Dickman Resort

The Dickman Resort's gay-friendly and design-conscious attitudes combine to create a stunning boutique that's colorful at every turn. A tiny sign marks the orange-and-pink gated entrance, which leads to a koi pond under a wood-vaulted pathway and then an open-air reception. The high-ceilinged lobby features a billiards table, red and blue walls, and a rainbow-colored shade against the stone desk. There, friendly staff will provide a welcome drink and rundown of the property, and the owner is frequently around to chat and give local advice. As its only a nine-room boutique, the grounds aren't extensive, but they're certainly lovely -- multiple benches and chairs are set on the rocky garden, amid palm trees and quirky frog and donkey-head sculptures. Every area seems to have been thoughtfully planned, from the pool wall's mirror flanked by blue doors that gives the illusion of the pool continuing farther, to the outdoor restaurant's wicker chairs topped with tree trunk-patterned cushions. The adult-only policy means most guests are couples or solo travelers. This is one of the best options in the city for those that are willing to sacrifice beach views and agree to the two-night minimum stay.

Dickman Resort is located on a side street in Negombo that's mostly quiet -- though there may be barking from stray dogs heard at night. The entrance is not well-marked -- just a tiny sign on the corner of a gate -- so look out for an orange and pink exterior. It's just a few minutes' walk to the main road, which is lined by restaurants, hotels, and shops, and has the beach on the other side. The beaches are public in Negombo, so travelers can walk five minutes to a public entrance -- though it should be noted that the water is often too rough for swimming and the sand can often be littered with trash. The hotel is conveniently located a 25-minute drive from the country's main airport, Bandaranaike International Airport. Tuk-tuks are a popular and inexpensive way to travel in Sri Lanka, and can be hailed off the main road, or the staff can call one for guests. 

The playful yet chic trappings continue into the nine rooms, eight of which are named after colors and one which is called the Mango Suite. Each room has furnishings in a color scheme that reflect its name, utilizing lots of wood, painted concrete floors, and hand-crafted objects. All rooms have two twin beds pushed together, topped with quality sheets and throw pillows, as well as seating areas and desks. Other amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, DVD players and a collection of DVDs, minibars, two free water bottles, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and a welcome tray of tropical fruit. Every room has big windows, while those on the top floor also have furnished balconies overlooking the pool or garden. The Green Room is the smallest, while the three suites -- Blue, Red, and Mango -- are the largest. A few of the bathrooms are outdoors, but all have showers or shower/tub combos, sleek glass sinks, hairdryers, and a full range of toiletries; the Blue and Red Suites also have jetted tubs. Wi-Fi is free and there's a knob by every bed that turns on music played throughout the property. 

As expected with boutique properties, there's little in the way of facilities at the Dickman Resort. The freshwater pool is lovely, though, surrounded by yellow-cushioned loungers, umbrellas, and a cabana with shades that can be lowered. This area flows into the garden with benches and a hammock. The reception area has a pool table and adjacent cabinet filled with books for borrow. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.Breakfast is included in the room rate and consists of a large plate of fruit for the first course and a choice of eggs for the second course served alongside toast, coffee, tea, and juice. The restaurant serves food only until early evening, but there are many eateries within walking distance. Guests can also order cocktails or non-alcoholic drinks poolside.The hotel can provide airport transportation for a fee, as well as arrange excursions.