Colombo, Colombo & the West Coast, Sri Lanka

Despite being just a 15-minute taxi ride from Sri Lanka’s main international airport, the Wallawwa is anything but a traditional airport hotel. Set in five acres of 200-year-old tropical gardens, it occupies a handsomely renovated colonial manor house holding 18 beautifully furnished rooms and suites, a Indian-tiled swimming pool, library, decadent spa, and top-rate restaurant. Staffing is first class and teams of butlers tend to guests in the traditional way, whisking lemon sorbets to guests around the pool or serving up exquisite pan-Asian and international meals.  Although the Wallawwa is ideal for anyone looking to recuperate before or after their flight, this chic hotel’s magical setting and tranquility merit a longer stay.