Villa Araliya

Tucked away on a side street off the main beachside road in Negombo, Villa Araliya has a peaceful atmosphere, enhanced by the small number of rooms. The property is owned by a family that lives nearby, and they're often on-site interacting with guests. You're also likely to spot the several dogs and cats that they've adopted (strays are a large problem in Sri Lanka), which may be a pro of con for some. The charming grounds are a mix of stone paths, vine-covered trellises, and Frangipani trees. Visitors are a mix of low-key couples and families with young kids that are usually splashing around in the pools. It's worth noting that the hotel has a cash-only policy, even when paying for rooms, which could be an inconvenience. For a more stylish boutique experience, consider Dickman Resort, or check out Jetwing Sea if an ocean-view room is a necessity. 

For travelers who don't mind not being directly along the beach, Villa Araliya offers an excellent location that's quiet, yet near the area's main attractions. The beach in Negombo is public and not the most impressive, due to trash and rough waters that aren't often suitable for swimming, but it's a quick five-minute walk away for visitors who would like to see it. Numerous restaurants, bars, and shops are within a short walk of the hotel, including The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, which is six minutes away. An ATM is 12 minutes away on foot. Negombo generally sees travelers who have just arrived in or are about to depart Sri Lanka, given its proximity to the country's main international airport. In fact, Bandaranaike International Airport is only a 25-minute drive from the hotel. Tuk-tuks are the main mode of transportation here, or staff can order cabs.

The 14 spacious rooms are simple in design, consisting of terra-cotta tile or concrete floors, wooden furniture, and a color palette of white and either orange or green. Some have attractive decor such as antique armoires, metal celestial sculptures, and throw pillows with elephant motifs, but others are bare-bones and showing wear. All have canopies over the beds to keep bugs out, plus air-conditioning, ceiling fans, safes, and private patios or balconies with furniture. Suites add separate sitting areas and kitchenettes that include mini-fridges, stovetops, coffee- and tea-making facilities, and ovens. Unfortunately, we couldn't find pots or pans when we visited. Two larger Apartments have full-size fridges and two floors. Bathrooms across the board are simple and showing signs of age, outfitted with showers or shower/tub combos. Wall-mounted soap dispensers are provided, and hairdryers are available upon request. Wi-Fi is free, but there are no TVs. 

Facilities are limited to a few outdoor amenities. The highlight is a decent-sized pool with wooden loungers on one side and uncomfortable stone sunbeds on the other. One end of the pool leads to the open-air reception area, which houses a table and chairs, books to borrow, and a map of Sri Lanka. On the other side of the pool is the restaurant under a wood-vaulted ceiling. The small space serves vegetarian fare consisting of local Sri Lankan dishes and Italian cuisine such as pasta and pizza. Note that dining hours are limited. Wi-Fi is free throughout and there are some toys for kids to play with as well.