stays. I saw them doing it! Actually doing it! (I'm a bit of germaphobe so it really helped me relax!) They also had hand sanitizer stationed everywhere. Now, I'm not sure if they were using professional-grade sanitizing services (the wording on these things, eh?) but let's just say it felt a whole lot cleaner than my kitchen at home. They also had breakfast in room (more about this later), and safe dining setup, with sanitized kitchen and tableware items. HUGE plus.
They also had a doctor/nurse on call and a first aid kit, which is always reassuring, especially when you're a klutz like me. Plus CCTV in common areas. Safety is a big win.
Internet and Tech (Because #MillennialProblems)
Okay, so Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!, and it actually worked. Seriously, no buffering dramas while I tried to Instagram my perfectly arranged (and possibly overdressed) breakfast. They also have Internet [LAN] which I didn't use, but it's there for those who need it. This is a massive plus. Internet Services are available.
The Rooms: My Personal Sanctuary (with a few minor quibbles)
Alright, the rooms. Let's get into this. I had a non-smoking room, which is always a win for a non-smoker like myself. Air conditioning? Check. Blackout curtains? Yes, please! I need my beauty sleep. They also have bathrobes and slippers which give it this luxurious vibe. Complimentary tea, free bottled water. And, importantly… Wi-Fi [free]. See?!
The mini bar was stocked, which, you know, is always tempting. They had a desk, however, I preferred to lounge on the incredibly large sofa. Daily housekeeping? My bed was made every day, which is something I never do myself at home – so that was a great start to the day.
Now for the slightly less perfect bits. There was a mirror that could be better positioned. The alarm clock was a bit basic. And I'm not sure what the bathroom phone was for, but probably to call for more bathrobes?
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: My Stomach’s Happy Place
Okay, let's talk food. This is important, people. I’m a sucker for a good breakfast, and they offer breakfast [buffet], and breakfast in room. I spent the whole morning going back and forth between the Asian breakfast, the Western breakfast (there was even a proper bacon!), and trying everything. It was a beautiful, glorious, carb-fueled experience. I'm not going to lie, the coffee/tea in restaurant was good, and I could get my caffeine fix! And oh, the desserts in restaurant …don’t even get me started.
Other things they had: Restaurants, a poolside bar, a la carte in restaurant, a snack bar, a vegetarian restaurant, room service [24-hour]. They also had a bar so you can get that cocktail which is a big deal. I'm not sure what all the other options were, but it's safe to say there's something for everyone here.
Things to Do: Relaxation Nirvana (with a side of "OMG, I’m Actually Relaxing!")
Okay, so, this is where Lavender Dream really shines. The Spa. Oh. Em. Gee. Seriously. Prepare to melt.
They had a massive swimming pool [outdoor], but I never used it (it was a bit nippy), but I did spend a LOT of time at the Pool with view. You know, that whole "infinity pool overlooking the misty mountains" cliché? It was real, and it was amazing.
But the spa! The Sauna, the Steamroom, the Foot bath, the Massage… I had a Body scrub and a Body wrap and I think I actually levitated for a bit. Okay, maybe not, but I emerged feeling like a brand new, slightly smoother, version of myself. I was so relaxed, I forgot to check my phone (blasphemy, I know!).
And if you actually want to be active, they had a fitness center and a gym/fitness. But, honestly, the thought of doing exercise while simultaneously being in such a serene place was…well, it didn’t appeal to me.
Services and Conveniences: Because Life is Easier When Someone Else Does It
They have everything! Concierge, Laundry service, Dry cleaning, Room service [24-hour]. Luggage storage. You name it, they probably have it. Daily housekeeping meant my room was always tidy. Cash withdrawal is available, in case you're not a fan of contactless payments. Food delivery is available for those days when you don't want to leave your room.
There’s also a gift/souvenir shop, in case you forgot to buy something that says, “I had a fantastic time and made everyone at home jealous.”
For the Kids (and those who are Kid-Adjacent)
I didn’t have kids with me, but they seem pretty geared for families. They have babysitting service, kids facilities, and they're definitely family/child friendly.
Getting Around (Because Wayanad is Huge!)
They have Airport transfer, which is a LIFESAVER. Trust me. Long drives in India can be…an experience. They also offer Car park [free of charge] and Taxi service which is convenient.
In Search of… "Rooms with a View?"
Okay, so, the views. Yes, the marketing photos do show the mountains. But it's a big place and my room… well, my view was good, but not the best. Maybe request a room with a view specifically when you book – because trust me, you want it.
