94 • LIFESTYLE

Category: Hotels

  • Palmstone Retreat – An idyllic hideaway

    Surrounded by thick rainforests, mesmerizing waterfalls and streams, Kithulgala is a well-loved location among adrenaline junkies. 

    The Oscar-winning 1957 David Lean movie, Bridge on the River Kwai was also filmed at Kithulgala, giving this region more popularity. According to the locals, the remains of the train that blew up in the final scene can still be found in the Maskeliya river.

    Tucked away in a dense rainforest, is a small luxury boutique hotel named Palmstone Retreat where your love for nature and adventure is combined.

    Location 

    From the Kithulgala main town, you will have to travel 6km up the hills to reach Palmstone Retreat. The road to Palmstone Retreat is not the smoothest. But you will be treated to a picture perfect view on your way to the top.

    If your vehicle has less ground clearance it would be pretty challenging to travel on this road. An SUV or a 4×4 with enough ground clearance is strongly recommended.

    [googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d15839.99210051416!2d80.423923!3d7.009514!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0xd5b56557c29b312e!2sPalmstone%20Retreat!5e0!3m2!1sen!2slk!4v1568652991109!5m2!1sen!2slk&w=1000&h=200]

    Accommodation

    At Plamstone Retreat, there are three Chalets. These Chalets are built among thickets, overlooking the lush waterfall. Each Chalet has two connecting suites named as Nelum and Araliya.

    Confusing? Think of it as a simple cottage that has two rooms and can be accessed through a passage. Each Chalet can accommodate up to a maximum of 04 people.

    We stayed in a Nelum suite and this spacious room is equipped with a King Sized bed, a mini couch, a vanity, a 40” Flat screen TV with Satellite TV, a closet, an iron+ironing board, a hairdryer, a safe, a mini-bar and bathroom slippers. The en-suite bathroom is also spacious and has an inbuilt Jacuzzi. Also, there is a private deck built in each suite, facing the gushing stream.

    You will receive the same amenities at Araliya suite except for the inbuilt Jacuzzi. Instead, you will get a private plunge pool as well as a sauna for further relaxation. Palmstone Retreat is a perfect place for you to literally disconnect from the virtual world as there will be no mobile phone coverage. Nonetheless there will be complimentary Wi-Fi in each suite.

    Architecture 

    The Chalets at Palmstone Retreat are built in a way to blend in with the lush greenery at the property. All the suites are spacious and designed in a way to get plenty of sunlight during the day. The wooden floors perfectly match with the walls and the large windows give a fantastic view of the beautiful waterfall. Unfortunately, the suite we stayed in, the view was blocked by the neighbouring rubber trees.

    Due to the bad weather, the pool was not in its best condition. Nevertheless, the staff at Palmstone Retreat did try their best to clean it up but the heavy showers kept them from succeeding.

    Food

    The lobby which also acts as the main dining area is built right by the pool. You can either enjoy your meals at the restaurant or dine in at the deck in your suite. For lunch, we had Sweet Corn Soup followed by Egg Fried Rice with Devilled Chicken and Chopsuey. For dinner, we were served Chicken Minnestroni Soup for a starter. For the main course, we had Caper Marinated Chicken with Cheese on top followed by a decadent serving of Chocolate Mousse.

    Other Activities 

    Palmstone Retreat is built, bordering an enchanting waterfall. Right towards the end of the garden, there is a natural pool that will literally call you for a dive. You can also visit the popular Mannakethi Ella which is located just 30 – 40 minutes away from the Retreat. The hotel staff will accompany you on your trek and will provide you with life jackets upon your request. Apart from these sites, white-water rafting, jungle trekking, bird watching and cave exploration are some of the most popular activities in Kithulgala. The staff at Palmstone Retreat will arrange any of the above-mentioned activities upon your request. A TV lounge, as well as a pool table, are also available if you wish to spend your time indoors.  

    Kithulgala is home to some of the densest rainforests in Sri Lanka. If you are an adrenaline junkie, visit Kithulgala from January to July as the weather in these months favor all the water sports activities such as white water rafting and abseiling. However, if you are looking for a place to rejuvenate and unwind, September would be the best month to visit Palmstone Retreat as the weather would be calmer and inviting. 

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  • Thalduwa Island Villas – A beguiling escape to serenity

    The southern coastline of Sri Lanka is home to some of the most pristine beaches, UNESCO world heritage sites as well as plenty of artistic boutique hotels and villas.

    If you are a traveller who seeks authentic experience in a location that draws inspiration from the region, Ahangama is the place for you. Combined with a surfing – friendly community, Ahangama, in my opinion, is now budding to be the new attraction in the South of Sri Lanka.

