Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Center, Kosgoda Sri Lanka

Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Center

On a recent visit to Sri Lanka one of the highlights was a visit to the Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Center, Sri Lanka's pioneering sea turtle conservation project. Here I saw different kinds of turtles that are seen on the shores of Sri Lanka.

I saw lots of turtle eggs which had been placed under sand in a secure environment until they were ready to hatch and released back to the sea and baby turtles in water tanks. This is done to protect them from predators and poachers. There also have few turtles which have some physical disabilities and wounds caused by plastic and netting.

Their mission is to work for the conservation of sea turtle and extend the knowledge over the world. Their vision is to save the sea turtle for the future.

Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Center

My tour guide had good English and explained about sea turtle life, what they do to support them, and showed me different types of turtles, some of them are very rare in the wild. the money from the entrance tickets and donations help support the project. There is a gift shop with proceeds going to help operate the project.

A visit to the Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Center provides lots of information about why Sri Lanka (and the village of Kosgoda in particular) is a prime turtle nesting site, why the conservation project is needed and how the project is operated by local people with the help of international volunteers.

Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Center

The lifetime dedication of the Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Center is to make it easy to protect and conserve Sri Lanka’s wildlife and its habitats particularly endangered species, especially the turtle. The main goal is to save nature for the future by leading, facilitating and encouraging human beings to save, conserve and enhance the environment including national habitats, flora and fauna. They aim to motivate people to take actions for conservation in every way for the preservation of flora fauna biodiversity and the natural environment.

The turtles native to Sri Lanka can be seen here, including the common Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Loggerhead Turtle, Olive Ridley Turtle and Leatherback Turtle.

HISTORY IN BRIEF
This hatchery started 1978 as the first Turtle Hatchery in Sri Lanka founded by Dr. Upen de Silva & Dr. R. S. B Wickremsinghe.

Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Center

A guest from a Swidish Camera Company had taken a photo of a sea turtle nearby this nape, Kosgoda beach and had informed Dr. Silva about the species. After that they came to meet Mr. K.S Abrew and followed a way to find sea turtles. Firstly, a square was established just ion the naked seashore and kept all the eggs in it and they were vigilant on that. It was a wonder at that era and tiny turtles came out and went to the sea. This wonderful incident was informed to the Camera Company which was in Sweeden. In 1980, Dr. Upendra Silava and Dr. Wickramasingha contacted Swidish Camera Company and got funds to obtain this land for conservation purpose and Mr. K.S Abrew was appointed to be the in charge and the care taker of this turtle conservation place.

At that moment Mr. K.C Abrew was a teenage of 17s and followed his father’s footsteps and dedicated whole life, time, energy and skills to continue and develop the conservation center up to date. Luckily at the moment Mr. K.S Abrew is proudly running his hatchery with the help of his one and only son Mr. K.I Abrew for the future always giving their honor to Dr. Upendra, Dr. Wicramasinghe and that lucky cameramen of Swedish Camera Company. Founders: Mr. K.S Abrew, Dr. Upendra Silva, Dr. Wickramasinghe

Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Center

WHY THEY ARE ASTONISHING

• Tagging
• They own the pure records of White Sea turtle
• Great recognition and place for worldwide volunteers
• Beautiful and clean beach experienceThey possess very old records of sea turtle
• Healing and Rescuing sea turtles
• Release of the highest record up to 4 and half million turtles
• Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Center, Kosgoda is the 1st turtle conservation center established in Sri Lanka in 1978.

THEIR SERVICES

• Educational programmes for school children
• Awareness raising for public
• Experience for Volunteers
• Certification for worldwide volunteers
• Turtle releasing events for special life events (as request)

BE A VOLUNTEER
Residential or part-time Volunteers for an agreed upon time period are welcome at the Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Center, Kosgoda. Here volunteers can learn, get live experience with turtles, live movements, photography, knowledge sharing and do researches and experiments as well.

Being a volunteer at the hatchery will be an honour to anyone in accordance with the range of knowledge and experience earned. They provide a world accepted valid certificate to all volunteers after completing their successful voluntary service period.

HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT?
Protecting eggs and buying eggs from dealers is not an easy task specifically fixing a money rate. But they need to conserve sea turtles for the future and need your help and encouragement to continue this hard mission. You can help them by-

• Donating
• Pyblicising the conservation center
• Sending them more volunteers
• Sending them more visitors
• Promoting their center for researchers etc.

Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Center

Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research and Conservation Center

School Lane, Nape (Behind the Police Station) Kosgoda, Sri Lanka.
Phone: +94 71 7879928
Email: info@htrcc.info

Website: http://www.htrcc.info/index.html

Lazy Days Lie in Wait for You at Heritance Ahungalla

Heritance Ahungalla

A boundless blue – where does it begin, or even end: the pool, beyond the sea or the sky. And don’t the blues come in subtle hues… cerulean, turquoise, and azure. Points to ponder, as the sun glimmers off the ripples you make when you first dip your toes into the water and raise a toast to life.

