Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ponds and lagoons between Arugam Bay and Panama are prime areas, and home to water-
fowl and waders.
Sleeping
All the following hotels and guesthouses are on the beach or nearby. Many places have a
kind-of homespun charm and remain family-owned. The term 'cabana' refers to anything
from ultra basic plank or
cadjan
(coconut-frond matting) huts to luxurious full-facility
bungalows. Low-season discounts of 20% to 35% are common.
Beach Hut
CABANA
600, cabanas Rs 1000-1500; )
A quirky, locally-owned beachside place with loads of atmosphere and a loyal clientele of
backpackers and surfers. There's a choice of digs (all built from timber, bamboo and
thatch) including treehouse-style cabanas and A-frame huts - most are only steps from the
ocean. The restaurant to the rear has a large table for socialising, a shady terrace and good-
value meals (Rs 400 to 700).
Laundry and good local tours, including boat trips on the lagoon, are offered too.
Nice Place
GUESTHOUSE
Run by a lovely lady (who'll whip up everything from an espresso to a fish curry), this fine
guesthouse has immaculate rooms with lovely touches, including attractive floor mats and
curtains, that face a little garden compound. The fan options are fine value. It's beachside,
around 100m from the sand.
Samantha's Folly
CABANA
cabanas Rs 3500-4500; )
Highly popular with travellers, thanks to its gregarious vibe, guest kitchen and communal
dining. Samantha's pioneered the 'folly' - a bamboo frame topped with a thatch roof -
