I thought I should share some of the experiences we have had (mostly good but some very annoying) during our recent trip to Goa. It is amazing how your irritations that occur before departure are often tempered down following a visit to Goa. We travelled with First Choice and due to the flight timings available we chose to fly from Gatwick Airport, even though we live only an hours drive from Manchester Airport. The flight was scheduled to leave at 15.30 hrs and we were informed by our Taxi Driver that our flight was delayed till 22.00 hrs. We however felt that having got access to the Executive Lounge, we could stretch our feet over there. Therefore, we reached Gatwick at 1 PM. As we were travelling Premium Class we were led to believe that there would be a priority check-in facilities. We were informed that unlike Manchester (where Thomsons/First Choice have Priority Check-in almost through out the day) the check in would open three hours prior to departure. Now the board tells us that the departure is at 00:15 hrs :cry. There was no further information available.

Yet Thompson kept sending me text messages giving me details of all the day trips /excursions that I could take in Goa but failed to inform that the flight was delayed. The text messages started 48 hours prior to departure. We checked our luggage and went to the lounge only to be told it was shutting at 9.00PM and that we were allowed only for 3 hours. I think that is fair but what do we do if the flight was delayed. It so transpired that the inbound 'Mombasa' flight was delayed (which Thompson knew about at 8.00AM) hence the Goa flight was to be delayed. To make matters worse all the restaurants and the shops shut at 9.00PM. There was not one announcement apologising to the travellers nor was there a rep to be seen around. I think it was a very poor Customer Service from First Choice / Thomson and the Gatwick Airport authorities as well. Never again would I travel from Gatwick. No offence to anyone but it is a decision made from personal experience.

On the flight itself the crew were excellent and the onward journey was pleasant. If affordable, I would recommend the Premium Class travel. The seats are comfortable and there is ample leg room. With regards to the Hotel and the resort I have submitted a review in the Hotel Review section. I do not know how to link it with this review. Maybe the moderators would kind enough to do it for me.The one thing I did not mention about the Hotel was the corporate hospitality that took place, was often very noisy in the evenings. It did not last for very long into the night.

The return flight was equally good, only delayed by 30 minutes. I must admit that this was our third visit and we can see improvements in the ímmigaration facilities at Dabolim Airport and they still have to go a long way.

Finally as I mentioned earlier what ever the hassles one may face going, be it in UK Airport or at the other end, everyone has a great time. Cant wait for our return trip in 2012.