    Located away from the sandy bays and on the Goviyapana river, is a ravishing island known as Thalduwa Island – a sanatorium to mangrove, wildlife and a collection of four Dutch colonial villas.

    Location

    Exiting from the Southern Highway and drive down the Galle – Hambantota (A002) road till you reach Thalduwa Road. About 2 kilometres into the Thalduwa Road, you will see a small path that will lead you the collection at Thalduwa Island Villas.

    [googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3968.128167406102!2d80.3786727143419!3d5.977083495670619!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x3ae114bb1f67af1f%3A0x46aad9ca1e2f3d3!2sThalduwa+Island+Villas!5e0!3m2!1sen!2slk!4v1565614733795!5m2!1sen!2slk&w=1000&h=200]

    Accommodation

    Thalduwa Island villas consist of four different villas namely, Karmel Villa, Sisila Villa, Mr T Villa, and Vador Villa. Each villa is inspired by different cultural elements of both the eastern and the western world. Sisila Villa – the largest villa in the collection, reflects modern architectural elements combined with traditional Sri Lankan elements.

    Each room at Karmel Villa is outfitted with either a single or a double bed, a desk, a closet, a large mirror, attached bathrooms and of course a signature style bathtub. The bathtubs are evidently inspired by medieval Sri Lanka and it reminded me of the folklore that described the luxurious baths infused with sandalwood and various other exotic ingredients taken by the ancient kings and queens. Although I must say, for me sleeping next to a bathtub was a little bit eerie.

    The main living room is equipped with a large TV and a DVD Player as well as a large comfy couch that can easily accommodate about 02 – 06 people easily. The kitchenette is also located right at the corner of the living area and it is well equipped with a fully functioning refrigerator and a stove. If you wish to cook a meal or even make some snacks, you will find all the equipment needed, except for the ingredients.

    Architecture

    Karmel Villa which I stayed in, has altogether five rooms out of which two are located facing the mangroves of Goviyapana river. As you enter into this villa, you will be transported to a place where traditional architecture seamlessly blended in with the western culture. The Pavilion which can also be transformed into a dining place is located right by the pool and adjoining it is a wooden deck hidden that will let you enjoy unprecedented beauty of the Goviyapana river.

    The pool is in the perfect size for a private villa. The water does not contain a lot of chlorine which is beneficial for your skin. One thing we noticed about the pool is that during the day, the water absorbs the heat and emits it during the night, making the pool slightly warm.

    One of the important things that I noticed in this living area is the large statue of Lord Buddha. It’s important to note that although these properties are owned by non-Sri Lankans, their respect and love for the Sri Lankan culture were well reflected in each villa. If you stay at Sisila Villa, you will also notice the different retro-style posters that will surely be nostalgic.

    Food

    Without a doubt, the chef at Thalduwa Island Villa knows how to impress their guests with a gastronomical feast. For lunch, we had Paratha with spicy chicken curry and noodles. The paratha was soft and it paired well with the spiciness of the chicken curry. The noodles were flavoursome and had generous portions of chicken pieces mixed. For dinner, we opted for chicken shawarma accompanied with french fries and a fresh garden salad. It was a dish that combined all the right Mediterranean flavours.

    Activities

    The most popular activity in Thalduwa is paddleboarding on Goviyapana river. In my opinion, it’s the best way to explore Thalduwa island and experience the serene beauty of it. If you wish to participate in a yoga session, the staff can arrange you one upon your request. You can simply paddleboard it to the nearby location for Yoga and paddle your way back to the villa. The staff at Thalduwa Island Villas is very helpful and attentive to your needs.

    Visit their website to know more about other sites and places you can visit in the vicinity. What are your thoughts about this gorgeous collection of villas? Let me know in the comments below.

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  • 15 Hotels that are Perfect for a Romantic Day Out

    In Sri Lanka, not all of us have the opportunity to spend a night out with our partner or friends. Here’s a list of places where you can spend the day without breaking your bank.

    All of the selected hotels are located within an hour away from Colombo, allowing you to make the most of your day. You can always use the expressways for a hassle-free drive as well.
    All the rates are either for a base category double room or a twin room, excluding meals unless otherwise specified. The day rooms are usually available from 10 AM to 5 PM but the time may vary depending on the occupancy and hotel policies.

    Hotel Kabalana Galle

    Facing the graceful southern beach, Hotel Kabalana is located at one of the prime surfing areas in Ahangama beach. Inspired by the ambience of ancient Egypt, this hotel provides its guests with a swimming pool, an Ayurveda spa, a bar, a restaurant and a coffee shop.