Lazy days lie in wait for you at Heritance Ahungalla, where time will seem to slip into infinity – much like the views that line the South Coast of Sri Lanka. Beach hotels on this spectacular shoreline are plenty, but you have found a one of a kind treasure. Welcome to true indulgence.

Heritance Ahungalla is located on a prized expanse of a sandy beach in Ahungalla, 76 km from Sri Lanka ‘s capital Colombo. The Heritance Ahungalla hotel is Sri Lanka's first-ever 5-star beach resort. Heritance Ahungalla Hotel’s blissful privacy is provided by the thick coconut groves on two sides of the property and the watery depths of the Indian Ocean on the 3rd. Heritance Ahungalla is in a small fishing town of Ahungalla and its neighbour Ambalangoda boast idyllic palm-fringed fine golden sand beaches lapped by warm aquamarine water.

Heritance Ahungalla

Heritance Ahungalla combines style and substance in delivering a sensational holiday experience. As the turquoise infinity pool blends into the Indian ocean, award-winning cuisine fuses the best of the east and the west. The Heritance Ahungalla weaves a little magic into guests holidays while honouring their promise of the finest in hospitality and exceptional service.

The distance from the Bandaranaike International Airport is 121 km and the time is 2 hours and 7 minutes.

Guest Rooms

A range of quality guest rooms is available at the Heritance Ahungalla, including 32 Deluxe rooms,  60 Deluxe Ocean Front, 36 Deluxe Premier, 15 Luxury, 5 Suites and 4 Luxury Suites.

Room Facilities

Tea/Coffee Makers, Flat Screen TV with cable channels, IDD Telephones, Mini-Bar, Electronic Safe, Free Wi-Fi, Rain-Shower, Hair Dryer, 24-hour room service, Free toiletries and a  Laundry Service

Pools

Heritance Ahungalla has 2 beautiful swimming pools to while away your hours. Towels, sunbeds and sun umbrellas are provided. One is an infinity pool, the other is a secluded pool with poolside bar.

Stay Experience
Fitness centre, Parking Access for differently-abled guests, Wellness Tennis court, Wi-Fi connectivity, Kids club, Indoor and outdoor games, Daily entertainment, theme nights / dinners, Putting green, Library and Shopping arcade. The Orpheus Karaoke & Night Club is open every Saturday night.

Heritance Ahungalla

Dining

• Jute Restaurant - is named after the batik fabric on the ceiling. It has full-length glass windows overlooking the lush grounds of Heritance Ahungalla. It is famous for its exotic aromas, soothing garden views and sumptuous buffets with delectable fare from around the world. On my recent visit to Sri Lanka I enjoyed my lunch in the Jute Restaurant. It serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• Mustard Coffee Shop - a 24-hour cafe offers a wide-ranging à la carte menu including delicious food and gourmet coffees
• Upper Room Restaurant - a fine dining restaurant that blends cultural influences from around the globe and has an extensive wine list from around the world. Open 7 to 10pm.
• The 4 Bars at the Heritance Ahungalla (Bacchus Bar, Apollo Bar, Pool Bar, and Wall Bar) serve a wide selection of cocktails, wine and beer.

Diviyan (Coco) Spa
The spa menu is extensive offering massage therapies, body treatments, facials and nail care. The treatment rooms include two doubles for couples, a manicure/pedicure room, a steam room and sauna, and an open-air jacuzzi. The Spa provides professional expertise, professional treatments and professional products.

Heritance Ahungalla

Events
All corporate retreats, outings and events held at Heritance Ahungalla are carried out with zest and professionalism. There are 2 conference halls (Congress hall, & Mini conference hall) that can be used for a range of functions with a variety of seating arrangements.   Beach wedding dreams come true on the golden sandy beaches of the romantic Heritance wedding hotel.

Excursions
There’s plenty to see in the local area, especially for nature lovers. Guests can visit the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery to learn what it is doing to help save local turtles, or they can on a river trip on the Madu Ganga to see mangrove forests and prawn fishermen. Alternatively, guests can take to the sea to go whale watching or go on a cycling tour.

Heritance Ahungalla was designed by architect Geoffrey Bawa who designed it to blend in with its natural surroundings. Guests can visit the Lunuganga Garden, Geoffrey Bawa’s own estate for 50 years, which is now open to the public.

Bevis Bawa, brother of Heritance Ahungalla architect Geoffrey Bawa, converted a former rubber plantation into a wonderful series of landscaped gardens. The Brief Garden is now open to the public. Many statues and artwork dotted throughout the garden are Bawa’s own work. The Australian artist Donald Friend is also well represented.

Heritance Ahungalla

Offers

Check out the hotel's website to take advantage of special offers. Currently, they have a Last Minute Offer with savings of 35%, an Online Offer with a 30% saving, and a Book Early, Save Big Offer with  a saving of 35%.

