Escape to Paradise: Shalimar Hotel Colombo's Unforgettable Luxury
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this review of the Shalimar Hotel Colombo is gonna be… well, let's just say it's gonna be me, unfiltered. Forget that dry, corporate garbage – this is real hotel review time, and honestly, I’m still dreaming of that pool. Let's get started.
(SEO ALERT: We're gonna sprinkle in some keywords like "Luxury Colombo Hotel", "Accessible Hotel Sri Lanka", "Shalimar Hotel Reviews", "Colombo Accommodation", "Luxury Spa Hotel Colombo" to juice up the online visibility, but mostly, it's about spilling the tea).
First Impressions & The "OMG I Need a Cocktail" Moment
Okay, arriving at the Shalimar… it’s Colombo, so you’re expecting a bit of chaos, right? Honking tuk-tuks, the aroma of curries swirling in the air, the general buzz. The Shalimar, though? It's like stepping into a different dimension. A serene, beautifully decorated dimension. Seriously, the lobby alone is enough to make you breathe a sigh of pure, unadulterated joy. The staff, bless their hearts, are unbelievably friendly. They had a smile that said, "Yes, you deserve this." Which, after the travel day, felt absolutely spot-on.
Accessibility: Can Everyone Get In On This Paradise?
Now, I got to be honest, I'm not personally using a wheelchair but I’ve always been very impressed with the ability of the hotel to accommodate people with disabilities. They have elevators (very important!), and they've clearly put thought into making the place accessible. I saw it firsthand during my stay and it's impressive. The hallways are wide, and the rooms are thoughtfully designed. (More on the rooms later). Based on what I was able to observe and the details they provide, it seems like the Shalimar aims for true inclusivity. Bravo.
(SEO FACTOR: Definitely a plus for search terms like "Wheelchair accessible hotel Colombo" and "Accessible hotel Sri Lanka".)
Rooms: My Personal Sanctuary… and a Few Minor Gripes
Remember that moment of pure bliss in the lobby? Well, the room amplifies it. I got the “superior room,” (I'm pretty sure it was a step above the standard, and worth it). The AC was blasting icy goodness (thank god), the blackout curtains were LIFE-SAVERS. (Jet lag is a beast, people). The bed was, and I'm not exaggerating, like sleeping on a cloud made of kittens. Seriously.
I loved the little touches: complimentary tea (essential!), a mini-bar stocked with goodies, a safe, a desk that was actually usable (unlike some hotels… cough, cough).
The bathroom? Gorgeous. Seriously. The shower had amazing water pressure. And the towels? Fluffy. Really, really fluffy. They have all amenities you would expect.
BUT, and there's always a "but,"…The wifi in my room was a little spotty at times. It was frustrating when I tried to update my Instagram stories. BUT the hotel staff fixed the problem quickly. Also, no complaints overall.
(SEO: Definitely include "Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" in your research because that is something people look for.)
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: The Food Coma Cometh
Let me tell you about the breakfast. The breakfast. They had a buffet with everything: Waffles, cereals, fresh fruit (so much fresh fruit!!!), curry, omelettes made to order, the works. But the real star was the Asian breakfast options. The Sri Lankan dishes were fragrant, flavorful, and just… chef's kiss. I may or may not have eaten my weight in hoppers.
They also had a coffee shop for my caffeine cravings (critical!). And the poolside bar? Heaven.
(STREAM OF CONSCIOUSNESS ALERT: The food at the hotel was one of my favorite things! I’m not even a huge buffet gal but the one at Shalimar was amazing. I did have a bowl of ice-cream at the snack bar and it was great in the evening. They also gave me a complimentary bottle of water in the room.)
Relaxation Central: Spa Days and Poolside Bliss
Okay, the pool. Let's talk about the pool. It's not just a pool; it's an experience. The view is spectacular. And the water… perfectly cool and refreshing. I spent a solid afternoon just floating around, reading my book, and pretending I didn't have a care in the world.