    Price – 5,000 LKR (Including lunch and evening tea)

    Coco Bay Unawatuna

    This beachfront hotel is located in Unawatuna, a few meters away from the access road to the Southern Express Way. All their rooms are equipped with complimentary WiFi, satellite TV, a minibar, a Jacuzzi or a private pool. The hotel also has an outdoor pool, a restaurant and a pool table as well.

    Price – 7,000 LKR

    Turyaa Kalutara

    Turya is a 5-star hotel owned by the Turyaa Hotels which is located in a 6 acres oceanfront land. It has 2 pools, a sauna, a spa, a gym and a library too. They have five room categories and each has its own private balcony. There are five restaurants and a coffee shop in Turyaa.

    Price – 8,300 LKR

    Timeless Villa

    Timeless Villa is a small boutique hotel located in Ahangama. It has altogether 05 sea view rooms and a standard air-conditioned room is equipped with a mini bar, satellite TV, hot water facility and WiFi. They also have their own restaurant but you can opt for dining in.

    Price – 8,500 LKR

    Camelot Beach Hotel

    Located in the Portutota Road – Negombo, Camelot Hotel is the perfect spot for you to relax and unwind. The hotel offers you a restaurant with two bars and selected rooms with private balconies.

    Price – 10,000 LKR (including lunch)

    Yara Galle Fort

    Yara Galle Fort Hotel is located in the ever so popular Galle Fort. Although there’s no pool in this hotel, the interior and amenities will remind you of the colonial times. This hotel includes 14 luxury rooms with free WiFi, a restaurant and a coffee shop.

    Price – 10,000 LKR

    The Fortress Resort and Spa

    Another unique property located in the southern coast of Sri Lanka is the Fortress Resort & Spa. This luxury boutique hotel has a very large pool, a spa, three restaurants including a special seafood restaurant and a tea lounge. For a day, their rates include, access to the pool access, two cocktails, lunch, WiFi and reserved sun-bed for each.

    Price – 11,000 LKR

    Villa Thawthisa

    This luxury boutique hotel is located in the Unawatuna peninsula. The famous Japanese Peace Temple is just 600 meters away from this property. It has two ocean facing outdoor pools, all day restaurant and a fitness centre. All rooms are available with free WiFi. They also have rooms with private pools as well.

    Price – 12,000 LKR

    Club Waskaduwa Resort & Spa

    Located in Waskaduwa, this property is just one hour drive from Colombo. It has an outdoor pool, all-day restaurant, a spa and a bar. Their rather large garden is the perfect setting for glorious sunsets.

    Price – 13,000 LKR (including lunch for two)

    Arie Lagoon

    Arie Lagoon is another one of my favourite properties in Negombo. Located in between the ocean and the lagoon this hotel has two large pools, two restaurants, three bars, a spa and a gym. Also on demand, they will arrange your activities such as cycling and water sports. They have five different room categories including Premier Deluxe with Plunge Pool.

    Price – 13,000 LKR (Including welcome drink, lunch and evening snack)

    Amari Galle

    Amari is a beachfront property owned by the well know Onyx group. With 172 rooms under 06 different categories, a unique pool, a lounge, kids area, spa, fitness centre, two restaurants and a rooftop bar, this 5-star hotel provides you with many facilities.

    Price – 14,000 LKR (Lunch buffet 3,500 LKR)

    Anantaya Resort and Spa Chilaw

    Located in the calm Chilaw cost, this award-winning property is picturesque and features a large outdoor pool, spa, gym, two restaurants and a bar. On request, they will arrange beach volleyball, cycling, water polo and boat rides too. They have five room categories including Water Villas with Jacuzzi.

    Price – 16,900 LKR

    Le Grand, Galle

    The newest addition to the Asia Leisure group, this 5-star hotel is now one of the premium hotels in Galle with majestic views of the famous Galle Fort. This property has a large pool next to the beach, a spa, three restaurants and a gym. They offer five categories of rooms fitted with either a Jacuzzi or a private plunge.

    Price – 16,000 LKR (Pool charge is 1,500 LKR per person)

    Aditya Resort Hikkaduwa

    Aditya Resort is a boutique hotel with 16 suites. Every suite includes private plunge pools, jacuzzies or lap pools. 10 of the 16 suites are with an ocean view whereas the remaining have a garden view. They do have a pool, a spa and a restaurant.

