94 • LIFESTYLE

Tag: Featured

  • 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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  • Belt – Busting Dishes at the Rustic Kitchen

    Here’s another quick verdict on an eatery that is perfect for a quick bite or a hearty meal with your friends and family. Founded and headed by Majella, this family-friendly restaurant reflects her passion for all things delicious and enticing.

    Factor 1: Food

    From flavoursome Chinese dishes to homemade scrumptious desserts, Rustic Kitchen offers a wide range of food items that are both local and foreign. Interestingly, their specials are inspired by the wild west.

    For drinks, we ordered a fresh orange juice and a herbal juice. The herbal juice is a house specialty made using carrots, cucumbers, and lime. The sweetness of the carrot paired well with the acidity of lime, making it very refreshing while the orange juice tasted fresh. We skipped the appetizers and ordered the mains – Sea Food Chow Mein and Sizzling Pepper Styled Pork. The chow mein was full of flavour and had a generous serving of seafood mixed in. In my opinion, I’d like it to have a bit more sauce mixed in, to avoid dryness of the noodles. The Sizzling Pepper Styled Pork was spicy yet delicious and it paired well with the noodles. For dessert, we order Home Made Carmel Pudding. It was decadent and rich in flavour but the presentation of it wasn’t really appealing.

    Tip: When you are at Rustic Kitchen, don’t forget to try out ‘Aunty Rozanne’s biscuit pudding’, which is another crowd favourite.

    Factor 2: Service

    The staff at Rustic Kitchen is attentive to your needs. They would also guide you through the menu and recommend dishes for you. It took about thirty minutes for our main dishes and about five minutes for the dessert to arrive. However, the time depends on the dish you order.

    Factor 3: Ambience

    The interior at Rustic Kitchen is evidently inspired by the wild west. From lighting to the table arrangements, the restaurant sets the mood for a calm setting. The bright canary yellow sofas add a bright note and if you observe well you can find little blackboards with quirky notices. The basement hosts a bar aptly named as the Stables is where you can enjoy a drink or two on BYOB basis.

    Factor 4: Price

    At Rustic Kitchen, for a three-course meal for two, the price would range from 2,500 LKR to 10,000 LKR or more. However, you can have a quick yet filling snack for under 2,000 LKR.

    Factor 5: Location

    Located on the Negombo- Colombo main road, Rustic Kitchen is a little hard to notice with its spacious parking space in the front. From Colombo, through the Negombo – Colombo main road, you can reach Rustic Kitchen in about an hour. If you are heading towards Colombo from Bandaranaike International Airport through the expressway, you can reach Rustic Kitchen in less than an hour.

    [googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3959.7551033112036!2d79.89598895147884!3d7.038042318892538!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x3ae2f76d405d0e17%3A0xe6c9d06bcfeb99a3!2sRustic+Kitchen!5e0!3m2!1sen!2slk!4v1553775612453&w=1000&h=200]

    Tip: Make sure you skip the busy hours in the morning and in the evening when heading towards Rustic Kitchen from Colombo to avoid the heavy traffic.

    Factor 6: Parking

    As mentioned before, another reason why I think Rustic Kitchen is ideal for a large gathering is the availability of ample parking space which can easily accommodate about eight cars.

    Their motto, a recipe has no soul as the cook must bring soul to the recipe is certainly reflected on their dishes to their service. If you are living in or around Kandana or even passing by, don’t forget to pay a visit to Rustic Kitchen.

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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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  • Traveling Tips to Negombo

    Traveling Tips to Negombo

    After many months of silence, I am back with another article. Although I love everything about Galle, I constantly remind myself that as a traveler, I have to visit and explore other wonderful cities and places in Sri Lanka. Negombo is one location that is quite underrated and here are my tips for you if you decide to visit Negombo to explore and  find out why it’s reputed as the ‘Little Rome’ in Sri Lanka.

    Timing of your trip

    Planning is key if you want to have a less chaotic vacation. After all, we want to take a break, relax and unwind during our vacation. But if the destination you are off to is busy and chaotic, you will most likely end up in a location filled with people. Try to avoid busy months such as April, August and December and do travel on weekdays instead of weekends. It would only take about maximum of 2 hours to reach Negombo through  the Katunayake Expressway from Colombo and only 10 to 15 minutes from the Bandaranaike International Airport.

    Pro Tip – Avoid morning hours from 7AM to 9AM and evening hours 6PM to 8PM to enjoy a traffic free ride.

    Choosing the right accommodation

    Being an urban tourist destination means there are plenty of hotels and guest houses of all scales and sizes in the area. From luxury hotels to boutiques hotels, budget hotels and even private villas, Negombo is filled with all sorts of hotels and guest houses. Do your research before picking up a place to see if it fits your budget and would provide you with a decent service. Don’t be deceived by the pictures you see online. Be sure to check the reviews and ratings on booking websites and even on Google Local Guides to get an idea about a particular property before you make your reservation.

