Escape to Paradise: Sri Lanka's Blue Moon Hotel Awaits!
Escape to Paradise: Blue Moon Hotel – A Review That's Honestly (and Honestly Messy) Sri Lanka Edition!
Alright, buckle up, because I'm about to spill the tea (or maybe the kottu roti, let's be real) on the Blue Moon Hotel in Sri Lanka. This isn't your sanitized, corporate-speak review. This is the real deal, warts and all, written by someone who’s just come back from a truly unforgettable, and at times, slightly chaotic, adventure.
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Accessibility: The First Hurdle (And How They Climbed Over It!)
Finding truly accessible travel is a nightmare. So, let's tackle this head-on. The Blue Moon Hotel has a section on Facilities for disabled guests, which piqued my interest. Honestly, from what I saw… it was a mixed bag. Wheelchair Accessible is listed – yes, there is an elevator (Hallelujah!), and access to some public areas is decent. My friend uses a cane, and she navigated the lobby and restaurants with relative ease. However, some of the pathways to the Swimming pool [outdoor] were a bit rough, and I didn’t see clear, dedicated ramps everywhere. I'd suggest calling ahead and really grilling them about specific needs. Don’t settle for "we have facilities," get specifics! (For the record: I didn't see a dedicated accessible room, but again, call and ask). My score? Room for improvement, but they're trying, which is a start.
On-site accessible restaurants / lounges - Yes, the main restaurant (which is also where they serve Asian cuisine in restaurant and International cuisine in restaurant) was accessible. Tables were spaced out well, so that's a plus!
Internet: The Lifeline of the Modern Traveler… Sometimes
"Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" They shouted! Well, hallelujah again. And thank goodness it's "Internet access - wireless." I need to Instagram everything. The Internet was… okay. Patchy at times, especially during peak hours when everyone was probably uploading their envy-inducing sunset photos. But hey, at least it was there. Internet [LAN] is also listed, but unless you're bringing your own server, I doubt it's a game changer for you. Internet services should be a bit more robust. But hey, remember, you're on island time. Embrace the digital detox a little!
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Where the Magic Happens (Mostly!)
Okay, THIS is where the Blue Moon really shines. Let's start with the Pool with view. Seriously, the infinity pool overlooking the Sri Lankan coast? Jaw-dropping. You’ll want to spend hours there, and trust me, you won’t be alone. It's perfect for a quick dip, or just lounging in one of the pool-side chairs. The Swimming pool itself is huge, clean, and inviting.
And then there's the Spa. I'm a total spa addict, and this was a highlight. I indulged in a Body scrub (loved it!), a Massage (heavenly!), and even a Foot bath. The therapists are incredibly skilled and the atmosphere is serene. Do yourself a favor and book a treatment! Let me emphasise the Spa/sauna and Steamroom, which offers a complete relaxation! And I never said I was a fitness freak, but the Fitness center was decent, if a little basic. There were the essentials; Gym/fitness as it goes, and not more or less.
For the Kids: Family Fun (Or at Least a Fighting Chance)
They list Family/child friendly and Babysitting service. I didn’t travel with kids myself, but I saw several families there, seemingly enjoying themselves. I didn't spot any obvious "Kiddie Zones," but the pool is definitely a draw. Kids meal were listed in the restaurants - a big plus.
Cleanliness and Safety: The "Must-Haves" in the Age of… Everything
This is another area where the Blue Moon deserves a round of applause. They're clearly taking safety seriously. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Rooms sanitized between stays, Professional-grade sanitizing services, and Staff trained in safety protocol are all listed. I felt safe, even when venturing into the local villages. Plus, the hand sanitizer stations were everywhere. Hand sanitizer is essential.
Let me talk about the hot water linen and laundry washing. I was amazed, especially after all the activities of a day.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food, Glorious Food! (And Coffee!)
Okay, food. My absolute favorite topic. The Restaurants at Blue Moon are fantastic! I'm a foodie, and I was in heaven. The Breakfast [buffet], with its Asian breakfast, Western breakfast, and the addition of Coffee/tea in restaurant, was incredible. Think fresh fruit, delicious Sri Lankan curries, and the fluffiest omelets you've ever had. (And yes, you can get Breakfast in room, which is perfect for those lazy mornings.)
Dinner was equally impressive. The A la carte in restaurant menu offered a wide range of options, and the International cuisine in restaurant was a true highlight. I particularly loved the seafood – fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. They really have embraced the Bottle of water tradition. Plus, there is a tempting Poolside bar…enough said!