I also splurged on a massage at the spa. (Hey, you only live once, right?). They had a spa/sauna and steamroom. I opted for a deep tissue, and wow. They worked out all the knots in my shoulders, it was truly incredible. My masseuse was amazing. Best massage of my life. Seriously.
(SEO: Definitely include key phrases like "Luxury Spa Hotel Colombo", "Pool with a view", "Massage Colombo".)
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Secure
In these times, this is a biggie. The Shalimar takes hygiene seriously. I saw staff constantly disinfecting common areas, and they had hand sanitizers everywhere. They were clearly following all the necessary protocols. It made me feel safe and secure. They also had all types of hygiene protocol measures implemented.
Things to Do: Beyond the Hotel Walls
Okay, so, Colombo itself is a city of wonders. But I'm not going to lie, I spent most of my time at the hotel. They do offer airport transfers, car parks, and other services. They had everything I needed.
(This is where I'd probably add some notes about day trips, but, honestly, the idea of leaving that pool… shudder.)
The Nitty-Gritty: Services, Conveniences, and the Stuff You Need to Know
They had a 24-hour front desk (essential!), a doorman (always a nice touch), luggage storage (I used it!), and currency exchange (super helpful). I didn't use the babysitting service, but it was nice to know it was there. There's a gift shop (I bought some souvenirs), and they even offer dry cleaning and laundry service (another win!). Meeting/banquet facilities are available too.
(Honestly, I didn't check out the business facilities, because, hello, vacation mode. But it's good to know they have them.)
For the Kids:
They are family friendly. I saw a lot of families.
Getting Around:
Easy. Airport transfer, car park, taxi services, whatever you need.
In all Rooms:
Everything.
The Imperfections:
The Wi-Fi wasn't always perfect.
Overall Vibe: Pure Paradise
Okay, so, the Shalimar Hotel Colombo? It’s not just a place to stay; it’s an experience. It's a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s a place where you can relax, recharge, and actually feel pampered.
My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. I would absolutely go back, if only to spend another afternoon in that pool.
My Anecdote/Quirky Observation:
One morning, I was at breakfast, and I saw this little kid, probably about 4 years old, absolutely devouring a waffle with syrup. Syrup everywhere, on his face, on his hands, on the table. He was just in pure, unadulterated waffle bliss. That kid? He got it. That's the Shalimar experience in a nutshell. Pure bliss.
ARE YOU READY TO ESCAPE TO PARADISE? Let the Shalimar Hotel Colombo whisk you away to a world of unparalleled luxury and unforgettable moments!
Book your stay NOW, and receive:
- 10% discount on all spa treatments.
- Complimentary welcome drinks upon arrival.
- Free upgrade to a room with a balcony (subject to availability).
Use code "SHALIMARESCAPE" at checkout. Don’t delay… your slice of paradise awaits!
Yogyakarta's Hidden Gem: Omah Pari Boutique Hotel Review (5-Star!)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this itinerary isn't going to be your cookie-cutter, perfectly-planned travelogue. This is me, stumbling through Shalimar Hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka, with a healthy dose of chaos and questionable decisions. Let's see if we survive, shall we?
The Shalimar Shenanigans - Colombo Chaos
Day 1: Arrival and Initial Panic
- 14:00 - Arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB): Ugh, the flight. Let's just say my carry-on now smells mildly of airplane peanuts and existential dread. Finding a tuk-tuk… well, that was a sweaty negotiation marathon. I think I overpaid. I know I overpaid. But the driver smiled a lot, and honestly, after 20 hours of traveling, I'd have paid him in my firstborn.
- 16:00 - Shalimar Hotel Check-in - (Room 307): Okay, first impressions. The lobby is gorgeous - all gleaming wood and what I think are hand-painted murals. Then I hit Room 307. Small. Let's just say "cozy." The air conditioning sounds like a dying walrus. And the view? Well, I'm pretty sure I'm eye to eye with the air duct. Oh, and there's this tiny gecko clinging to the wall near the bathroom. I named him "Steve." He's my new, slightly judgmental roommate.
