It was very unfortunate to take Paulo travels to return from Goa, after enjoying 4 days there. It made all the good memories vanish, after boarding into the bus. There is nothing good about this travel company.
The travel agency
-
I approached their office in Bangalore. It was written on a big banner
’Non A/C Seater Rs 400 from Goa-Bangalore one way trip". After confirming the ticket, the operator said that fares have been revised, and it costs 500/= and not 400. But I could see clearly on the board that the rates are applicable from 01-Oct-07. I argued, but the operatory concluded saying it is his fate to have that banner on the wall. This was the first sign of the evil.
The bus was supposed to start at 18:30. However, it was 18:45 and we were still waiting. It is a long journey and 15-30 mins delay is not a problem. There was a passenger, who requested the operator to wait for 10 more minutes as a couple of his co-passengers were still on their way. But the reply was very rude - and the bus left that passenger by 18:50. They did not even made a call to those passengers - I felt they could have picked them from their way if it is getting too late. One should think that Paulo travels are very strict as far as time is concerned. But let me explain what happened later on.
Confusion prevailed all the way at every boarding point. They issued non-a/c seat to a passenger who paid for a/c(This vehicle has two compartments - for a/ and non a/c). Then, there was a lady whose seat was allocated to someone else. Confusion prevailed for half an hour. They picked local passengers from somewhere, leading to delay in journey. There was delay at most of the boarding points. They could not wait for 10 mins at goa for passengers with reservation, but could accommodate un-reserved local passengers.
State of the vehicle
-
I was disappointed to see the the vehicle condition - was pathetic. They used gunny bag near the door, as door mat. Not only my seat, most of the seats were dirty and shaking. Above all, cockroaches were rallying around. The arm rest was broken and the cushion was eaten away. The side strip on the window side was plucked, making noise. The bus engine was very very noisy, believe me, it made me sick.
Finally we reached Bangalore around 11:00. My humble request to all reader - please avoid this. A train sleeper class costs you half the amount(Rs 250).