    Price – 19,000 LKR

    Taj Bentota Resort & Spa

    Taj Bentota is another upscale hotel and this hotel has a large pool, three restaurants, a spa and a fitness centre. All the rooms have king-size beds and complimentary WiFi.

    Price – 26,000 LKR

     

    Disclaimer: All of these offers are valid for Sri Lankans only. Given rates and services may vary depending on the availability and hotel policies. All photo copyrights and all rights are reserved by the respective owners.

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  • Amagi Aria – Beyond the ordinary comfort

    Negombo is a modest beach town located just 10km away from the Bandaranaike International Airport. The friendly local community, freshly caught fish, the lagoon and the beach are some of the main reasons why I love visiting Negombo. Inevitably, above-mentioned reasons do attract many local and foreign tourists thus housing plenty of hotels and guest houses of all scales and sizes.

    One such hotel that caught my attention when I was looking for a place to stay in Negombo last year was Amagi Aria, a four-star hotel that belongs to Amagi Hotels.

    Location

    The journey to Amagi Aria will not take more than an hour from Colombo and less than 20 minutes from Bandaranayake International Airport in Katunayake. Framed against the picture-perfect lagoon is the deck that will surely allow you to enjoy a glorious sunset. The hotel is situated in an ideal location where travelers can easily access the beach and other attractions in Negombo.

    Accommodation

    Amagi Aria offers you 68 guest rooms including 02 suites that are sophisticated and equipped with modern amenities. The Standard rooms offer you a garden view with the pool moreover the Deluxe rooms as well as the suites, offer you a glorious view of the lagoon and the city.

    The Deluxe room that I stayed in didn’t have the best view of the lagoon however, the balcony served as a great place to relax. Each of the rooms are furnished with a flat-screen TV, a minibar and a cupboard. The bathrooms are spacious and have hot water facilities. The rooms are designed with a simple and minimalistic theme.

    The pool at Amagi Aira, in my opinion may not be one of the best pools I’ve seen in a hotel. It is located right by the reception and it’s quite small in size.

    Food

    The main restaurants at Amagi Aria are Moya, Pontoon, Catamaran, Tree House, Sunset Deck, and the Lagoon. For both dinner and breakfast, I dined at the Catamaran restaurant which is the all-day dining restaurant. For both meals, they had a buffet with a variety of food items but I was not totally impressed by the range.

    Breakfast was a spread that had a mix of both Sri Lankan and Western Cuisine. If you wish to dine while enjoying the sunrise or the sunset at the lagoon, Moya, Pontoon and the Tree House are the ones for you.

    Other Facilities

    The picturesque lagoon is not the only thing that you can look forward to at Amagi Aria. In fact, they offer water sports facilities, a gym and a spa to let you make the most of your vacation. The hotel would also arrange city tours upon your request.

    Framing the magnificent lagoon, Amagi Aria aims to offer you a memorable service. Comment your thoughts on this hotel below.

     

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  • The Runcible Spoon – A culinary journey capturing the essence of modern Sri Lankan fusion cuisine

    A few weeks ago, I got the opportunity to visit one of the most talked about Restaurants in Galle – The Runcible Spoon at Owl & the Pussycat Hotel. The hotel itself is a living rendition of the poem Owl & the Pussycat by Edward Lear and the restaurant stands as a true testament for Sri Lankan Fusion Cuisine.

    Signature dishes at OTP such as the Gotukola Gazpacho – a cold soup made using locally grown Centella and the Lamb Themparadu – slow Roasted lamb with Jaffna spices, modernizes the flavors of Sri Lanka that stands up to any high global cuisine.

    All dishes are created mainly using locally sourced ingredients and Ms. Reita is very keen about maintaining particular about cooking techniques. That’s why at Runcible Spoon you can indulge without having to worry about your health. Following the concept of ‘Pan to Plate’, Ms. Reita is strict about how each dish is prepared using only freshly produced ingredients. For her, wellness comes first and it is important as good taste.

    To commemorate the Chinese New Year, the head chef at Runcible Spoon – Chef Amila, under the supervision of the remarkable Reita Gadhkari, improvised a special 7-course menu which they included authentic Chinese dishes with a Sri Lanka twist and here’s my verdict on it.

    First Starter – Crispy Seaweed

    The 7-course menu started off with batter-fried crispy seaweed strips served with a fresh, crunchy salad. I loved the flavor that was created with the saltiness of the seaweed mixed with the freshness of the veggies. If you are someone who is looking for a healthier yet a flavorsome snack, this one is for you.

    Amuse-bouche – Vegetable Dumpling

    A staple in Chinese cuisine, dumplings are widely a popular dish around the world. Although it had a nice gingery bite to it, I was not blown away by the flavor.

