Spending a luxurious holiday in Ceylon is not at all that hard to do, and of course, your “home base” for your holidays will be at the center of it all. There are a lot of places where you can stay in Ceylon, and one very highly recommended hotel is the Galle Fort Hotel.
Situated on Church Street in Galle Fort, this boutique hotel has already received a lot of attention from foreign visitors as well as the press. It is no wonder, really, as the hotel is perfect in so many ways! Take a look at this list to see what reputable entities have to say about the hotel:
• Conde Nast Hot List 2005
• Chosen by Conde Naste as one of the best new hotels in the world under $200
• Most desirable hotel bed linen in the world Wallpaper magazine
• Winner of the 2007 UNESCO Award of Distinction for cultural heritage conservation
• Selected by The Australian Travel Magazine as “ one of our top five places in the world to chill and relax”
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Written by Georgie on March 24th, 2011 | 4 Comments »
Filed under Boutique Hotels, Ceylon, Galle Fort
Looking at old postcards is a wonderful way to glimpse into the history of a place. Here are a selection of some fascinating ones sent to us by a Sri Lankan friend from Galle that truly reflect the beauty and majestic qualities of old Ceylon.
Temple of Tooth Relic – Kandy
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Written by Antonella on December 17th, 2010 | Comments Off
Filed under Architecture, Arts, Ceylon, Colombo, History
This fabulous beachside property 7km from Galle certainly lives up to its name. Ambalama means ‘resting place’ in Sinhalese and it is an ideal villa in which to live out dreams of a relaxing tropical holiday. The construction of the villa celebrates its exotic location, seamlessly merging the indoors with the out. Highlighted by many fascinating antique pillars and doorways this villa may takes its inspiration from Bali, but its warm hospitality and glorious setting confirms its authenticity as Sri Lankan.
Ambalama offers plenty of luxe for the traveller. Its four equitable bedrooms are highlighted by comfortable four-poster beds adorned with the highest thread count linen to be found in Sri Lanka. With multiple sets of doors opening onto the front sea view verandah, louvers provide the rooms with enough of a breeze for you to hardly ever need to use the air conditioning or fan, although both are available. With two of the modern bathrooms featuring an enclosed open air shower surrounded by a soothing tropical garden, this is barefoot luxury at its best. More »
Written by Antonella on November 8th, 2010 | Comments Off
Filed under Beach Holidays, Ceylon, Cuisine, Galle Fort, Luxury, Luxury Travel, Tips, Villas
In an previous post, we featured the most elegant place to stay in Colombo: Park Street, developed and run by Taru Villas. Another Taru Villas property well worth exploring is The River House, located in Balapitiya, near Bentota- about a two hour drive south of Colombo on the road to Galle.
Renowned fashion designer, Taru, has surpassed herself and “Sri Lankan Boutique” in this luxurious villa along the coast from sister in quiet Balapitiya at the mouth of the Madu Ganga.
Set on a belt of coconut plantations 500m inland, the surroundings are peaceful woodland. The forest hosts many birds, and you may make an interesting visit to the nearby prawn farm on the river that borders the garden. More »
Written by Antonella on July 3rd, 2010 | Comments Off
Filed under Architecture, Boutique Hotels, Ceylon, Luxury Travel, Tours, Travel
For a lot of people, when Sri Lanka or Ceylon is mentioned, tea is the first thing that comes to mind. You can’t blame them, for Ceylon tea is some of the best to be found in the entire world. Indeed, I know some people who will not settle for anything less than Ceylon tea.
If you are a tea enthusiast, then Ceylon should be at the top of your list of travel destinations. Naturally, you would expect to find accommodations that highlight this national specialty. If we’re to rely on the opinions of experts and seasoned travelers, you will not go wrong in choosing the Tea Factory Hotel. The name itself tells you what to expect – what you see is what you get. More »
Written by georgie on May 17th, 2010 | Comments Off
Filed under Ceylon, Hotels, Sri Lanka, Tea, Travel
Travelers who have a sense of history or at least appreciate the cultures of the past will definitely want to pay a visit to Anuradhapura. This city used to be the capital of Sri Lanka – way back in the ancient times. Today, it is best known for its ruins, which are quite well-preserved.
The city is located about 200 kilometers (125 miles) from Colombo, which is the current capital of Sri Lanka. From Colombo, you can just head up north and you’ll eventually hit Anuradhapura. Aside from its popularity with visitors, Anuradhapura holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. That in itself should tell you that it is worth visiting.
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Written by georgie on April 25th, 2010 | Comments Off
Filed under Buddhism, Ceylon, Sri Lanka
Some people like to travel to experience new adventures; to get out of their comfort zones. Then again, there are those who expect only the most luxurious things on vacation. If you belong to the second type of traveler, and you are looking for only the finest, I should let you know all about Serene Pavilions.
I have to thank one of our readers, Richard, for bringing my attention to this resort. Serene Pavilions can be found at No. 20, Upali Mawatha, Wadduwa, Sri Lanka; and it promises you one of the most luxurious experiences you’ll ever have in your life. It is considered a boutique hotel with 12 pavilions.
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Written by georgie on April 18th, 2010 | 2 Comments »
Filed under Beach Holidays, Boutique Hotels, Ceylon, Luxury, Luxury Travel