The Quirks & Imperfections: Because Nobody’s Perfect (Including Me)
Look, no place is perfect. (Especially not my life!) Some of the common areas felt a little…sterile design-wise. The lighting in the restaurant could be a bit brighter. But that's me nitpicking.
The Verdict: Booking is a MUST!
Okay, so, after all my rambling, here’s the deal. Wayanad’s Lavender Dream is a genuinely lovely place. It’s clean, safe, the spa is heavenly, the food is delicious, and the staff are genuinely friendly and helpful. It’s the kind of place where you can actually unwind and forget about the stresses of everyday life.
My Emotional Reaction (and a booking pitch):
I went in skeptical, and I left feeling… well, happy. Genuinely happy and relaxed. It's a feeling I don't get often enough! The mountains, the spa, the food, the utter peace and quiet… It’s a perfect escape. This is one of those places where you can actually recharge.
Ready to Escape? Book Your Wayanad Lavender Dream Getaway NOW!
Here’s the deal: I've given you the inside scoop. You've heard the good, the bad, and the slightly neurotic. You have the information! Now, book your stay. Seriously. Take advantage of their current offer! It will be an experience that you will surely cherish.
This is a place that will not only help you clear your head, recharge your batteries but also make you feel comfortable and safe. You deserve it.
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Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because you're about to embark on a slightly manic, totally unfiltered, and hopefully hilarious journey to the Lavender Resort in Wayanad, India. Forget those pristine, perfectly-formatted itineraries. This is real life, people! Brace yourselves.
Day 1: Arrival & Mild Panic (plus, a rogue mosquito)
- Morning (ish) - Kozhikode Airport & The Great Taxi Negotiation: Landed in Kozhikode. The humidity hit me like a slap in the face. Instantly, I regretted the extra layer I wore. Let the bargaining begin! The taxi drivers are like seasoned poker players – every glance, every shrug, a negotiation tactic. Finally settled on a price that felt slightly extortionate but also, let's be honest, fair. I was too hot and tired to argue properly.
- Afternoon - The Scenic, Slightly Terrifying Drive: The drive up to Wayanad. Oh. Em. Gee. Narrow roads, hairpin turns, and trucks that seem to think they own the entire lane. Clutching the seat, I swear I aged ten years in the first hour. But the view? Stunning. Lush green hills, rice paddies shimmering like jewels. The camera couldn't possibly capture the sheer, heart-stopping beauty.
- Afternoon (Late) - Lavender Resort – Finally! And… a Mosquito: Arrived at Lavender. The place is gorgeous. The air smells like… well, lavender, obviously. And spices. And maybe a hint of something… jungle-y? Checked into the room (which, thankfully, isn't cramped. I loathe cramped.) Unpacked, and… BZZZZZZZZZZZZ! A mosquito. Seriously? I immediately declared war. Sprayed myself with whatever repellent I had. Swatted at thin air. Still, the little demon won. It got me. I can already feel the itch.
- Evening - Dinner & The Agony of Choice: Dinner at the resort restaurant. So. Many. Choices. My brain short-circuited. I ended up ordering something vaguely resembling "Chicken Curry with Rice." It was delicious, and I devoured it like a person who hadn't eaten in days. Followed by a mango smoothie. Because, you know, vacation. I spent an hour on the balcony, listening to the chirping symphony of the jungle. Absolute bliss. Until another bug buzzed near my ear. Nightmare on repeat.
Day 2: Mulling Over the Jungle (and my questionable yoga skills)
- Morning - Sunrise Yoga Attempt (laughable): Promised myself I'd embrace the "wellness" aspect of this trip. Found the yoga area. The resident yoga instructor is a woman. She's got the grace of a swan. I… not so much. I spent most of the time wobbling around, trying to avoid the mosquitos, and internally screaming. My flexibility is questionable. My balance is even worse. By the end, I was sweating and feeling utterly ridiculous. But hey, I showed up! (And the view was spectacular).
- Morning (Late) - Exploring the Waterfall (or, rather, the attempt to explore the waterfall): The resort had a trek planned to the waterfall. I'm not really a "trekker," though I am adventurous. It started off well. We walked through the jungle, sunlight dappling through the leaves. Exotic birds chirped, and the air smelled of wet earth and spice. Then the path got…well, let's just say, less "path" and more "precarious scramble across slippery rocks." I'm pretty sure I saw a snake. My internal dialogue consisted of, "Don't look down. Don't slip. Don't scream." The waterfall itself was amazing. The water was freezing. I dipped my toes in and immediately screamed.