    Soup – Clear Coriander Soup with Sliced Prawns, Fresh Coriander & Lemon Grass

    Without a doubt, the Clear Coriander Soup with Jumbo Prawns was one of my favorite dishes in this menu. The herbs not only flavored the soup but also added a refreshing note. The prawns, of course, were juicy and had a burst of flavor. It was a light soup packed with rejuvenaFlavoredors and I believe it could be an ideal mid-week dinner option too.

    Appetizers – Wok Tossed Noodles with Asian Greens

    No Chinese Menu is complete without noodles. Flavoured with fresh sesame oil and veggies, this dish had the perfect balance between texture and flavor. The noodles were succulent yet not greasy.

    Main Course – Wok Tossed Jumbo Prawns with Stir-Fried Asian Greens

    Undoubtedly,  this was my favorite dish from the entire menu. Served with steamed rice, the prawns were juicy and bursting with Asian flavors while the stir-fried greens added a subtle smoked flavor. For a dish that had a ton of spicy flavor and pungency, it was amazingly light.

    Dessert – Chinese Rice Pudding with Red Bean Sauce & Fresh Mango Slices

    Rice pudding is a moreish dessert that never fails to satisfy anyone’s cravings for a hearty dessert. However, this classic Chinese dessert got a little makeover at OTP thanks to fresh mango slices, fresh mint, and slivered almonds, making it irresistible.

    All in all, the food, the ambiance, and the overall service at OTP would undoubtedly make the special dining out experience even more special.

    I believe that at OTP, you will discover a different dimension where passion for delicacies, fine arts, and good music are always welcomed.

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  • 18 Faces Boutique Hotel – A hidden bliss you can escape to

    With a living monument, the city of Galle has transformed itself to become one of the most visited and revered historical sites in Sri Lanka. A stroll in the fort will show you how the old buildings have converted this iconic fortress into an epic tourists destination.

    Although there are numerous hotels & villas to stay at Galle Fort, staying there could be quiet expensive. Earlier this year, I visited 18 Faces – an upcoming boutique hotel that not only fit my budget but also cozy and intimate. Keep reading to find out more about this newbie in Galle!

    Location

    18 Faces hotel is located just 3km away from Galle Town. Once you get to the main town of Galle, in less than 15 minutes you can reach 18 Faces hotel. Spoiler Alert – the hotel does not treat you for a magnificent beach view yet you will be treated with a well-maintained garden and an Instagram worthy pool.

    [googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3967.6596588927127!2d80.20195885147936!3d6.041350530232139!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x3ae1739360477649%3A0x2f9a87d462477558!2s18+Faces+Boutique+Hotel!5e0!3m2!1sen!2slk!4v1553775292816&w=1000&h=200]

    Architecture

    Like any other boutique hotel, 18 Faces hotel has paid keen attention to detail on the interior and exterior of the hotel. The rooms are spacious enough yet cozy. Each room has its own attached bathroom with hot water facility, a cupboard, a TV, a Bluetooth speaker, a mini fridge with beverages, a large mirror and of course a very comfortable bed. Each room has it’s a distinct aroma that surprisingly calms and soothes you, especially in the night. To keep in line with the name of the hotel, headboard of the bed is decorated with the faces of uniquely Sri Lankan masks and characters from old folklore. I must admit, it was creepy and scary at first but I feel like it added more character and dimension to the interior of the hotel.

    The restaurant also carries the same rustic but modern style. The yellow and blue furnishing added a nice pop of colour while the wooden stairs and white walls balance the interior out. As mentioned, the pool at 18 Faces hotel is one of my favourite pools. It’s small yet cozy and intimate. There’s even a huge floating flamingo to keep you accompanied. The pool, to my knowledge, is open even during the night.

    Accommodation & Food

    18 Faces Boutique hotel offers stays only on B&B thus far. But with plenty of eateries in and around Galle Fort, you will get the perfect opportunity to explore the dynamics of authentic Sri Lankan Southern cuisine. Pictured below is the English breakfast I had and even though it looks like I had little to nothing, it was filling. Also, you can always ask for more.

    Additional

    If you wish to explore the city faster, 18 Faces Boutique hotel can provide you with scooters (motorcycles) at a reasonable daily flat rate. All you have to do is asking the staff and they will assist you. With under 120 USD, I was able to get the best out of my mini vacation.

    If you have been to 18 Faces, let me know your thoughts about this place and if you haven’t do definitely pay them a visit.

