94 • LIFESTYLE

Tag: Galle

  • 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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  • 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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  • City Stay – Stay closer to Galle

    If you have any plans to travel in Sri Lanka, Galle is one of the destinations you must visit. It is one of the most breathtaking and beautiful cities in the country filled with ancient value and a mesmerizing coast line. The Dutch Fort in Galle stands out than anything else in the city as it is one of the finest human creations which even survived the 2004 Tsunami disaster.

    If you want to experience Galle at its best, spare one or two complete days for it. There are many places you can visit and engage in a variety of activities. If you are a nature lover and want to experience the habitat of sea creatures and sea turtles in particular; Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre in Mahamodara is the place for you to be. If you are a historian; Galle fort is certainly for you as it has several museums and old churches which show case the architecture of old Ceylon. Several outlets inside fort rent out bicycles and I believe it is the best way to explore the city without a hassle. How can we forget the infamous light house? Be sure check it out too!

    While everything awaits you at Galle, be wise when choosing your accommodation. You are privileged if you get to stay in the Dutch Fort, yet the amount you have to pay for a night would make you think twice about staying at the Fort. The best option would be to have your overnight stay outside the Fort. It will surely save you some cash which can be used to travel a bit more or try out the local cuisine.

    Recently I stayed a couple of nights at “City Stay”  – a small affordable luxury hotel located few miles away from Galle City near the Southern Expressway entry road. City Stay is a newly opened compact, yet a cosy hotel with a very friendly staff. There are only four rooms in total  – one triple room and two double rooms. Interior wise no two rooms are same as each room has its own colour theme. The one we stayed was in orange theme and the other rooms follow colour themes of red, blue and purple. I personally prefer the red room which is a double room as I find that room to be a bit of romantic than the rest. The rooms are clean and tidy and the paintings in the rooms create the perfect ambience to relax. The rooms are quite spacious and enough for two. A large wardrobe and a mini fridge can be found in each room. The bathroom is equipped with modern fittings and is relatively large. Even though it is a newly opened hotel it is disappointing to see some of the bath-ware broken. However, no major damage was there in the bathroom and of course, there’s hot water to compensate! There is also a rooftop, but the access would not be easy and there is not splendid view.

    Their restaurant, Orangery has a red and black theme which I loved. They do not have a buffet but the Chef at City Stay doesn’t fail to satisfy your taste buds. A friendly Chef who first feast your eyes through the presentation of food. We got to choose from a variety of food items from their a-la-carte menu. The food was freshly prepared and was not too oily or too dry. Food at City Stay contains authentic Sri Lankan spices like cinnamon, cloves, curry leaves, lemongrass etc. and you can get your favourite dish in the way you want it with just a simple request. Definitely recommend you to have at least one meal from their restaurant.

    At the entrance of the hotel you will see a white Tuk-tuk. Do not hesitate to ask for a ride and be sure to engage in a conversation with the driver and he will share tales from this legendary city like the one which local believe that Jungle Beach is the part which was brought down by Hanuman from India.