- 17:00 - Exploring the Hotel - The Grand Tour…and Near-Disaster: Found the pool! It's actually quite lovely, a little oasis of calm. Took the elevator down. It stopped. No, not just stopped. Stuck. For, like, a solid fifteen minutes. Cue the claustrophobic panic. I'm now pretty sure the emergency button summons the hotel's resident ghost, who might be more helpful than the actual staff. Eventually, rescue arrived. Now I'm wondering if it's safe to even breathe in this building.
- 19:00 - Dinner at Hotel Restaurant (The Taste of Sri Lanka?- more like taste of…something): Okay, this is where things went downhill. Ordered the "traditional Sri Lankan curry." It arrived looking vibrant and smelling divine. Then I took a bite. My mouth exploded. I think someone accidentally swapped the chili powder for nuclear waste. Tears streamed down my face. I swear I saw Steve the Gecko flinch. I bravely ate a second bite, then gracefully surrendered to the waiter, who looked both amused and slightly concerned. I think I'll stick to plain rice and papaya.
- 20:30 - Bedtime - The Walrus Sighs: Trying to sleep. The AC is still a walrus, and the city’s symphony of horns and hawkers is making it hard to focus. Found the internet, and let me just say, the Wi-Fi is only slightly better than carrier pigeons. Trying to fall asleep. I'm starting to think Steve the Gecko might lead a more fulfilling life than I am right now.
Day 2: Colombo Unleashed (Mostly on Me)
- 07:00 - Wake Up with Steve - (The Gecko's Philosophical Observations): Steve is still there, watching me. I swear I saw him blink slowly, as if to say, "So, the curry incident didn't kill you?" Breakfast. Ordered toast, safe and sound.
- 09:00 - Exploring Colombo - The Pettah Market (Prepare Thyself!): Holy Mother of Markets! This place is sensory overload. The smells! The sounds! The sheer, unadulterated chaos! I got jostled, bumped, and nearly run over by a motorcycle carrying what looked like a mountain of coconuts. Loved it. Absolutely loved it. Almost bought a fake Rolex. Decided against it. Regrets, I have a few.
- 11:00 - Gangaramaya Temple Visit - (Finding my zen…or not): The temple was beautiful, all gleaming gold and intricate carvings. I even managed to meditate for a whole five minutes before a flock of pigeons decided my head was the ideal landing spot. I'm not sure how zen I truly am.
- 12:30 - Lunch - (Trying a little "street food". Don't tell my mother! or my stomach): Found a little stall serving something they called "kottu roti." It looked…questionable. But I was starving, and the guy selling it looked genuinely happy, so I went for it. It was amazing! A glorious mess of chopped roti, vegetables, and spices. Seriously, best thing I've eaten all day.
- 14:00 - The Viharamahadevi Park - (Contemplation…or naptime?): Wandered through the park. It’s peaceful, green, a real escape from the bustle. Found a bench, sat. Started to feel relaxed, then a monkey stole my mango. I’m not sure I’ll see it in retrospect.
- 15.00 - National Museum - (Gearing up for the culture): Spent an hour wandering by these dusty and slightly damaged exhibits. I am definitely feeling the effects of jet lag now!
- 17:00 - Back to the Hotel - (The Great Pool Escape): The pool calls. The walrus AC in my room keeps me prisoner in my room. The internet is a disaster. I could barely type this sentence, and am now at a 50% chance of survival.
- 19:00 - Dinner - Hotel Restaurant (The "Safe" Plan - or NOT): Chicken and rice, no spice, to play it safe. The chicken tasted like it had been seasoned with sadness and disappointment. Guess I should have ordered the curry….
- 20:00 - Final Attempt at Sleep - (Walrus AC Strikes Back): The world keeps on spinning at 1000 miles per hour. Trying to sleep. Maybe Steve the Gecko has some advice. (Nope, he's just judging me). Can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Send chocolate. And perhaps a miracle.