     

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  • Afternoon Tea at Hilton – A local affair

    An amalgamated British Tradition – Afternoon tea has now become one of the quaintest yet elegant ways to spend time with friends or colleagues all the while enjoying scrumptious and unique food items. Here’s a look into what Hilton Colombo offers you in their edition of Afternoon Tea.

    What can you expect from Afternoon Tea at Hilton?

    A well spread out mixture of traditional and non traditional food items and a range of teas and coffees to compliment different flavours of each food item. The all new lobby and lounge at Hilton sets the perfect ambiance to enjoy your company and upon your request the staff can even arrange Afternoon Tea at the deck ensuring that you would have a perfect evening in just the right way.

    A local affair – Traditional Yet Modern 

    Hilton serves in my opinion one of the most elegant Afternoon tea platters in town. With a traditional 3 tiered high stand, you can indulge in a decent variety of traditional British as well as Sri Lankan food items. I chose the Sri Lankan platter but they do have a traditional British Platter as well for those who wish to experience the authentic British flavours.

    The main attraction of the afternoon tea platter at Hilton is their three tiered tea tray. Perfect placement of each food item proves that attention to detail is key at Hilton. Although it may seem like a traditional platter at first, each food item comes with it’s own little twist.

    From Savories to Sweets –  A tasteful path

    The top most tier is filled with savory items followed by middle and bottom tiers filled with sweet items. They also serve a separate mini platter of authentic local savories with a tangy tomato sauce.

    Onion Sambol, Boiled Egg in Curry Leaf Bun

    Caramelized onions stuffed in a soft bun and topped of with a perfectly boiled egg and crunchy lettuce. The slight sweetness from the onions goes perfectly with the creaminess of the egg and the lettuce adds a nice crunch as well.

    Curried Vegetables and Cheddar Grilled Sandwich

    This sandwich proves that a few simple spices can elevate the natural flavours of vegetables. The turmeric and the cumin complement the sweetness of carrots and beans and the sharp, salty taste of cheddar balance out the flavours of the sandwich filling.

    Devilled Prawn with cheese in Mini Hot Dog

    No one can resists prawns cooked with a nice blend of spices. Not only these prawns were juicy but soft in texture as well. It is certainly one of my favourite food items of the entire menu. The sweetness of the prawns with the mild spiciness of the sauce in my opinion was impeccable.

    Slow Roasted Chicken, Coconut Sambol with Cheese Stack Godhamba

    Godhamba Roti is a staple in Sri Lankan cuisine and it makes the perfect wrap to complement the flavours of roasted chicken and spicy coconut sambol. The chicken was creamy and the sambol did enhance the subtle smoky flavour of it even more.

    Egg & Seeni Sambol Pol Roti

    This was by far one of my favourite savory food items on this platter. It is literally a Sri Lankan version of an egg burger. A fried egg topped with seeni sambol and assembled between two pol roti, this combo quite literally encompasses authentic local flavours of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.

    Plain & Raisins Scones, Clotted Cream and Strawberry Jam

    Scone is a quintessential element of a traditional British Afternoon Tea and in this platter you will see a plain scone as well as a raisins scone which are distinctively fluffy in texture. The strawberry jam is another show stopping element and pairs perfectly well with either of the scones. Highly recommend you to try the scones with jam and whip cream.

    Apart from the scones, they had an impressive range of sweets that reminded me of a classic British afternoon tea. The Pina Colada Pineapple Delight and Noisette Dacquoise Manjari Praline Crunch are two of my favourite picks out of the array of sweets. The texture of Pina Colada Delight was silky and the balance between the tartness and sweetness of each element in the dessert was perfect.

    Noisette Dacquoise Manjari Praline Crunch had a nice brownie like consistency to it and definitely tasted much better than a brownie. If you have a sweet tooth, Mango & Raspberry Sensation is a must try for you. It was creamy in texture and you can taste the flavours of Mango and Raspberry distinctively.

    Arguably English Breakfast tea is the perfect choice for after noon tea but when there is a twist I believe the tradition should be changed a bit. You can have your choice of beverage with afternoon tea but for this particular platter I would recommend a ginger tea. The sweetness of the ginger pairs perfectly with the spices added in each savoury items and enhances the flavours of the sweets as well. Always remember to have your tea while it’s still hot.

    If you are planning to spend a memorable evening with your loved ones I would definitely suggest the L.A.B. – lounge and bar at Hilton. It is a little pricey but it surely is worthwhile.

