Utterly outstanding

We are soon to leave after a wonderful week at Cocobay. We are used to the opulence and high servicing levels in the Emirates and were prepared to accept a step down to be out of the desert over the Christmas period. The reality, however, is that Cocobay would hold its own confidently if it were on The Palm Dubai or the Grand Canal sands of Abu Dhabi. From the moment you pass its threshold you enter a world of personal care and utmost attention to detail that will make your holiday memorable.
Aesthetically, the hotel has the hallmark of creativity and simplicity, sitting in a stunning bay with vistas over the historic landmarks of Galle. Its design gives a sense of openness and its small guest capacity results in one never feeling overwhelmed with people in the restaurant nor on the private beach.
Our room was a hugely spacious family room on the first floor with a large bathroom equipped with a generously proportioned jacuzzi bath. The bed was a comfortable large King and all manner of pillows were provided. The view from our double balcony will never be forgotten as the Indian Ocean lapped the shoreline barely 30 metres away and the Sri Lankan sun would set so majestically over the water.
The food was a six course affair that set our palate alight with arguably the best curry sampled in my 45 years on this earth. Starters were supremely crafted and presented and mains offered a mixture of quality meats and fish. The chef prides himself on his fayre and gave me very little opportunity to criticise anything put before me. He will even leave his station to enquire as to whether you are enjoying your meal and will tailor foods to your specifications. Dinner can be enjoyed in the restaurant or al fresco literally on the beach.
Staff knew our names and our children’s names in minutes and could not do enough to help. One could see that high-end training had been undertaken as their behaviours and language constantly showed that my family’s holiday was important to them. They all take pride in their work from restaurant staff to the pool and beach personnel. Our butler would adorn our beds with flowers daily and such a massive effort was appreciated on my birthday. The Manager is a hugely knowledgable and personable man for whom nothing is too much of a problem. The owners are often onsite and are keen to see how their vision is perceived by guests. We thank every member of the Cocobay team for their labour of love and their unstinting engagement with our young children.
Galle is a beautiful spot and Sri Lankan people are gracious, polite, respectful and welcoming. Unawatuna has the look of a mini- Goa with a real bohemian feel to it.
We will be returning to the Emirates tomorrow and will be recommending Cocobay to our expat social circle. Cocobay is a jewel in the treasure that is Sri Lanka. See it for yourself!

jaytour | United Kingdom