The sandy beaches of Sri Lanka have always drawn the traveller, and now there is a retreat that combines a unique experience with the warm hospitality of the Sri Lankans.

Sindbad Hotel managed by Serendib Leisure, is situated at Kalutara between the lagoon and the sea in a picturesque setting.

This 250 roomed hotel which has just recently been refurbished to create a totally a new look with over Rs. 90 million spent on refurbishing programme sprawls over a large extent of land.

Once inside, the design of Sindbad embraces and celebrates its spectacular environment. The spacious lobby is supported by 10001 lights depicting the legend of Sindbad the sailor who is associated with 10001 lamps.As you enter you are surrounded by the sea and the ambience is soothing and tranquil, peaceful and refreshing.

According to General Manager Chris de Saram this property was opened in 1974 as Hotel Mereve. It was opened again in 1988 as Hotel Sindbad.

Hotel Sindbad has been marketed in all European destinations expecially Germany. ‘The bulk of our tourists come from Germany,’ said the general manager. Upgraded into 3-star property the newly refurbished hotel serves a combination of eastern and western cuisine at all meals and guests can sample some of Sri Lanka’s first delicacies at this hotel.

The hotel also boasts all the modern recreational facilities such as a large outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, chess etc.

The ambience, with greenery around pleases the eye of the wary visitor. The lobby and the reception area sets the tone for the rest of the hotel, everything is open and this seems to capture the currents, and a cool breeze can be felt at any time of the day.

The day of our visit to the hotel coincided with many Sri Lankans, and foreign tourists. One of the tourists quipped "It is our first visit here but we love the place, it is relaxing and it is like our home away from home". That was the first of many such comments we heard from guests who had become enthralled with the hospitality and the beautiful location of the hotel.The hotel is also popular with many Sri Lankans, ideal location for meetings, seminars and for company outings. Their conference room with a large seating capacity caters to convention, conferences and banquets.

Their most unique attraction is the floating restaurant. You can dine wine and have your birthday bash while you cruise along.

There is plenty of sun, sea and sand which makes Hotel Sindbad the ideal resort for water sports and for those who love getting wet. A banana boat ride, a tube racey jet skin for these who prefer a little more speed and excitement, wind surfing, water scooter paddleboats, sailing boats. You name it there it is everything for the outdoor traveller.

Judging from the careful attention to every detail, the priority given to the guests and the response of the numerous guests who keep flocking to this remarkable hotel. Hotel Sindbad has reached its objectives and more. It is a joint venture with Serendib leisure and the first Maldivian resorts in Sri Lanka Cyprea.