Heritance Ahungalla

Galle Road, Ahungalla, Sri Lanka
Tel : +94 91 5555 000
Fax : +94 91 5555 050

Email : ha.ebiz.lk@aitkenspence.lk
Website :  https://www.heritancehotels.com/ahungalla/

Ambalangoda Mask Factory and Museum

Mask making is a popular tradition in Sri Lanka.  Ambalangoda is known as a centre for antiques and masks.

At the Mask Museum many types of masks can be seen. Some are more than 200 years old. Most are made from kaduru, a light, pliable wood similar to balsa. After carving, the masks were traditionally sanded using rough leaves or shark skin.

Masks are used for several purposes in Sri Lanka. As well as featuring in traditional dance, drama and comedies, and in large pageants and processions, they are also used in ceremonies to exorcise demons or cure illnesses.

The Museum has a collection of traditional masks & related artifacts, plus a workshop, store & library. The museum also contains several puppets, made from the same type of wood and manipulated with strings. The average height of traditional puppets is around 4 feet, but those representing royalty or nobility are taller and heavier. Puppet shows are accompanied by music on the drum and seraphina, as well as singing.

It is a good museum with explanations in English. Visitors can get a tour from one of the workers who explain the meaning of many different masks, the reasons behind them and the dances that were performed by the wearers. Outside there's a small workshop with a handful of staff carving/painting new masks. Each mask is handmade with incredible attention to detail.

It's a small museum and free to enter although they do appreciate donations, There is a gift shop attached to the Museum with a great variety of wood carvings and masks on sale. They also sell puppets, musical instruments, and key rings.

Ambalangoda Mask Factory and Museum

Open: 8: 30 to 17:30

426 Main Street, Ambalangoda 80300, Sri Lanka

Jetwing Beach Hotel - Laze upon the Sandy Shores of Negombo

Jetwing Beach Negombo Lobby

Jetwing Beach is the landmark property of Jetwing Hotels designed by internationally renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. The hotel is a wonderful example of Sri Lankan design amidst a tropical paradise. The Jetwing Beach Hotel lies nestled among the palm trees, along a beautiful sun-kissed beach in the coastal town of Negombo.

Guest Rooms
Guests staying at the Jetwing Beach hotel are transported to an ultramarine world of colourful interiors where each of the rooms opens out to a large private balcony or terrace with panoramic views out onto the Indian Ocean

Star class comfort and plush living is what you can expect when you stay at the Jetwing Beach Hotel. The hotel has 78 luxurious rooms to for guests to enjoy, including 3 suites with Butler Service and 75 deluxe rooms. Of these 55 are double rooms, 20 are twin rooms and 6 are interconnecting rooms, They all have a relaxed atmosphere with luxurious earthen tones.

Room Facilities

Jetwing Beach Negombo Beach Sun & Shade

• minibar
• DVD / CD player
• tea / coffee making facilities
• bottled water
• electronic safe
• iron and ironing board
• a large flat-screen TV with international and local channels
• central air conditioning with individual temperature controls
• telephone with idd facility, plus a telephone in the bathroom all rooms have a private terrace or balcony with a clear view of the Indian Ocean
• the bathroom has a bathtub and a separate rain shower enclosure with hot and cold running water, hairdryer, magnifying shaving mirror, bathrobe and slippers, shoehorn, umbrella, torch and shopping bag

The Suites have the additional facilities of an exclusive lounge or sitting area, a personalised Butler Service, a long balcony with a daybed, and an open courtyard or patio equipped with rain shower, jacuzzi and 2 sunbeds.

Dining
Dining options at Jetwing Beach are diverse as they are exquisite. There is a good choice of restaurants including:

• The Sands is an open-air dining restaurant that looks out into the horizon over the Indian Ocean. The Sands specialises in mouthwatering seafood delicacies.
• Black Coral is an exemplary fine dining restaurant that serves a range of local and international cuisine
• Terrace Bar is the ideal respite for a tropical cocktail or a fine wine from the in-house cellar.
• The Deck is the sophisticated beachside café with an extensive menu to keep guests refreshed with snacks and beverages.

Signature Dining experiences can be taken with either a Beach BBQ, Terrace Al Fresco dining under the stars, Sundown cocktails daily, Spa dining, Suite dining, Exotic BBQ, or Under the stars dining 

Jetwing Beach Negombo Pool

Guest Facilities
Jetwing Beach Hotel provides wonderful facilities for its guests including:

• 24-hour room service
• free Wi-Fi
• IDD fax and email
• Doctor on call
• car rental and parking facilities
• laundry and dry-cleaning
• daily housekeeping
• postal facilities
• left luggage facility
• wine cellar
• daily newspaper
• Spa Ceylon store
• Careem's Gem and Jewellery shop

Sports & Entertainment
Leisure Options at the Jetwing Beach hotel include a choice of 2 swimming pools, open-air tennis court, modern gymnasium, a spa offering a range of luxury spa treatments and professional water sports between November and April.

