The Palms

Unfortunately underwhelming... We booked a room with 2 double beds (alternatively 2 single bed) for a higher price because that's what we wanted - when we checked in, we were given a room with 1 double bed. Unfortunately the bed couldn't be spitted and no other room was available (which we highly doubted, as we were one of the early one's checking in that day). We received a very soft co-sleeper bed... The first night, we went to bed quite early as we were exhausted from the day. Suddenly, there was banging on the door - up to 10 times - before I was awake enough to open the door to 2 service guys from the hotel, giving me some cut fruits and 4 pralines - at 10:30pm!? I was totally confused by the time and behaviour... Also the personnel wasn't of great help when asked regarding directions, post office, or else... We just didn't like the experience we had in this hotel.

My grandma has already visited Sri Lanka around 27 times, trying a lot of different hotels. Since she visited this hotel for the first time, she has never wanted to go to another hotel. Like that, this stay was her seventh at "the palms". This trip was my second ever to Sri Lanka and my first at this hotel. We were all-inclusive for 15 days and to already let you know- it was not our last time! First of all, we were greeted friendly by the receptionist. A few minutes later we were spoiled with a delicious mango juice and another few minutes later, we got to see our room. All our baggage was carried to our room and arrived a few seconds after we got to see our room. We had an amazing view of the beach and pool area (attached picture). The room itself was clean and decorated with beautiful flowers on the bed. We also enjoyed sleeping in this bed, although we usually prefer sleeping at home. Our room was cleaned every day by very kind housekeepers. Especially Ruwan and Vimukthi did a great job and we were happy about their service. We also enjoyed the creative „towel-animals“ (attached picture) they made for us. We got excited to see our room after breakfast every day (I never thought I'd be saying that)! We also liked the elevator, although it closes a bit too fast, you should take care while getting in. Some people who made this stay so enjoyable were the receptionists and their great service. We had a few minor problems with our airline and one of us suddenly caught a cold. The receptionists were very supportive and helped us through any possible issues. They did care about our well-being and asked multiple times if we needed anything to make our stay more pleasant. Once again, thank you! The food was delicious and as a vegetarian, I found a lot of options at the buffet. I recommend trying out the Dhal curry because I ate it almost daily with rice and naan bread. You should also try their „devil cakes“, they taste amazing. I personally also appreciated that the signs on food containers showed, whether or not something was vegetarian. Like that I always had a lot of options! The restaurant manager Dinesh also ensured, that no culinary (extra-) wishes were unfulfilled and even offered us an exclusive dinner at the beach. Thanks for this amazing service! The staff in general, waitresses, and barkeepers turned this vacation into something special. They were always smiling and made great drinks - with and without alcohol. A special thanks go to Chamama, Udara, Ruwan, Nimantha, Kanishka, Adeesha, Hansani, and last but not least Chanula. You made it a memorable time and we enjoyed every single day we spent at this place. In case you are still unsure, whether or not you should save your stay at this hotel - let me tell you to just do it. Money comes back, but memories don't. It is a beautiful country, the hotel and staff are amazing and we honestly enjoyed every day.. We can only recommend this hotel and since we got home, we have already star

Was really nice to play volleyball with Hiresh and locals, they are very friendly) the beach and surfing school near hotel are also cool) some food here is spicy, so you had better to be accurate when you choose the dish so read the cards. Rooms are simple but nice 👍