Holiday Reviews
We invite every traveller who books a holiday via us to send in a review. Because we don't run the holidays they're completely independent and unedited... remember to read between the lines though, as two people on the same trip can have different views!
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Negombo beach hotel in Sri Lanka, independent reviews
 Reviewed 26 Jan 2006 by Roger Brown |  |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Whilst a tiny aspect in the overall holiday, the charming and unerringly tranquil ferry trip back and forth across the river at all hours of the day and night to and from the accommodation is the image which shall live with us both for the longest time and be the source of peace in hectic moments for months to come.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The accommodation, location and staff are a match for many four star resorts and the most awkward and particular traveller will not be disappointed by this corner of paradise. However the restaurant, whilst serving quality and fresh food at all time, tends toward surprisingly bland and European menus aimed more at the less adventurous and mainland European visitor. Similarly, the suggestions for onward travel and activity may be on the unadventurous side of safety. Any visitor would do well to cross the ferry and walk to the nearby village and locality to taste the cuisine and culture. The seafood restaurant "Anthony's" at the gate of the hotel will deliver huge portions of the freshest caught fish and the opportunity to meet local fishermen happy to take tourists with them on their fishing expeditions or indeed to arrange a boat trip to neighbouring Negombo or a tourist trip with qualified guide elsewhere on the Island. Our experience is that you will be directly supporting the local community and will find the utmost integrity combined with surprisingly high standards of service and accommodation. By all means go to this accommodation for your holiday but don't forget to go off the island and meet some people.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
The existence of the hotel on the doorstep of the small local fishing village unquestionably brought substantial business to the local community. The fact that this is an island - quite literally and completely since the Tsunami - means that there is no question of any vehicles or heavy machinery in the resort which certainly promotes the ubiquitous wildlife and birds. Solar heating for water has got to be a good idea and is no less so for the fact that it seems to be a fairly standard mechanism across the island as opposed to being any great leap forward at this place. It is difficult to judge the true environmental impact of 100 Europeans descending on a small piece of land and to objectively weigh benefits against problems. But it is clear that it takes its responsibilities to the environment and local community seriously and within realistic boundaries makes a genuine effort.
4. Any other comments?
We have just returned from our holiday and I would like to thank you and Responsible Travel so very much for your assistance and introduction of such a lovely place. We had a super time with extremely friendly staff in a very beautiful place. If they served more Sri Lankan and less European food it would have been impossible to fault.
| Reviewed 17 Jan 2009 by Laura Donovan | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The Ayurvedic spa was wonderful with brilliant service. I also enjoyed the nature walk.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
There's a lovely walk along the river worth exploring.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
It seemed to help the local community but it is hard to be sure. However, the reduced environmental impacts were clear.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
I greatly enjoyed the trip. The service was impeccable. I have sent the link for the hotel to a very long list of friends.
| Reviewed 5 Aug 2007 by Ian Richardson | |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Numerous. The ferry ride across to the resort changed the whole atmosphere, you were a in a different world. Early morning bird watching and eating produce from the villages own garden.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared for peace and quiet! It can be used as a base for exploring the island, although this means long days OR moving out for 1 or 2 nights!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
As it is not part of a chain it felt as though the proceeds were staying in Sri Lanka.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent, feel relaxed and refreshed!
| Reviewed 30 Apr 2004 by Russell Blackwell | |
We found the staff knowledgable and the environment very relaxing. Special arrangements for a nature tour and transport to and from the airport were set up without any bother. We also liked the local cuisine which was an option. It happened that our flight home was cancelled at short notice and the staff were particularly helpful in checking what needed to be done. By its nature, this hotel makes great emphasis on open air living and being animal friendly. This is fine, but guests have to realise that this can mean unattractive animals like rats can also have access to public rooms. I think the hotel has the right balance overall eg good concern about mosquito control. By the way, the variety of birds to be seen is breathtaking! I recommend the hotel.