Jetwing Beach Negombo Conference Hall

Conference Facilities
The large conference hall is 137 square metres in size and has a capacity of 100 people in theatre style,l 60 people in classroom style, 40 in a U-shape , 40 in a boardroom style and 50 in a cluster style. There's also a Breakout Room of 69 square metres

Audio Visual Equipment
The perfect conference or business event can be assisted with a multimedia system (computer, video players, conference calling, white screen, LCD TV, DVD player and overhead projector), a Magi board, flip chart and markers, and a public address system (podium FM wireless mics, table mics, clip-on mics, a laser pointer). Conference kits and recording facilities for audio and video are available on request.

Outdoor Activities and Excursions
Negombo serves as a convenient base to explore a number of unique destinations that showcase the diverse heritage of our tropical isle. Many options are available at the Jetwing Beach Hotel to explore the surrounding area. 

Jetwing Beach Negombo - Marco Polo Quote

There are Bird Trails to see the large variety of birds in a Bird Sanctuary, Mangrove, Wetland or Rainforest. Religious visits to churches, temples and monasteries can be made. National Parks can be visited, including one with an Elephant Orphanage.

Diving can be done on nearby shipwrecks or coral reefs. Archaeological sites can be visited for those interested in ancient history. Sports fishing can be done in the Indian Ocean or for those would like their fish already caught, fish can be purchased at the Lellama Fish Market For those with a full day to fill in, full-day excursions can be made to Kandy, to the Galle Fort, or on a Dolphin Watch Tour. Other excursions can be made on a Negombo Dutch Fort and City Tour, by taking a boat ride on the Dutch Canal, going down to Colombo for a City Tour, hopping on a bicycle for a Bicycle Tour, or by taking part in one of the Water Sports at the professional water sports centre.

Location
Negombo is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular beach destinations on the island’s northwestern coast. Jetwing Beach Hotel is a mere 12 kilometres (20 minutes drive) from the Bandaranaike Nike International Airport. Columbo is just a 43 km drive away. The hotel is set in 2.5 acres of landscaped gardens.

Weather
The temperature in Negombo fluctuates from 24 degrees to 30 degrees Celsius.

Jetwing Beach Negombo Pool

Jetwing Beach Hotel
Ethukale, Negombo, Sri Lanka
Reservations +94 11 4709400
Hotel +94 31 22 79000-3
Fax +94 11 2345729
General Manager Hyacinth Gunawardena
Email resv.beach@jetwinghotels.com
Website www.jetwinghotels.com

Jetwing Blue - Once A Home, Always A Home in Negombo, Sri Lanka

Jetwing Blue Negombo

Situated along the captivating golden sandy shores of Negombo, Jetwing Blue offers it's guests delightful experiences together with luxury accommodation. It has been transformated from a 6-room coastal villa to a 120-room Negombo beach hotel.

Located in the Negombo city, on a pristine stretch of beach, Jetwing Blue encapsulates the splendour of this exotic town while exploring is tantalising seafood. It prides itself to be a welcoming Sri Lankan home and boasts the only five-star classification in the area. 

Location
Jetwing Blue is a mere 12 kilometres (20 minutes drive) from the Bandaranaike International Airport, while Colombo is just 43 km drive away. The property is on a large 9 acres of landscaped grounds.

Jetwing Blue Negombo

Rooms
Jetwing Blue boasts large spacious rooms defined by modern amenities all set in a minimalist decor of elegance and efficiency. Six types of luxury rooms are available, including 6 suites with a butler service, 3 family rooms, 21 superior deluxe rooms, 80 deluxe rooms and 2 rooms for the differently-abled and 8 annexe rooms. This makes a choice of 120 rooms available at Jetwing Blue, including 23 twin rooms, 85 double rooms and 7 interconnecting rooms.

Jetwing Blue Negombo

Guest Room Facilities

• Room facilities include a host of wonderful features including:
• mini bar
• free wifi
• electronic safe
• king-sized beds
• private Terrace or balcony with views of the Indian Ocean
• central air conditioning with individual temperature controls
• telephone with IDD facility including a telephone in the bathroom
• a 42 inch TV with international and local channels
• tea and coffee making facilities, bottled water
• bathroom with luxury bath tub and separate rain shower enclosure with hot and cold water
• Hairdryer, magnifying shaving mirror, bathrobes & slippers, shoehorn, umbrella torch and shopping bag

Jetwing Blue Negombo

The suites have additional facilities of
exclusive lounge or sitting area
large timber floor balcony with outdoor lounge and jacuzzi overlooking the Indian Ocean
pop up TV
DVD/CD player

Facilities on request include a DVD player, DVD library, cots and baby sitter.

