Hilton COLOMBO

Introduction to Hilton Colombo

If you're a New Zealander looking to explore the vibrant culture and rich history of Sri Lanka, you'll likely find yourself in the bustling city of Colombo. As the country's largest city, Colombo offers a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions, from ancient temples to modern shopping centres. When it comes to accommodation, one of the most renowned hotels in the city is the Hilton Colombo. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Hilton Colombo, exploring its facilities, services, and what makes it an ideal choice for travellers from New Zealand.

Located in the heart of Colombo, the Hilton Colombo is a 5-star hotel that boasts stunning views of the Indian Ocean and the city skyline. With its convenient location, you'll be within walking distance to many of the city's main attractions, including the Colombo Harbour and the Gangarama Temple. Whether you're in Sri Lanka for business or leisure, the Hilton Colombo is an excellent choice, offering a range of amenities and services to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

As a New Zealander, you'll appreciate the hotel's commitment to providing a warm and welcoming environment, complete with modern facilities and exceptional service. From the moment you arrive, you'll be treated to a unique blend of Sri Lankan hospitality and international standards, making you feel right at home. In the following sections, we'll explore the various aspects of the Hilton Colombo, including its accommodation options, dining facilities, and leisure activities.

Accommodation Options

The Hilton Colombo offers a range of accommodation options to suit different needs and budgets. From luxurious suites to comfortable guest rooms, you'll find the perfect place to rest and relax after a long day of exploring the city. Some of the key features of the hotel's accommodation options include:

• Spacious rooms: Each room is designed to provide ample space and comfort, complete with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and high-speed internet access.
• Luxurious suites: If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, the hotel's suites offer separate living areas, kitchenettes, and stunning views of the city or ocean.
• Accessible rooms: The hotel also offers accessible rooms, designed to cater to the needs of guests with disabilities.

When choosing your accommodation, consider the following tips:

• Book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Request a room with a view of the ocean or city skyline for a unique and memorable experience.
• Take advantage of the hotel's loyalty programme to earn rewards and enjoy exclusive benefits.

Dining and Entertainment

The Hilton Colombo is renowned for its exceptional dining options, offering a range of international and local cuisine to suit different tastes and preferences. Some of the hotel's notable dining options include:

• Graze Kitchen: This all-day dining restaurant serves a variety of international dishes, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Il Ponte: For a taste of Italy, head to Il Ponte, which offers an extensive range of Italian cuisine, including pasta, pizza, and seafood.
• Stella Karaoke Bar: If you're looking for a fun and entertaining evening, the Stella Karaoke Bar is the perfect spot to sing your favourite tunes and enjoy a range of cocktails and snacks.

When dining at the Hilton Colombo, be sure to:

• Try the hotel's signature dishes, which often feature local ingredients and flavours.
• Take advantage of the hotel's themed dinner nights, which offer a unique and immersive dining experience.
• Don't forget to try some of the local Sri Lankan cuisine, which is known for its rich flavours and spices.

Leisure and Wellness

The Hilton Colombo offers a range of leisure and wellness facilities, designed to help you relax and rejuvenate during your stay. Some of the hotel's notable facilities include:

• Fitness centre: The hotel's fitness centre is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, including treadmills, free weights, and strength-training machines.
• Swimming pool: The outdoor swimming pool is the perfect spot to cool off and enjoy the sun, with stunning views of the city skyline.
• Spa: The hotel's spa offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps, designed to promote relaxation and wellness.

When using the hotel's leisure and wellness facilities, be sure to:

• Book your spa treatments in advance to ensure availability.
• Take advantage of the hotel's fitness classes, which include yoga, Pilates, and aerobics.
• Don't forget to try some of the local wellness treatments, which often feature traditional Sri Lankan techniques and ingredients.

Exploring Colombo

As a guest of the Hilton Colombo, you'll be perfectly positioned to explore the city and its many attractions. Some of the top things to do and see in Colombo include:

• Visiting the National Museum: This museum is home to a vast collection of Sri Lankan artifacts and exhibits, offering a unique insight into the country's history and culture.
• Exploring the Pettah Market: This bustling market is a great place to find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food.
• Taking a stroll along the Galle Face Green: This scenic promenade offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean and the city skyline, making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

When exploring Colombo, be sure to:

• Hire a local guide or join a guided tour to get a deeper understanding of the city's history and culture.
• Try some of the local street food, which often features traditional Sri Lankan dishes and flavours.
• Don't forget to bargain when shopping at local markets, as this is a common practice in Sri Lanka.

Tips and Insights

As a New Zealander travelling to Sri Lanka, it's essential to be aware of the local customs and traditions. Here are some tips and insights to help you make the most of your stay:

• Respect local customs: Sri Lanka is a conservative country, so be sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes when visiting temples or other sacred sites.
• Learn some basic Sinhala phrases: While many Sri Lankans speak English, learning a few basic phrases such as "hello" (ayubowan) and "thank you" (kohomada) can go a long way in showing respect and appreciation for the local culture.
• Stay safe: As with any foreign travel, be sure to take necessary precautions to stay safe, including avoiding travelling alone at night and keeping valuables secure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Hilton Colombo is an excellent choice for New Zealanders travelling to Sri Lanka. With its luxurious accommodation options, exceptional dining facilities, and range of leisure and wellness activities, you'll find everything you need to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. By following the tips and insights outlined in this article, you'll be well on your way to making the most of your time in Colombo and experiencing all that this vibrant city has to offer. So why not start planning your trip to Sri Lanka today and discover the warm hospitality and rich culture of this incredible country?