Colombo, Sri Lanka
‘The oldest hotel east of Suez’ has for over a century been the proud boast of the Galle Face, grande dame of Colombo’s colonial-era properties. Dating from 1864, it occupies a prime patch of real estate at the end of the promenade facing the Indian Ocean.
From the moment its white-gloved doormen usher you inside the lobby, you’re transported back to a more gentile era, when Sri Lanka was plain ‘Ceylon’ and royalty, movie stars and millionaires trod the creaking teak corridors of this venerable old building. A recent refurbishment has restored the hotel’s lustrous sheen and the rooms are today handsomely furnished (if a little chintzy by European standards). If you feel like pushing the boat out, book one of the grand ‘Ocean Balcony’ suites, which have the best views.