Dining

Jetwing Blue has several dining options available. These include the restaurants and bars of the Kitchen restaurant - an open kitchen offering an extensive à la carte menu or a lavish buffet for breakfast, lunch or dinner

Jetwing Blue Negombo

• Centrepoint Grill & Bar - provides casual all-day dining, extending to the sandy dshores of Negombo’s beach.
• Sushi Bar - offers Japanese delights by the Indian Ocean
• Float Bar - the elegant beachfront bar serving up a range of sophisticated local and international beverages
• Outrigger Bar - is a poolside bar, named after the traditional Oruwa fishing craft that is an iconic characteristic of Negombo’s coastline.
• Cafe J

Special Dining
There are a number of opportunities for special dining such as beach dining, pool dining, suite dining & Spa dining

Jetwing Blue Negombo

Guest Facilities
Jetwing Blue provides many guest facilities, including 24-hour room service, wine cellar, professional childcare centre, doctor on call, car hire and parking facilities, laundry and dry-cleaning, daily housekeeping, postal facilities, left luggage facility, daily newspapers, Bellari Jewellery Shop, and the Spa Ceylon store

Sport & Entertainment 

In your leisure time at Jetwing Blue guests can make use of 2 swimming pools, a modern gymnasium, spa and tennis at Jetwing Beach.

Conference Facility
Jetwing blue has a large ballroom of 785 square metres which is ideal for conferences, exhibitions or weddings. This can be divided into 2 separate spaces. This has a capacity of 800 people in theatre style, 500 banquet style, 350 classroom style, 300 cluster style, 200 U shape style and 80 iin boardroom style. There are several Breakout Rooms, including the 37 sq metres Turquoise Breakup Room and Aquamarine Breakout Room and the 33 sq metres Indigo Breaker Room.

Jetwing Blue Negombo

Audio Visual Equipment
To make your conference or business event a success Jetwing Blue provides a qualityl range of audiovisual equipment. This includes multimedia systems of computers, TV video players, conference call, white screen, LCD TV, DVD player and overhead projector. They also provide magiboard, flip charts and markers, wireless public address system of FM wireless mike, clip-on mikes and podium. Recording facilities for audio and video and conference kits are also provided.

Jetwing Blue Negombo

Outdoor Activities and Excursions 

Jetwing Blue provides many opportunities to explore The Great Outdoors. Bird spotting can be undertaken in visits to Bird Sanctuaries, Mangroves Wetlands and Rainforests. Religious excursions can be made to many historic churches and temples. Visits can be made to the various nearby archaeological sites and National Parks, including visits to the Elephant Orphanage. Diving can be done on Coral Reefs and Shipwrecks, and fishing in the ocean and lagoon. It is possible to take daily excursions to Kandy or Galle Fort or to go dolphin watching. Other excursions include the Dutch Fort and Negombo City Tour, boat rides on the Dutch canal, the Colombo City Tour and Cycle Tours.

Weather
The average temperature in Negombo fluctuates from 28 degrees celsius to 30 celsius.

Jetwing Blue Negombo

Jetwing Blue
Ethukale, Negombo, Sri Lanka
Reservations +94 11 4709400
Hotel +94 31 22 79000-3
Fax +94 11 2345729
General Manager Hyacinth Gunawardena
Email resv.blue@jetwinghotels.com
Website www.jetwinghotels.com

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS AT THE WESTIN ST. FRANCIS

Featuring Two Magnificent Castles, The Sweet Boutique, Holiday Hideaway, and So Much More Sure To Inspire the Spirit of the Season!

Guests and visitors will delight in a variety of exciting happenings this holiday season at San Francisco’s legendary Westin St. Francis. This year’s highly anticipated castle display will feature the legendary 12-feet tall Medieval Sugar Castle plus the spectacular St. Francis Enchanted Castle. New this year is Holiday Hideaway, a festive holiday floor just for families. The popular Sweet Boutique will be filled with tasty treats, and gorgeous holiday décor will adorn both lobbies. All of this, combined with traditional holiday tea service, delicious meals, and fun hotel packages create the perfect seasonal getaway to San Francisco. Located in the heart of San Francisco’s Union Square, spectacular holiday shopping, a ride on a historic cable car, and the Safeway Holiday Ice Rink are just steps away.

Guests and visitors will have the opportunity to spread some holiday cheer by donating to Guide Dogs for the Blind, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, De Marillac Academy, and Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame. Bright red donation boxes located around the Medieval Sugar Castle in the Landmark Lobby will be on display from November 27 - January 2.

Below is the large array of festivities to enjoy at The Westin St. Francis this holiday season.

- TWO SPECTACULAR CASTLES -
On Wednesday, November 27 at 11 a.m., Executive Pastry Chef Jean-Francois Houdré and his team will unveil two one-of-a-kind handcrafted sugar castles in the Landmark Lobby. In celebration of a hotel tradition that began in 2005, is the stunning 12-ft. Medieval Sugar Castle. Resembling a French Chateau inspired by Chef Houdre’s travels, this life-like magical castle features grand circular towers, individual rooms, and colorful illuminated windows. New this year is the addition of a second train circling an expanded village with a snowy ski resort, a pond, snowcapped trees, and a souvenir shop.