I confess, I spent a disproportionate amount of time at the Coffee shop— the coffee was strong and delicious.
There's also room service, Room service [24-hour], which is a lifesaver at 3 am when your body clock is all messed up because of jet lag.
Services and Conveniences: Little Things That Make a Big Difference
They’ve got Air conditioning in public area, which is essential in Sri Lanka. The Concierge was super helpful in arranging tours and answering all my questions (and believe me, I had lots!). I really enjoyed the Daily housekeeping and the staff's willingness to go the extra mile.
Getting Around: Navigating the Island (and Getting to the Hotel!)
They offer Airport transfer. This is a must. The drive from the airport can be a bit crazy. The hotel also has Car park [free of charge] if you decide to rent one of those scooters. Taxi service are also available if you don't want to drive.
Available in all rooms:
Air conditioning: Essential, considering where it's placed, the hotel does not have a tropical climate. The Additional toilet is a lifesaver in a family room, while the Alarm clock, Bathroom phone, Bathrobes, Bathtub, and Blackout curtains are a pleasant bonus. Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping and Desk are also available in the rooms.
Let's talk about the bed! I had an Extra long bed that I could just sink into!
Final Thoughts & the "Is It Worth It?" Verdict:
Look, the Blue Moon Hotel isn't perfect. It has its quirks, its imperfections, and maybe some areas that could improve. But that's what makes it so charming. It’s not a sterile, soulless hotel chain. It has character, personality, and a genuine warmth that makes you feel welcome.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely!
My Honest, Messy, and Opinionated Offer:
Escape to Paradise: Blue Moon Hotel Awaits! (And So Does Your Sanity!)
Feeling stressed? Overworked? Ready to ditch the daily grind and soak up some sunshine? Then pack your bags and book your escape to the Blue Moon Hotel in Sri Lanka!
Here's why you need this vacation, like, yesterday:
- Sun-Drenched Bliss: Forget that dreary office. Imagine yourself lounging by the infinity pool, sipping a cocktail with the ocean breeze caressing your face. It's pure, unadulterated bliss!
- Spa Time = Sanity Time: Treat yourself to a blissful body scrub, a soul-soothing massage, or a luxurious foot bath at Blue Moon's incredible spa. You deserve it! (Seriously, you really do.)
- Foodie Paradise: Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavor! From authentic Sri Lankan curries to fresh seafood and international delights, the restaurants at Blue Moon will tantalize your every sense.
- Safety First, Fun Always: Relax and enjoy your vacation with the peace of mind that comes from knowing the Blue Moon Hotel is committed to
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your sanitized, perfectly-formatted travel brochure. We're heading to the Blue Moon Hotel in Sri Lanka, and honestly, I'm already slightly terrified and wildly excited. Let's see if I survive this, yeah?
Blue Moon Blues: A Rambling Itinerary (With Probable Mishaps)
Day 1: Arrival & That Damn Spicy Curry (Plus Jet Lag, Obviously)
- Morning (5:00 AM, ish, thanks jet lag): Land in Colombo. Holy moly, humidity. It hits you like a warm, wet blanket the second you step off the plane. Already regretting my decision to wear jeans. The airport…well, let’s just say it’s an experience. Finding my pre-booked driver felt like navigating a crowded marketplace in a fever dream. Eventually, I located him, a lovely chap named Prasad who’s smile was infectious.
- Morning (8:00 AM): Drive to the Blue Moon Hotel. The drive is chaotic beauty. Tuk-tuks whizzing by, vibrant saris flashing, and what sounds like a thousand car horns all singing the same, dissonant song. I spent half the time gripping the seat and the other half glued to my phone, snapping pictures. The world is new again.
- Late Morning (11:00 AM): Check in. The Blue Moon. It's…rustic. Let’s call it that. The lobby is airy, which is good because that humidity is relentless. The staff is delightful and friendly and the welcome drink, some sort of fruity concoction, is welcome. My room? Well, it has a view of…something. I think it’s a tree. It’s a view. It exists.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Lunch. BIG mistake. I ordered the "spicy curry." They weren't kidding. My mouth is still on fire hours later. I think my brain is also slightly singed. Prasad helpfully suggested a yogurt lassi. Bless him, it helped. Never underestimate the power of a cool, sweet drink in the face of chili-induced existential dread.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM): Attempted a nap. Failed. Jet lag is a cruel mistress. Just ended up staring at the ceiling fan, which, at this point, is the most exciting thing in my world.
