Cinnamon Red Colombo

Rising 26 stories, the Cinnamon Red Colombo is a sleek and modern property that lures both business and leisure travelers with a good list of features and convenient location. Walking inside from street level, guests are greeted by stylish black floors, panels of square cutouts that flip to red or black, a few robin-egg-blue chairs under a black-and-white aerial shot of the surrounding area. Three elevators shuttle guests to reception on the seventh floor, though this setup often leads to long wait times for the elevators. The lobby, adjacent bar, and restaurant on the eighth floor are decorated in a color palette of primarily white, red, and black -- a theme that extends to nearly all of the rooms. Though the contemporary design is attractive, it's the views from nearly every area of the property that draws the eyes. The best vistas are found at the rooftop infinity pool and bar, which have striking outlooks of the Indian Ocean and/or the city. While rooms are quiet, the rooftop bar plays loud music that may not be everyone's taste. Even so, that rooftop bar is a big pro for previous guests, who enjoy the social vibe and amazing views.

The Cinnamon Red Colombo has a convenient location within walking distance of some sights and easy driving distance to farther attractions. Viharamahadevi Park, Gangaramaya Temple, and the National Museum are around a 10- to 15-minute walk away. Galle Face Beach and park are under 10 minutes by car or tuk-tuk, while the Dutch Museum can be reached in about 12 minutes by taxi. There are also some restaurants, bars, and shops within walking distance. Colombo International Airport is approximately 40 minutes away by car. Tuk-tuks can easily be hailed right outside the hotel.  

Following the design found throughout the common areas, rooms have contemporary furnishings that come in a red, white, and black motif. Gray carpet has Jackson Pollock-esque red and white splashes; vibrant red pops come from chairs, curtains, and throw pillows; and large murals over the beds have inspirational quotes like "I feel good today" in big, funky lettering. They're well-maintained, and king or twin beds are routinely praised as comfortable. All rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city and/or Indian Ocean, with the best views coming from higher floors. Desks and free Wi-Fi are handy for business travelers, plus there are mini-fridges, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free tea and coffee for the electric kettles. Bathrooms have polished white tiling, roomy showers, hairdryers, and magnifying mirrors, but toiletries are limited to a shower gel and combined shampoo/conditioner. One Suite is available with serene white, gray, and blue decor. It has a separate living room with a good amount of seating, plus a spacious bathroom with a shower and separate bathtub. Note that there are two smoking floors -- the 15th and 20th levels. 

This hotel offers a good array of features -- though it lacks a spa -- but the clear standout is the rooftop infinity pool. It's large enough for swimming laps, and has great views of the city and Indian Ocean beyond. There are padded loungers and some armchairs surrounding it, but they're limited. Next to the pool is a modern gym with cardio and strength-training equipment, plus free weights. The main restaurant, Flavoured, is a casual space with panoramic windows. It serves a buffet or a la carte breakfast and a la carte fare for lunch and dinner. Stirred is the lobby-level bar that's open 24/7, offering alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as an extensive food menu. The rooftop bar, Cloud Red, is a popular spot due to its magnificent views. It opens early evening, and provides cocktails and tapas. It's worth noting that during our visit, the club-like music playing here was quite loud, and won't be to everyone's taste. Room service is not available.A two-computer business center has a printer, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.