    A 360 Virtual Tour is also another comprehensive way to find out more about the exterior as well as the interior of a certain property so be sure to check it out if your desired hotel has a virtual tour published either on Google Street View or  on their own website. For my stay I chose Amagi Aria – a newly established four star hotel in Negombo. Comment below if you’d like to see a review on it.

    Pro Tip – DM a local travel blogger to find out unbiased information about suitable accommodation.

    What to see in Negombo

    Oddly enough, Negombo is not one of the most picturesque cities in Sri Lanka. Nevertheless, the city is filled with many important sites and here are some of the places you can visit in Negombo.

    Negombo Fish Markets

    From mackerels to prawns and lobsters, the Negombo Fish markets are the home to an array of fish caught freshly by the local fishermen. Visit the market early in the morning to get a first hand experience on fish auctioning and selling.

    Hamilton (Dutch) Canal

    Built in the early 1800 by the British, the Hamilton Canal is one of the most noteworthy sites  in Negombo. It connects Puttalam to Colombo and the walkways along the canal would give you a glimpse of the daily lives of local fishermen and villagers. Named after the Government Agent of Revenue and Commerce in 1802, Garvin Hamilton – the canal was added to the east of the earlier cut canal by Sinhalese king at the time and the Dutch rulers.

    Angurukaramulla Temple

    Situated towards the eastern part of the Negombo town, the Angurukaramulla Temple is distinctively known for the 6m-long reclining Buddha Statue, sitting on a dragon head. The hallways are filled with mural and various statutes that depict characters and scenarios from Buddhist Literature.

    Duwa Church

    Once it was the home to the magnificent statue of Christ – Duwa Church is highly popular among the catholics in Sri Lanka for its passion play, a spiritual exercise performed for over 400 years. The area around the church almost replicates a scene from Nazareth thanks to the white sand and the beach. Once you enter into the church premises, you will feel that this is not just another church, but a place that holds many untold stories.

    Dutch Fort

    Built by the Portuguese initially, the fort once acted as one of the crucial locations to defense Colombo during the Dutch invasion. Unfortunately, only the main entrance and some walls are all what remain today. So do not expect to see a fort that is similar to the ones in Galle or Mannar.

    Pro Tip – Don’t be afraid to explore through small, remote roads as they lead to the most unexpected sites. However, make sure that you are not alone in your expedition to find these pleasing sites.

    So for your next vacation, go to Negombo and experience the locality, talk to the locals and see for yourself what makes Negombo a special destination.

  • 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.

    [googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3962.542535623263!2d79.90394295147894!3d6.703435322878554!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x3ae246268fa75e5b%3A0x757158b8cbfb45f5!2sJie+Jie+Beach+by+Jetwing!5e0!3m2!1sen!2slk!4v1553776055613&w=1000&h=200]

    #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

  • Kithul Kanda – A place of tranquility

    We all want to travel. We all like to go out of town to get away from the hustle bustle. While we all wish to relax and enjoy ourselves we also don’t want to travel for long hours to get to our destination.

    Kithul Kanda is one such place where you do not have to travel long miles to get to. Located only just 35km from Colombo; one or two hours drive will take you right to a top of a mountain where you would find a little paradise surrounded with nature’s beauty. Kithul Kanda is one of the hotels that will allow you to be in par with nature without even realizing that you are still just mins away from Colombo. Spreaded across 16 acres the hotel provides you not only with a perfect view but also with fresh food and clean surroundings.

    Unlike other hotels and resorts Kithul Kanda maintains only 20 rooms ranging from Family rooms to Deluxe & Super Deluxe. The infinity pool gives you a great view of the mountain range and so does the restaurant. The food at Kithul Kanda is delicious, indulgent and fresh. It’s a fusion cuisine which doesn’t fail your taste buds. The staff at Kithul Kanda are very friendly and attentive to your needs. Apart from the view and the pool there are not many activities in the hotel to be involved in. Yet there is a 3km trail around the mountain and if you happen to visit this hotel during the right season you may even witness the harvesting of the famous Kithul Flower along the trail.

    The hotel promotes Eco-Tourism and the management hopes to involve the guests more in this process. One such practice they follow is recycling waste in the form of converting waste food to pig’s food and selling to nearby farms. The hotel also hosts a very fierce set of monkeys so be mindful and do not leave your room’s doors or windows open. All in all for me it felt like a home away from home. It is an ideal hotel for me to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty, good food and of course a great time with my family and friends.

    P.S. The hotel does not allow you to have food/beverages in and around the pool area and if you climb on the rock that is in the hotel in the evening before sunset you would be able to spot the Colombo Harbour and the Lotus Tower.

    Click here for a 360° Virtual Tour of this property to get a real-life-like feeling.

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    Review of Kithul Kanda Mountain Resort - A place of tranquility

  • 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 😉