Friday, February 17, 2012

Ranveli Beach Resort-Mount Lavinia, Colombo-Sri Lanka

If you are wondering where did i put up during my stay in Colombo, it was in this small and cosy, bed and breakfast style resort, Ranveli Beach Resort, situated at Mount Lavinia beach. Take note that Mount Lavinia is an outskirt area off Colombo, but can be said "still within reach" from the city centre.

Though this property may not provide you all the lavishness and amenities of 5 stars accommodation, however it still gives you the sense of privacy as rooms are located in segregated areas and the reception and the dining area is the only open area in the property whereby you may see people hanging around and be seen in return.

In addition to the wonderful rate that we got, we booked ourselves in the biggest family room, for the rate of around RM 150 only per night, this hotel is located just a train track away from the scenic Mount Lavinia beach. Did i say a "train track away"? Yes i did and indeed there's a rail line next to the vicinity of this hotel but dont bother as the trains would passed by so rapidly that it wont cause you unnecessary disturbances or sleepless nights.

The owner of this hotel frequently greeted the hotel guests, asking how are they doing, whether the guests need any assistance, especially on travel tips in and around Colombo. You may also consult the staffs for any tour guides/driver which may take you for day tours around Colombo or to other places such as Kandy or Galle.The staffs are also the friendliest lot that you may find, making your stay here an uneventful one.

As this is a no-frill accommodation, the breakfast offerings were simple of toasts, coffee, teas and eggs which will be prepared at your desire, whether you want it scrambled, half-boiled or omelete. I do notice that Sri Lankan people consume little amount of meat from my observation of the dishes served here.

If you are looking for an affordable, comfortable stay in Colombo, Sri Lanka, which offers you wonderful sea view, do have Ranveli Beach Resort as one of your option. Cheers-Kay 2012


reviews on Ranveli Beach in Trip Advisor












Sunday, February 12, 2012

Halal Foods in Colombo-Sri Lanka

I had just returned from a short holiday in the wonderful island of Sri Lanka last week. It was a truly beautiful country, similar weather with Malaysia and has lots to offer to tourist around the world though it has just recovered from the long prevalent civil war which marred its reputation as a safe place to be visited. Most importantly the people of Sri Lanka are friendly and the country itself, though still not fully developed, is clean.

Before detailing on my sight seeing of Sri Lanka, i will write first about its foods, and its halal foods in particular that ive chanced to taste during my stay there. May this be an insightful guide to fellow Muslims who plan to travel to Colombo, Sri Lanka.

1) Elite Indian Restaurant

This restaurant is located around 5 minutes from central Colombo, and from Mount Lavinia, where we stayed, will be 30 minutes.


It serves Indian (as per its name) local and also fusion foods of local, Chinese and Malay dishes.

The restaurant can be located easily by its tall signboard


the external view, its a fully air-conditioned restaurant.


dining area......



the menu......











i ordered the Chicken Bryani......with crispy chicken leg, one hard-boiled egg and eaten with condiments.....delicious...



my friends ordered the Garlic Naan and Chicken Tikka Masala..........the Chicken Tikka was quite salty....



2) Loon Tao Chinese Seafood Restaurant


This restaurant is located at Mount Lavinia beach, around 12 km from central Colombo. This restaurant has nicely set up dining areas where all diners may get the view of the beautiful beach. The setting is also romantic for couples.


the menu..........




i ordered Ginger Beer, they serve large bottle here..very nice...


We ordered Seafood Fried Rice....the portion is big here so best to be shared......



 Crispy Noodle with Seafood...


and Sizzling Fish Fillet......



From my observation it's not hard to find halal eateries around Colombo as there are significant Muslims communities here. For fast food lovers, even KFC here is certified as Halal...as displayed on its door below...



So if you are in Colombo do visit all the eateries above without hesitation.Cheers-Kay2012