Words by Veidehi Gite
Sri Lanka unveiled its splendour as I embarked on a journey from the airport, traversing through the bustling city, until I reached the palm-fringed harbour of Galle Sea Face, which not only serves as the heart of Sri Lanka’s commercial business centre but also exudes an irresistible natural allure that is bound to leave one spellbound.
While this area is dotted with numerous luxurious establishments, Taj Colombo surpasses them all. Billowing high in the sky, flags flutter against the backdrop of a bustling road, instantly setting apart this colossal hotel. A true relic of the late 1970s, this property spans across 11 landscaped acres, paying homage to the colonial era while infusing elements of South Asian culture. Here, the essence of Tajness truly comes alive, presenting you with unparalleled vistas of the majestic Indian Ocean. It’s an experience that transcends mere luxury.
Hotel
Nestled amidst verdant landscapes, Taj Samudra stands as a testament to timeless elegance, beckoning discerning travellers to its embrace. Its strategic location in the prestigious Colpetty business sector, adjacent to the bustling Galle Face Center Road, makes it the best option for those traversing the realms of commerce. Once a beacon of luxury in Colombo, the Taj Samudra now stands reborn, its allure heightened by the passage of time.
In a grand resurgence, Taj Samudra Colombo emerged from its cocoon in 2018, having undergone a remarkable $20 million transformation. The hotel now boasts 300 resplendent rooms, where 71 rooms and 15 suites have been meticulously renovated to unrivalled magnificence. A new domain of indulgence awaits, with the introduction of the Taj Club rooms and Tata presidential suite, and conference spaces and offices hum with the energy of productivity, creating an atmosphere of success.
The foyer is an absolute spectacle, with soaring ceilings, exquisite marble flooring, and columns. The English colonial-style seating areas, in captivating olive and celery, set the tone for a luxurious vacation and the chandeliers cast a mesmerising glow, while the grand stone vases and elephant tusk door knobs add an air of regality. The very essence of the Taj brand permeates the atmosphere, exuding dramatic allure that captivates all who enter. Lush potted palms, and intricate latticework arches grace every corner. The ambience is nothing short of extraordinary, and it is not uncommon to spot Sri Lanka’s socialites and famous personalities wandering the hallways.
Room
All of the luxurious Taj Samudra rooms take full advantage of the location, with views of the ocean providing a serene ambience within each room. My 35 sqm luxury ocean view room rather pleasantly surprised me with gentle furnishings in vibrant golden hues. The hardwood floors exude a sense of timeless elegance, while the carpets, designed in abstract patterns, add a touch of artistic flair.
The stylish padded headboard beckoned me to sink into its plush comfort, while the warm wood furniture, including side mirrors and tables, added a touch of sophistication to the room. As I gazed out of the window, the vast expanse of the ocean stretched out before me, its waves crashing against the shore in a symphony of nature’s power. The view was awe-inspiring, a reminder of the immense beauty that surrounded me.
The overall opulence of these rooms is elevated by the presence of resplendent golden pillows, couches in the hue of ivory, state-of-the-art air-conditioning controls, and drapes crafted from iridescent olive-coloured taffeta silk. As the sun gracefully descends beneath the horizon, casting its radiant amber beams into the room, an awe-inspiring ambience is instantly conjured, enveloping you in a comforting sense of belonging.
Venturing into the bathrooms, one will find a tasteful display of tiling, accompanied by grand marble vanities that command attention. Rain showers, devoid of cumbersome bathtubs, offer a refreshing and invigorating experience. Complimentary premium toiletries await, ensuring a pampering escape from the mundane, while essential amenities such as a hairdryer stand ready to cater to your every need.
The luxury ocean view rooms cater to the discerning needs of astute business travellers, boasting ergonomic work chairs at the sleek desk and the convenience of bedside laptop and cell phone charging. A cosy seating area beckoned me to unwind, while a colossal flat-screen TV provided a visual feast for the senses. The room also boasted an electronic safe, ensuring the security of my valuables, and an electric kettle accompanied by a selection of tea and coffee, perfect for a moment of respite.
The hotel graciously offers laundry and dry cleaning services, as well as the convenience of room service, albeit at an additional cost. While complimentary Wi-Fi is provided, it is worth noting that it is limited to a mere two devices and valid for a mere 24 hours. Premium plans are available for those seeking an extended stay, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity throughout their sojourn.
