Centara Ceysands ★★★★

When holidaymakers think of southern Asia, their minds often jump immediately to the picture-perfect beaches and landscapes of Thailand or Bali…but beautiful Sri Lanka has something they don’t – a relatively undiscovered status! So, this year, we packed our bags and flew away to the Centara Ceysands****, which was ready and waiting for us to start our holiday of a lifetime.

Tucked away between the Bentota River and the Indian Ocean, guests are surrounded by such outstanding nature that the location gives many of the most beautiful spots in the world a run for their money. What’s more, its only takes a short boat journey to reach the peninsula and make ourselves at home… there’s nothing like a trip across the waves, wind in your hair, to start off your break with a bang!

Each luxurious day started off as such; waking up in the comfort of our Superior Ocean View Room, before gently opening the blinds to the sight of the infinite blue of the Indian Ocean. As we pulled on our swimming costumes, we know that the smiling hotel team is already preparing our delicious breakfast…if this isn’t happiness, I don’t know what is.

We spent many an afternoon in the infinity pool which faces the sparkling ocean, and whether you’re lounging in the bubbling hot tub or going for a morning jog on the beach, you’re never more than a short stroll away from paradisiacal activities. And the cherry on top is that kids are taken care of too; we left them to make friends at the Kid’s Clubs, while we retreated to the hotel spa, a temple of well-being where Ayurvedic treatments and Thai massages ensure totally relaxation.

However, just because the hotel is not wanting in anything, doesn’t mean you can’t venture out! Towns submerged in jungle, Buddhist temples and turtle nesting sites; it’s amazing to see the sheer amount of treasures that Mother Nature and man have created in Sri Lanka. After a day of venturing or relaxing, all there’s left to do is to choose where to eat: poolside or on our very own balcony, Sri Lankan specialities or international favourites…it’s a hard job, but someone has to do it. Thanks to the Centara Ceysands**** for a tropical getaway we’ll never forget!