Adding a touch of modernity, the St. Francis Enchanted Castle showcases a winter wonderland of elaborate gift boxes, gingerbread trees, and brilliantly colored candies, all intricately handmade with sugar and pastry. Elves can be spotted climbing all the way up to a towering sugar castle.

The unveiling of the Sugar Castles is open to the public and will feature complimentary hot chocolate and tray-passed cookies. The Westlake School for the Performing Arts choir will perform at 11:30 a.m. Both castles will be on display through January 2.

- SWEET BOUTIQUE -
Visions of sugarplums will come to life when The Westin St. Francis opens its uber-popular Sweet Boutique for the holiday season. Located in the Landmark Lobby, Executive Pastry Chef Jean-Francois Houdré and his team will satisfy sweet tooths with a selection of freshly baked decorative cookies, orange-scented shortbread, gingerbread men, holiday Parisian macarons, and other items. For those who want to take home some extra goodies, boxes of Chef Houdre’s famous macarons and assorted holiday cookies plus a surprise “special of the day” are also available for purchase. Open Saturdays and Sundays from November 30 - December 22; 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

– HOLIDAY HIDEAWAY –
The holidays are the perfect opportunity to enjoy a family vacation and with the brand new “Holiday Hideaway” kids and their parents can enjoy a festive hotel floor and fun surprises designed just for them. At check-in, kids will be welcomed with candy canes, holiday coloring books and crayons, plus a golden ticket redeemable for in-room delivery of sweet and savory goodies and a “Letter to Santa Kit.” Upon entering the Holiday Hideaway floor in the historic Landmark Building, families will be greeted by two life-size toy soldiers and festive décor, along with their very own in-room miniature Christmas tree. Later that evening, magical elves will secretly bring special surprise treats for everyone. Children will awaken the next morning to a delivery from the North Pole of San Francisco-inspired gifts. Rates start at $319 per night, excluding tax. Must cancel up to seven days prior to date of reservation. Cannot be combined with any other offers and not applicable to groups. Available December 19, 2019 – January 4, 2020. For reservations, call (866) 716-8108 or click here.

– DAZZLING DECOR –
On November 27, The Westin St. Francis will be transformed into a joyful oasis, embellished with spectacular holiday decorations. The historic Landmark Lobby will be adorned with a large illuminated tree and two incredible sugar castles. The Tower Lobby will have a soaring 18-feet tall evergreen tree decorated with LED lights, toy soldiers, drum and trumpet ornaments, and colorful balls. Santa’s sleigh, filled with an assortment of decorative gift boxes, and glistening holiday décor will garnish the front desk area. Large wreaths embellished with lights and ornaments will be displayed throughout the hotel. Exhibited through January 2.

- HOLIDAY PACKAGES -
Make it a holiday tradition to enjoy a luxurious overnight stay at The Westin St. Francis. Choose from a selection of festive packages or enjoy an exclusive holiday rate starting at just $199 per night.

Magical Cable Car Package
Experience the sights and sounds of San Francisco’s holiday festivities aboard a famous cable car! Enjoy a one-night stay, two San Francisco cable car passes, and complimentary Wi-Fi access. Rates start at $224 per night. Two cable car passes per room, per stay. No expiration date. For reservations, call (866) 716-8108 or click here.

Macy’s Holiday Shopping Package

What’s better than a fun day of holiday shopping followed by a comfortable overnight stay in the heart of SF? The “Holiday Shopping Package” includes a $100 gift certificate to the west coast’s largest Macy’s, located just steps from the hotel, plus a keepsake Ghirardelli cable car ornament. Rates start at $294 per night. Includes one $100 Macy’s gift card per night (issued upon check-in). For reservations, call (866) 716-8108 or click here.

What to See and Do in Negombo, Sri Lanka.

St Mary's Church Negombo

Negombo has been influenced greatly by the Christian faith from the time it was occupied by the Portuguese. Negombo has been given the name Little Rome due to its large number of highly ornate Portuguese-era Roman Catholic churches.

St Mary's Church
The beautiful St Mary's Church is located in the Town Centre of Negombo.

St Mary's Church Negombo

Construction of the Church was started in 1874 and completed in 1922. The art and architecture of this church show the cultural amalgamation of the European practice with Sri Lankan art and architecture during the early years of the 20th century. The Church has columns and plain walls.

The Church ceilings showcase the artwork on the ceilings by a famous local artist – N.S. Godamanne, a local Buddhist painter.  I even spotted a kangaroo painted on one of the ceiling murals. The walls at the upper level are fixed with sculptures of religious saints. The altar was imported from Europe.
https://www.facebook.com/StMarysChurchNegombo/

Negombo Beach.
Photo Credit Luca Gorlero

Negombo Beach

Negombo's beach stretches north from the town right along the hotel strip before fading into a palm-tree distance. It is ok to swim in or pleasant to walk along the sands and palm trees on the beach. Many hotels and resorts have direct access to the beach. 