Food and drink
Taj Samudra’s cuisine is a mesmerising symphony of flavours that transcends borders and captivates the senses. Start your day with the Sri Lankan hoppers, a breakfast delight that will transport you to the heart of this enchanting island. As the sun reaches its zenith, indulge in a lavish seafood feast at the renowned Crab Bistro, where the ocean’s treasures are transformed into culinary wonders. And when night falls, surrender to the allure of Yumi, where the art of Japanese cuisine is elevated to new heights with the freshest sashimi and exquisite flavours. From the rich and traditional Indian delicacies to the innovative and modern Japanese creations, every palate is catered to with utmost care and precision.
The crown jewel of this gastronomic paradise is none other than Ports of Call, the Taj Samudra’s leading restaurant. Nestled between the lobby and the swimming pool, it beckons you with its lavish buffet, where local delicacies mingle harmoniously with international favourites. Whether you prefer the freedom of a la carte or the allure of a full bar, lunchtime at Ports of Call is an experience to be savoured. As the evening unfolds, the live cooking stations come alive, casting a spell on all who witness the culinary magic unfold before their eyes. The restaurant itself is a sight to behold, with its elegant wood-panelled walls and beams adorned with mosaic tiles in brass and gold.
The Golden Dragon, a contemporary Chinese a la carte restaurant that opened in 2014, is well-known for its all-you-can-eat dim sum brunch on Sundays. Japanese food is available at YUMI for other Asian alternatives. This modern restaurant offers a good bento box for lunch, a tiny sushi bar, and sleek orange leather chairs and stools. Crab Factory, they say, is Colombo’s most versatile seafood speciality bistro. Other places to have evening bites include the Steak and Grill house, only available for dinner, and the Indian restaurant Navranta, which is open for lunch.
At Pebbles Café, the flavour comes alive with sandwiches, pastries, and cookies. At Lattice, their lobby bar, live piano music serenades your senses, mirrored columns reflect the allure of the room, and luxurious white Victorian-style couches beckon you to sink into their plush embrace, while the palm plants add a touch of tropical paradise. The name Lattice is derived from the exquisite white wood carvings adorning its towering windows, while a striking modern metal sculpture commands attention from behind the counter.
For those seeking a more laid-back experience, the Pool Bar nestled within an unassuming shed, offers a comprehensive drink menu that will leave you spoiled for choice.
Wellness facilities
The state-of-the-art pool beckons you to indulge in pure luxury. Prepare to be captivated by its sleek design, promising an unforgettable aquatic experience. This pool area decked with inviting lounge chairs, stands as a true oasis during the scorching summer months.
Adjacent to this aquatic paradise lies the hotel’s expansive fitness centre, boasting a contemporary gym equipped with cutting-edge lifestyle equipment, exercise balls, and yoga mats. For those seeking a more competitive outlet, the backyard tennis courts provide an opportunity for exhilarating matches. And if you crave the thrill of squash, a state-of-the-art court with stadium seating awaits you underground, promising an electrifying experience like no other.
To do
During your stay at the Taj Samudra in Colombo, be sure to immerse yourself in the cultural wonders this vibrant city has to offer. Across the bustling multilane highway lies an oceanfront park with a stretch of sandy beach. Here, locals and tourists can be seen leisurely lounging throughout the day, basking in the glory of this picturesque paradise. At night, street vendors line up with stalls selling local food.
Just a stone’s throw away lies the prestigious National Museum, revered as the epitome of excellence in Sri Lanka. This cultural gem, a mere five-minute drive from the hotel promises an immersive journey through the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka’s history and its heritage. Not far from there, a historic transformation awaits at the former Dutch Hospital. Once a bastion of healing, it has now been reborn as a vibrant shopping centre and a haven for culinary delights.
Be sure to explore the enchanting Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, where tranquillity and spirituality intertwine in perfect harmony. Indulge your senses in the historical grandeur of Independence Square, where the echoes of the past whisper tales of bravery and resilience, leaving you in awe of the indomitable spirit that shaped this nation.
Venture further into the heart of Colombo and discover the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, a true architectural masterpiece that stands as a testament to the city’s multicultural fabric. As the sun sets and the city comes alive with vibrant energy, experience the thrill of Bally’s Casino, where fortune favours the bold. With each turn of the card, every roll of the dice, the possibility of triumph beckons.
Factbox
Room rates start from $175 onwards
Address: 25 Galle Face Center Rd, Colombo 80000, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 112 446 622
Website: tajhotels.com
Photography courtesy of Taj Hotels.