- Afternoon - The Great Coffee Heist: Someone forgot to put coffee supplies in my room. A crisis!! I had to brave the restaurant (again) to procure a vital caffeine fix. Managed to get the coffee. Success. The small victories count, right?
- Afternoon (Late) - Afternoon Nap & Existential Dread (mixed): The humidity has started to get to me. The mosquito bites itch. The yoga embarrassment still haunts me. I decided to take a nap. Woke up feeling slightly disoriented. Wondered what I was doing with my life. Then I ordered room service (more mango smoothie!).
Day 3: The Spice Plantation & An Overwhelming Aroma (and my inability to handle spice)
- Morning - Spice Plantation Nirvana (and sneezing fits): Went on a tour of the spice plantation. Saffron, cardamom, cloves, you name it they had it. It was sensory overload in the best way possible. The smells were incredible. The smells were also… powerful. I spent half the time sneezing. The guide was lovely, explaining all sorts of fascinating things about the spices. I tried to take notes, but my pen kept getting covered in pollen.
- Afternoon - Spice Plantation Food! (aka My Mouth is On Fire): Lunch at the spice plantation. They served us Kerala-style dishes, and the aromas were divine. Then I took a bite of something. Oh. My. GOD. The spice level! I am not, and I repeat, not good with spicy food. Tears streamed down my face. I drank about three glasses of water. The waiter looked at me with pity. I managed to eat some rice and yogurt, which helped. Barely.
- Afternoon (Late) - Raving About the Waterfall (again, and again, and again): Back at the resort, I spent a ridiculous amount of time talking about the waterfall. To anyone who would listen. To the staff. To the other guests. I am obsessed. The sheer force of the water, the power of nature, the fact that I somehow survived the trek… it's just… it was an experience, okay?
- Evening - Stargazing (and the realization that I am, in fact, still a kid): The resort had a stargazing session set up. I saw the milky way. It was breathtaking. I felt a sense of childlike wonder. I felt small and insignificant in a good way. The feeling lasted for about five minutes, then I got hungry.
Day 4: Departure & The Bitterweet Goodbye (plus, the souvenir dilemma)
- Morning - Last Glance, Last Breath: Woke up with a sense of melancholy. My last day in paradise, The air felt different, cleaner. Spent the morning wandering around the resort. Breathing it in, letting it seep into my skin.
- Afternoon - Shopping for Souvenirs (or, the art of procrastination): The souvenir shop! Panic set in. What to buy? For whom? I bought a tiny elephant statue that I'll probably regret later, a few spices I'll never use, and a silk scarf that's possibly the most beautiful thing I've ever seen.
- Afternoon (Late) - The Long Goodbye: Sadly, it's time to head back to Kozhikode. The drive was, thankfully, uneventful this time. No near-death experiences. Just the beautiful scenery to soak up.
- Evening - Farewell Dinner & The Itch: One last dinner at the resort. Said goodbye to the staff (who were incredibly kind and patient with me). The mosquito bites itch. But, all in all, it has been a magical trip.
Final Thoughts: Wayanad is a place of beauty, adventure, and… mosquitoes. Would I go back? Absolutely. Just… next time, I'm bringing industrial-strength mosquito repellent, a mild-flavored curry cookbook, and some serious yoga lessons. And maybe, just maybe, I'll get to that other waterfall… if I'm brave enough.
Escape to Bliss: Shree Krishna Hotels, Amritsar's Jewel
Wayanad's Lavender Dream: Should You REALLY Dream Here?! (FAQ - Because Let's Be Real, Planning Is Hard!)
Okay, Seriously, Is Lavender Dream Worth The Hype? Everyone's Always Blabbing About "Instagrammable Views"...
Alright, alright, let's cut the crap. Is Lavender Dream...well, *dreamy*? Look, the pictures? Stunning. The reality? Mostly. I went with my sister, which immediately ups the awkwardness factor of any vacation, by the way. "Instagrammable views" are a thing, yes. The rolling hills, the little cottages, the fact that EVERYTHING smells faintly of lavender (bliss in a bottle, honestly)... it's visually pleasing. But here's the *real* tea: the first night, we got a room facing… well, let’s just say it wasn't the "dream view." More like a slightly overgrown bush with a vaguely grumpy-looking cow in the distance. My sister, bless her, immediately started channeling her inner Karen about the lack of "vistas." (Spoiler alert: they sorted it, thank god!) So, worth the hype? Kinda. Manage your expectations beyond the perfectly filtered photos. And maybe bring a portable fan – Wayanad heat can get… enthusiastic.