     

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  • Yaathra by Jetwing – Cruise in Style

    Kerala – God’s own country filled with coconut trees, aromatic spices and elegant houseboats. One might wish to go to Kerala just to experience a lavish stay at one of the houseboats but did you know that you could experience the same here in Sri Lanka? Located in Bentota – Yaathra by Jetwing is the first houseboat of it’s kind in Sri Lanka. The easitest and the fastest way to reach there is by Southern Expressway (E02) and from the exit at Aluthgama it would only take maximum of 45 mins. for you to reach Yaathra down the ‘Elpitiya Road’.

    [googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3964.8712569382515!2d80.02029821486231!3d6.41058019536169!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x3ae22c10de00f815%3A0x1241ebd1e2112601!2sYathra+by+Jetwing!5e0!3m2!1sen!2slk!4v1515654221065&w=1000&h=200]

     

    Built by the ever popular Niel Marine and designed exclusively by Mrs. Sunela Jayawardena – Yaathra aims to offer a luxurious cruising experience to both local and foreign tourists. Located amidst unique mangrove and distinctive trees and plants, Yaathra is the best way to explore the scenic beauty that Dedduwa Lagoon has to offer. With two air conditioned luxury cabins along with attached bathrooms, one dining area, a rooftop deck and a gaelly – the houseboat is built to perfection using eco friendly and sustainable material such as bamboos, wood and dried coconut branches and provides the guests with an elegant yet a very comfortable environment to relax whilst enjoying the natural habitat. The bathrooms are well equipped with hot and cold water and with a jacuzzi facing the river, you can truly relax and unwind.

    Be sure to check out the sunset from the private balconies in each cabin as it is certainly one of the most breathtaking views I have seen. Food at Yaathra is divine and depending on what the local fishermen catch you can indulge in a traditional Sri Lankan cuisine with signature fish curries. The houseboat is an ideal site for a couple on their honeymoon and they also offer a special package which includes helicopter or seaplane transfers.

    The houseboat cruises for five (05) hours starting from Dedduwa Boat House, goes upto Horawala and comes back to the boat house. You can choose the saling times as you wish but the recommended times would be 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. (03 hours) & 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (02 hours).  As the houseboat journeys on Benthara River, guests can witness for themselves why Benthara river is known for its rich biodiversity. The lagoon and the banks of the river provide shelter to different types of authentic birds and creatures and if you observe well you may even spot ‘Fishing Cats’ also known as Handun Diviya wandering around. Captain Leel – the master behind the helm with his expertise would take you on a smooth sail and would also share a tale or two about the locale. So be sure to have a chat with him when you are on board.

    Apart from cruising along on Benthara River, guests can also be involved in several other activities. You can visit Galpaatha Raja Maha Viharaya which is important historically as well as religiously in Sri Lanka and is frequently visited by the Buddhists. If you seek for more adventure, visit Bawa House – home of world renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa and engage in the Bawa Trail to witness his intricate designs, his mysterious lifestyle and legacy he has left behind. You could also experience the boat rides Bawa House offers – all you have to do is inform the staff at Yaathra and they would do the needful for you. Guests can also go fishing while the boat is anchored at the deck and you can also go canoeing with the assistance of the staff around the houseboat however, I would not recommend swimming in the river because the possibility for you to become a meal for a crocodile is very high.

    If you wish to spend your next vacation at Yaathra I must say this is on the pricier side as the prices range from 40,000 LKR – 50,000 LKR. Nevertheless, in my opinion I believe the service you get at Yaathra is definitely impeccable. Captain Leel and his staff is not only welcoming but friendly and very attentive to your needs and would make sure that your stay at Yaathra is a remarkable one. Although Yaathra offers several packages you can always customize your package and with no corkage charged Yaathra could be your next stop for an ultimate night out with friends and family.

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    Review of Yaathra by Jetwing - The first ever houseboat experience in Sri Lanka

  • Jie Jie by Jetwing – An essence of China in Sri Lanka

    Opened in January 2017; Jie Jie Beach by Jetwing is the latest addition to the Jetwing family. Located just 30 km from Colombo; it is the perfect oasis in the busy town of Panadura.

    Here are my reasons for you to visit this newly opened my kinda hideaway spot.

    #1 – No long rides to reach

    Because it’s located just 30 km from Colombo – Jie Jie Beach by Jetwing is not hard to reach at all. You can either use the Southern Express Way or Galle Road to get there. Whatever route you pick make sure you avoid rush hours from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

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    #2 – Friendly staff

    Jetwing hotel chain is well reputed for their supreme hospitality services and Jie Jie Beach is no exception to it. The staff here is very friendly and attentive to all your needs. However if you need something sent to your room you might have to remind them several times to get it.