Drying Fish on Negombo Beach

Fish Markets
If you have time, an early morning visit to one of Negombo's Fish Markets is worthwhile. Each day fishermen take their oruvas (outrigger canoes) and go out to the open sea in search for fish. They are good to see as they come into the lagoon after a fishing trip. It is worthwhile staying on to see the fish auctions on the beach and sales at the fish market near the fort.

Negombo is at the northern end of a lagoon that is renowned for its lobsters, crabs and prawns. Across the lagoon bridge is Negombo's second fish market. If you are up early at 6am it is a good place to watch big fishing boats return.

Dutch Clock Tower. Credit: Z thomas

Dutch Fort
The ruins of the old Dutch fort are near the seafront near the lagoon mouth. The Dutch rebuilt the original  Portuguese Fort in 1672. In the late 1800s the British authorities decided to demolish the fort and build a prison in its place, constructed from the stones of the fort.

Today all that remains is a section of the eastern rampart with mounds at its northern and Southern ends, where the previous bastions existed, the Dutch Clock Tower, and a recessed arched gateway inscribed with the date 1678. 

Also here is a green, called the Esplanade, where cricket matches are a big attraction. The fort grounds are now occupied by the town’s prison.

Hamilton Canal. Photo Credit: Tbachner

Hamilton Canal

The early Dutch settlers showed their love of canals in Sri Lanka. Canals can be seen extending from Negombo all the way south to Colombo and north to Puttalam, a total distance of over 120km. You can hire a bicycle in Negombo from various hotels and ride the canal-side paths of the Hamilton Canal, also known as the Dutch Canal, enjoying picturesque views and small villages along the way. The Hamilton Canal was constructed by the British in 1802 and completed in 1804 and was named after Gavin Hamilton, the Government Agent of Revenue and Commerce.

Guruge Nature Park

Guruge Park

Guruge Park is the first theme park in the country that not only has fun and exciting rides but also depicts the rich history of the country that dates back to 547 B.C. This park also has unlimited amusement rides, indoor games and a big water park.   

Guruge Park

The Guruge Park has a Jurassic Park section where one can go on an epic adventure and step right into the lost world of the dinosaurs. There are exact replicas of Velociraptors, Tyrannosaurus, Alamosaurus and much more with realistic light and sound effects making the dinosaurs come to life.

Guruge Park

Mayan Water Park has gorgeous light shows where guests can enjoy several water activities with colourful lights, beautiful flora and playful fountains.

The park even has a reconstruction of an ancient Sri Lankan village that houses several antique hunting tools. It has a Gem Museum, a replica of Adam’s Peak and a themed train ride too.  https://gurugepark.com/index.php

Tours

There are many day and half-day tours you can do in Negombo. There are various sorts of tours, such as City Tours, Fishing Tours and History Tours. I spotted a 2-hour Lagoon Boat Tour which includes transfers from your hotel to the Lagoon and back for $12.

Heritance Negombo - the Luxury Hotel on the Beach In Negombo, Sri Lanka

Heritance Negombo Lobby

On my recent visit to Sri Lanka, I was privileged to stay my first night at the elegant 5-star Heritance Negombo hotel. It was just a short drive from the Bandaranaike International Airport.

It was nice to arrive in the late evening to a beachside resort with the wonderful ambience that the Heritance Negombo provided. The bold colours of the decor were cheerful in the vibrant tropical surrounds.

Late Night Supper

The fragrance of fresh flowers filled the lobby as I entered. The reception staff were welcoming, pleasant, helpful and efficient with checking in. We were offered a welcome drink and for a late supper a delicious burger, fries and salad.

ROOMS

My room merged style with space and was beautifully presented and very clean. It provided all the amenities and comforts I needed, including a 42" flat screen TV, fan, air conditioning, IPod docking station, in-room safe, and free wifi. 

Heritance Negombo Bathroom

Refreshments in the room were possible with a tea and coffee maker, and a minibar provided complimentary beverages. My balcony was ideal for watching the waves by moonlight and breathing in the fresh sea breeze. The décor of the room complimented the hues of a tropical dawn. The electric blues set off vibrant champagne gold colour scheme.

The ensuite had a large rain-shower with plenty of hot and cold water, good toiletries, hairdryer, magnifying mirror, fluffy towels, bathrobes and beach slippers.

Heritance Negombo Bedroom

I had a restful nights sleep on the large single bed. The mattress was just the right amount of firmness for me, and I had a choice of pillows to choose from. I noted that hypoallergenic pillows were also available on request.

Heritance Negombo guest rooms face the ocean with spacious balconies, or rooms come with a private lanai. A choice of 5 room styles is available at the Heritance Negombo.