What Amenities Can I Actually Expect At Lavender Dream? (Besides, You Know, Lavender-Scented Dreams?)
Okay, so the basics. They have a pool. It’s… fine. Clean, but nothing to write home about, unless you're writing a strongly worded letter about the lack of pool floats (I, unfortunately, did not bring one, and regretted it). They have a restaurant. The food is… hit or miss. Some dishes were *divine*. Others? Well, let’s just say I developed a newfound respect for instant noodles. Breakfast is included, which is a huge plus. Free Wi-Fi, which is essential for, you know, sharing your "dreamy" photos. (Priorities!). They also have a spa. I didn’t get a chance to use it, because, um, let's just say my sister hogged it. Something about "needing a proper massage after *that* cow incident." Don't judge. There might be a bonfire in the evening. Check the schedule. It’s worth it for the Instagram content, at least.
How's the Food? Because Hangry Is a Real Thing. (And Will I Starve?)
Food! The eternal question! Look, as I mentioned, it’s… variable. Breakfast is generally solid. The dosas were pretty good. Lunch and dinner... it's a gamble. Some nights, the chef absolutely nails it. We had this amazing Kerala fish curry one night, and I wanted to, like, hug the chef. Other nights... well, the chicken was a bit, shall we say, *challenging*. They have a menu, but don’t be afraid to ask about off-menu options, particularly if you're vegetarian. And for god’s sake, pack some snacks. Just in case. Because hangry is a beast, and Wayanad is not exactly famous for its 24-hour convenience stores. Trust me, the memory of me desperately scavenging for a biscuit in the middle of the night still haunts me.
What's the Vibe? Romantic Getaway? Family Fun? Solo Retreat? (Basically, Will I Feel Awkward?)
Ah, the vibe! This is important. Lavender Dream definitely leans towards the romantic end, I think. Lots of couples, maybe a few families with well-behaved children. Solo travel? Possible, but you might feel a bit… alone. I was there with my sister, which, as I mentioned, is a unique category of travel. We oscillated between moments of pure joy and epic sibling arguments over the remote control. So, if you're going solo, be prepared to entertain yourself. Bring a good book, or plan to spend a lot of time staring dramatically at the "dream views." If you're a couple, embrace the romance! Hold hands, whisper sweet nothings, and try not to squabble over who gets the last dosa (speaking from experience here). If you're with family... good luck. Seriously. Pack extra patience. And maybe a few anti-stress pills.
Are There Any Actual ACTIVITIES? Or Just Lounging Around Looking Dreamy? (I'm Not Built for Lounging.)
Activities! Yes! There are things to do *besides* staring at the lavender fields (which, let’s be honest, is a perfectly valid activity). They can arrange for treks in the surrounding hills. Which, I must admit, I skipped. My sister, being the adventurous type, went. She came back covered in mud and buzzing with excitement. Me? I was perfectly content reading my book by the... the not-so-dreamy-bush. They can also arrange visits to local spice plantations. That's interesting. You can learn about the spices, and buy some to take home. There’s also a nearby waterfall. I hear it's beautiful. I, however, preferred the pool. The point is, there's stuff to do if you're the outdoorsy type. If you're not... well, embrace the lounging! (Or, like me, find a nice, comfortable spot to read and avoid the mud.)
Okay But... What If Something Goes Wrong? What's The Service Like? Will They Actually HELP?
Service... okay, this is where things get a little... *Indian*. (In the truest, most affectionate sense!) The staff are generally incredibly sweet and helpful. They're all smiles. They'll try their best. But... sometimes, things take a little longer than you're used to. Like, WAY longer. Remember that initial room issue? It took a few phone calls and a solid hour of passive-aggressive sisterly complaining to get it sorted. But, they did fix it. Eventually. So, bring your patience. Embrace the laid-back pace. And don't be afraid to politely, but persistently, ask for what you need. They want to help, they just might need a little nudge. and an extra cup of tea. It’s honestly part of the charm, in a frustrating but ultimately heartwarming way.
Give Me The Real Lowdown: Would You Go Back? (And Would You Recommend It To Your Worst Enemy?)
Would I go back? Hmm. After the initial room debacle, the slightly hit-or-miss food, and the general feeling that the Wi-Fi was powered by a hamster on a wheel? Yes, probably. Because, despite the imperfections, there's something… *magical* about the place. The lavender, the views (once you get the right room), the peace and quiet (when my sister wasn't yellingTrip Hotel Hub