Day 3: The Shalimar "Experience" - A Grand Finale (Probably)
- 07:00 - Waking Up with Steve (The Conclusion!): After all these late nights, there is a chance this is the last day. I am sure Steve had some words of wisdom, like "Good Luck!" as I am being checked out.
- 09:00 - Check out and head to the airport (bye Shalimar!): The hotel staff seems happy to say goodbye. I am sure. I am happy to leave. I am off to the airport.
(Post-Trip Notes - A Rambling Epilogue)
So, yeah, Shalimar Hotel. It wasn't perfect. In fact, at times, it was downright bonkers. But you know, it was real. It was messy. It was hilarious (mostly in retrospect, and after the curry). And that's what made it memorable. Colombo itself? A whirlwind of smells, sounds, and surprises. Would I go back? Absolutely. Would I stay at the Shalimar again? Maybe. If they fixed the air conditioning, at least. And perhaps offered a slightly less nuclear-powered curry option. And maybe, just maybe, if Steve the Gecko promised to stop staring. (He probably won't.)
Escape to Paradise: Unbeatable Bali Bungalows Await!
Escape to Paradise: Shalimar Hotel Colombo - The Unfiltered Truth (and Maybe a Little Madness)
Okay, Is the Shalimar Actually Paradise? Be Honest (and I Want the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly)?
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because "paradise" is a strong word. Shalimar in Colombo? It's... complicated. Look, the glossy brochures? They're lying to you (in a pretty, well-lit way). Here's the deal: sometimes it felt like paradise. Sunrise from my balcony? Stunning. That first sip of iced tea after the monsoon-level downpour? Divine. But then... the AC decided it was a sunbather and took a break. And the "ocean view" I paid extra for? Technically, yes, I could see a sliver of the sea... if I squinted... and a few buildings weren't in the way. So, Paradise? Nah. Excellent escape from the Colombo chaos? Absolutely.
The Rooms: What's REALLY Up With 'Em? (Size, Cleanliness, and That Mysterious Smell!)
Ah, the rooms. The beating heart of any hotel experience, right? Okay, here comes some truth bombs. Size? Depends. Some are sprawling, like a tiny apartment. Others? Cozy. *Cough* Small. *Cough*. Cleanliness? Generally, decent. But let's be honest, I'm a bit of a germaphobe so I made sure to wipe down every surface with a Clorox wipe, just in case. And that mysterious smell? YES! I swear, I think it’s a mix of old wood, cinnamon, and maybe... a hint of jasmine? Honestly, it took me a couple of days to decide if I loved it or if it was trying to tell me something vital about the hotel's past. Verdict? It grew on me. Made it feel, I don’t know, lived in? Or maybe I just got used to it.
The Food. The All Important Food. How's the Grub, and Should I Get a Stomach Protector?
Oh, the food! Honestly, it's... hit or miss. Breakfast was usually a win. Those little hoppers (think savory pancakes) with coconut sambal? Heavenly. But the omelets... well, let's just say they were consistently inconsistent. One day, it was a fluffy, cloud-like masterpiece. The next? A rubbery, sad excuse for an egg. Lunch and dinner? The local options were much better! The seafood on the menu was excellent, fresh and oh so flavourful!. Now, should you get a stomach protector? I'd say, YES. Better safe than sorry when you're trying new spices. I learned the hard way on my first trip to Sri Lanka! (that was an experience. Never again.)
Is the pool as glamorous as it seems in the Photos? (Because let's be real, those angles are EVERYTHING!)
THE POOL. Okay, let's talk about the pool. Yeah, it's pretty. The photos don't lie. But the angles… well, they hide a few things. Like, the fact that it gets crowded during peak times. Or the slight (and I mean slight) chlorine smell that sometimes hits you. And the fact that I almost slipped on the wet tiles and took a swan dive into the deep end while trying to look effortlessly cool. (I wasn’t; it was incredibly awkward). But, overall? Yes, it's a lovely place to swim. Just, you know, wear nonslip shoes and be prepared for reality to be a bit less pristine than Instagram suggests. (And maybe avoid trying to look cool. Seriously, just don't.)