These include:

View from my Balcony

• DELUXE - 64 rooms, 430 SQ.FT. OF AREA
• SUPERIOR DELUXE, 49 rooms | 430 SQ.FT. OF AREA
• PREMIUM - 21 rooms, 430 SQ.FT. OF AREA
• JUNIOR SUITES- 4 rooms, 860 SQ.FT. OF AREA These comprising a master bedroom, a second parlour room, your own living/dining room and a vast, private balcony.
• PRESIDENTIAL SUITE - 1 room | 2152 SQ.FT. OF AREA This provides a luxurious bedroom, lounge and dining room for 8, complete with the finest fittings and features

Heritance Negombo Pool

LEISURE FACILITIES
Unfortunately, my limited overnight stay meant I did not have time to enjoy the Heritance Negombo leisure facilities to unwind. The lagoon-style swimming pool with sunbeds and a swim-up bar is amazing. The greenery and the cleanliness of the surrounding area are well maintained. For fitness-minded guests, the fully-equipped gym features cardiovascular and weight-training equipment. Board games of Scrabble and Monopoly are available to use, and Beach Volleyball can be played on the beach.

BLISS SPA
The Heritance Negombo rooftop BLISS SPA offers wellness treatments and services that can be enjoyed in six tranquil treatment rooms. Here the modern art of wellness meets centuries of wisdom and healing craft designed to help you become you again. Aromatherapy suites and hot tubs peer out into the horizon and are open 10am to 8pm. Treatments at the BLISS SPA include Ceylonese Foot Rituals; Head, Neck and Shoulder Rituals; Ceylonese Purifying Rituals; Ceylonese Body Rituals and Add-On Treatments.

DINING
There are several dining options available onsite at the Heritance Negombo and over the road at the Banyan Tree.

BLUETAN

BLUETAN Restaurant

BLUETAN is the wonderfully spacious restaurant situated on the ground floor that offers buffets in the style of feasts. I enjoyed my free breakfast there. I filled several plates to the brim with healthy local and international delights. The BLUETAN Restaurant seats 160 people and also includes alfresco dining for 50 people. Breakfast is served from 7 to 10.30am They also serve lunch from 12.30 to 3pm and dinner from 7 to 10.30pm.

SEE LOUNGE
The SEA LOUNGE is a bar lounge perched right on the top floor with wonderful ocean views. It is open each evening so that guests can enjoy a drink of champagne, malt, wine, beer, juice or cocktails while watching the sunset.

B-BUMS
B-BUMS offers a chance to unwind with delicious treats or your favourite cocktail.

Sculpture at Banyan Tree

Over the road near the large BANYAN TREE are several more dining and drinking venues. The SWISS BAKERY & CAFE offers french style confectionery and sweet treats and is open from 7am to 7pm. MAD DOGS offers fusion tapas and wine and is open from 11am to 11pm. The ROUGE BAR & SNACKS offers bar drinks and snacks and is open from 4pm to midnight.

EVENTS
The convenience of location combined with the ambience of a beach resort makes Heritance Negombo the perfect place to host your corporate, business, social and intimate events. They can host board meetings, lavish annual conventions, exhibitions, galas and celebrations.

Heritance Negombo IVI Ballroom

Heritance Negombo is able to accommodate a variety of functions from formal to interactive conferences. They offer a space to suit every occasion, including a Banquet Garden with an ocean view for private functions, the state-of-the-art IVI Ballroom for a gala dinner, and THE BLUE BRASS, SEA BRASS, THIRD PLACE break-out meeting rooms with natural light for conferences.

Dedicated professionals, world-class technology and thoughtful design offer the advantage of private access to event spaces and seamless, efficient and imaginative event services.

WEDDINGS
The Heritance Negombo is the ideal luxury venue for a wedding, a special anniversary or the renewal of vows, whether it is a small, intimate gathering, or a lavish gala in a grand scale. It will be a day that will certainly be unforgettable. For couples visiting Sri Lanka on a honeymoon, the Heritance Negombo is a haven of private luxury for those celebrating love and life.

LOCATION
The Heritance Negombo Sri Lanka is a destination which draws upon the best of its location. The Heritance Negombo is only 13 Km or 20 minutes from the Bandaranaike International Airport and 32km or 40 minutes from the capital of Colombo. For guests with a vehicle, free parking is available.

View to Ocean

The Heritance Negombo is the ideal base for visiting old churches, coconut plantations, small lanes, tropical alleyways, Dutch-built canals, cultural curiosities, and artwork. Beach sports such as catamaran racing and power kiting are available.

SPECIAL OFFERS AT HERITANCE NEGOMBO

Make sure you take advantage of the special offers on the Heritance Negombo website https://www.heritancehotels.com/negombo/ . Currently available are the OCTOBER SPECIAL, with up to 45% off from the total room rate + other value additions, the SRI LANKAN RESIDENT RATE and the BOOK EARLY, SAVE BIG OFFER with 15% extra off for private offer sign-ups.

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Negombo, look no further than Heritance Negombo.

Heritance Negombo

Heritance Negombo
175 Lewis Place, Negombo, Sri Lanka.
Tel: +94 317 431 431
Fax: +94 112 433 755
Email: hn.ebiz.lk@aitkenspence.lk
Website: https://www.heritancehotels.com/negombo/