Chennai, Nov 6 (IANS): World chess title contender Magnus Carlsen, who checked into Taj-Fisherman's Cove beach resort here, spent most of his time by the pool side and played tennis and badminton, said a resort official Wednesday.

"He was at our property Nov 4-6. Carlsen spent most of his time relaxing by the poolside, enjoying a game of volleyball on the beach as well as tennis and badminton," the hotel official told IANS preferring anonymity.

The official added that Carlsen prefers his food to be medium spicy.

"He particularly relished spaghetti aglio olio with bacon, whole wheat croissants and cheese omelette with green chillies, while indulging in fresh mango juice during his stay," the official said.

Carlsen was served specially curated meals from the all-day diner Seagull and the Mediterranean specialty cuisine restaurant - Upper Deck, the official added.

The official said three premium indulgence sea view cottages and one superior charm room were booked by Carlsen and his eight-member team that included family personal chef and security personnel.

Carlsen is challenging the reigning world chess champion Viswanathan Anand. The first match is slated Nov 9 here.