- Evening (7:00 PM): Forced myself to go for a walk. The hotel is on a beautiful stretch of beach. The air is thick with the scent of salt and…something else. Flowers? Incense? It’s heavenly. The sunset? Unbelievable. Seriously, stop reading this and go look at a sunset. It's worth it.
- Evening (9:00 PM): Dinner. Avoiding curry like the plague. Opted for the grilled fish. Success! (Mostly. There was one lingering spice.) Fell into bed utterly exhausted.
Day 2: Beach Bliss (And One Terrifying Incident involving Sea Turtles)
- Morning (7:00 AM): Woke up to the sound of waves…and a gecko chirping in my room. Okay, nature, I see you.
- Morning (8:00 AM): Breakfast: String hoppers. They’re…intriguing. Still figuring them out. But the fruit? Divine. Seriously, mangoes that taste like pure sunshine.
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Beach time! Glorious, glorious beach time. The sand is soft, the water is warm, and I think I saw a monkey steal a coconut. (Probably just caffeine withdrawal.) Spent hours just…existing. No phone, no emails, just the sound of the ocean, the feel of the sun, and the delicious, existential dread of knowing I will eventually have to go back to the real world. Bliss.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Lunch at a beach shack. Fresh seafood, cold beer…life is good. Met a lovely couple from Scotland. They were on their third week of their trip and looked relaxed, I wonder what their secret is.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM): The Sea Turtle Incident: Okay, this is the part I'm still processing. The hotel organized a turtle hatching experience, and I signed up. (Foolishly?) We were supposed to witness baby turtles being released into the ocean. It was incredible, seeing these tiny things scramble towards the waves. But then…a rogue wave. A GIANT wave. It came out of nowhere. And it almost swept me away. I'm talking tumbling, choking on saltwater, clinging to a coral reef for dear life, and feeling the distinct terror that I might become lunch for something. Seriously. I managed to claw my way back to shore, soaked, shaken, and smelling faintly of the ocean. So, yeah, it was exciting. Terrifying. And, honestly, made me appreciate the simple act of breathing.
- Evening (6:00 PM): Back to the bar. Had a few more beers than I probably should have. Needed them.
- Evening (8:00 PM): Watching the stars. The sky is on fire. The vastness of the universe is both terrifying and beautiful.
Day 3: Exploring & Cultural Immersion (And a Lot of Sweating)
- Morning (8:00 AM): Another gecko sighting. Am starting to bond with it.
- Morning (9:00 AM): Prasad picks me up for a day trip. First stop: a local market. The smells! The chaos! The colours! It's sensory overload in the best possible way. I haggled for a scarf and probably got ripped off, who cares. It's beautiful.
- Morning (11:00 AM): Temple visit. The architecture is stunning, the incense is heavy, and the whole place radiates a sense of peace (despite the crowds). I was utterly mesmerized by the intricate carvings and the stories behind them. I'm not religious, but there's a spiritual energy here that's undeniable. Remembered to be respectful.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Lunch: Rice and curry (again!). This time, being cautious with the spice level. Thankfully, it was tolerable. Slowly getting used to the food, slowly getting the taste.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM): Visited a tea plantation. The rolling hills of green are breathtaking. Learned about the tea-making process (surprisingly fascinating!), and, of course, had a cup of fresh Ceylon tea. Amazing. Now I definitely want more tea.
- Afternoon (4:00 PM): Saw a waterfall. Incredible. Absolutely stunning. Took a million photographs and none of them do it justice.
- Evening (7:00 PM): Dinner at the hotel. Finally feeling like I'm starting to understand this place.
Day 4: Departure (And Reluctant Farewell)
- Morning (8:00 AM): Final breakfast. String hoppers, mango, and a heavy heart.
- Morning (9:00 AM): Packed my bag. It's heavier. Filled with souvenirs, new memories, and probably a few mosquito bites.
- Morning (10:00 AM): Said goodbye to the Blue Moon Hotel staff. Their smiles and kindness are part of the magic of this place.
- Morning (11:00 AM): The drive back to the airport felt strangely familiar. The chaos, the colours, the horns…I was part of it, now. Almost feeling like I can navigate chaos.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Land in Colombo airport.
- Final Thoughts: This trip was chaotic, messy, sometimes terrifying, and utterly, profoundly wonderful. Sri Lanka has burrowed its way into my soul. I'm sunburnt, a little bit wiser, and definitely craving more curry. I'll be back. I have to go back.