    #3 – A variety of food

    I can surely say that this hotel gives you the best and authentic taste of Chinese cuisine because most of the Chinese food items are prepared by Chinese Chefs. You can indulge in a fusion cuisine which includes both local and Chinese flavours. Also the restaurant follows a flexible and rather practical dinning times with Breakfast starting from 6 a.m. and Dinner until 10 p.m. which gives you ample time to dine in at your leisure.

    #4 – Pork! Pork! Pork!

    For all the pork lovers out there; this is the restaurant for you! They maintain a separate Pork Corner at the restaurant where they serve pork dishes only for all three meals. From bacon to pan fried pork cutlets; it is definitely a pork fiesta to your taste buds.

    #5 – Great view

    There’s nothing more relaxing and refreshing than waking up to a great view when you are on a vacation. Be it a standard room with a garden view or a  Deluxe room with a sea view; Jie Jie by Jetwing ensures that no matter which room you stay; you would be waking up to the hypothesizing waves and hum of the Indian Ocean.

    #6 – Accommodation

    Jie Jie by Jetwing has four main types of rooms including several types of suites and standard rooms. No matter which room category you choose to stay, each room is designed and built on contemporary standards providing you with a luxurious experience.

    All in all Jie Jie by Jetwing was not disappointing. Certainly there are few drawbacks such as the loud noise of trains passing by and the pool been filled with sand than water after a rainy night. However if you wish to be away from all the chaos in the city; Jie Jie certainly should be added to your list.

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    Review of Jie Jie by Jetwing - An essence of China in Sri Lanka

  • Lake Serenity – A place to find Solace

    Located amidst one of nature’s breathtaking sites – Lake Serenity Boutique Hotel is one of the few localities that would allow you to be on par with nature’s composure and let you find your inner peace.

    Surrounded by the peaks of Sri Pada mountain range and several other mountain peaks at Kuruwita – Rathnapura; Lake Serenity truly speaks for it’s name with it’s in and out surroundings. The hotel is the ideal travel destination for anyone who wishes to spend some quality time at one’s leisure.

    From the entrance to the lake, the restaurant and the individual rooms – Lake Serenity has the ability to make you feel as if you are wandering in the ancient times but in the modern world. The pathways and the greenery around you would certainly let you immerse in nature’s beauty. When entered from the main royal gates; You will be greeted by a not so camera shy macaw bird with it’s vibrant and joyful personality. The hotel also play hosts for some unique birds – A pair of Swans and several ducks and geese. All of which can be seen wandering in and around the lake at the hotel. I was also told by the hotel’s resident manager that during certain times of the year the hotel gets the opportunity to witness the presence of some of the most unique and one of a kind migratory birds. So if you are a bird lover and would want to see birds while enjoying yourself in a soothing environment; you would find yourself at the right spot in Lake Serenity.

    The interior of the room pays homage to old Ceylon creations as the walls display the cracks of the bricks and the doors reveal the patterns on the wood in an artistic manner. The pool is relatively smaller than some of the pools I have seen but it doesn’t fail to give a perfect view of the mountain range. The mesmerizing view and the calming water will drift you into your own little Nirvana.

    Apart from the already existing rooms Lake Serenity has also added a new attraction named as ‘Lake Serenity Farm Stay’ – a concept through which you would experience the true Sri Lankan life style. The rooms at Lake Serenity Farms are surrounded by an actual mini farm which grows vegetables and other herbs. Furniture of this room are made using Kohomba (Margosa) wood. The rooms have it’s own little porch and inside that you will see a wide little bench on which you could literally fall asleep accompanied by the cold breeze but I would not recommend doing so as the area is home for not only mosquitoes but also wild boars.

    Unfortunately the day I visited Lake Serenity was the day they chose to renovate their restaurant. However I cannot guarantee you that the restaurant would provide you with great meals but a great surroundings. Guests are being taken into the restaurant using a pontoon. Sadly though the ride lasts for not more than five minutes as it ends before you could settle into the experience. I was not highly satisfied with the food even though it was Chinese. I found the food to be a little too oily and spicy. A word of caution though; you may have to keep fanning around you as flies from all corners will come and greet you.

    For me it was a one of the perfect places to get away from all the hassle in the city. Oddly for me though the silence around can be a little too intimidating. However if you seek to have a calm and a quiet time – this would be the perfect environment for you. I was told that the current President of Sri Lanka – H.E. Maithree Pala Sirisena along with his family spent a day at Lake Serenity. It got me thinking; If it was good enough for the president then it would certainly be good enough for you 😉