Last week, Sri Lanka announced a new six-month pilot program launching on October 1, 2024, which will grant visitors from 35 countries—including most EU countries, the UK, the US, China, Japan, and Russia—free 30-day tourist visas. This is great news for anyone planning a vacation in Sri Lanka!
Our Fantastic Stay at DoubleTree Weeravila
We have fond memories of our visit two years ago. At that time, Sri Lanka had three Hilton properties: two Hilton hotels in Colombo and the incredible DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort. Our stay at the DoubleTree was fantastic. The resort, set in the beautiful natural surroundings of Weerawila Lake, offered a very relaxing atmosphere. We were upgraded to the King Bedroom Suite with Balcony, a spacious suite with a bedroom, living room, and a large balcony furnished with a comfortable sofa. We loved relaxing there, admiring the stunning views and the natura around us.
The staff were exceptional, and we especially enjoyed chatting with the restaurant waiters, who gave us excellent recommendations for local specialties. Although the hotel didn’t have an executive lounge, they offered happy hours with complimentary, delicious small platters and one drink per person.
We also booked a safari to Yala National Park through the hotel, guided by a professional, which turned out to be an unforgettable day filled with incredible wildlife and beautiful nature.
New Hilton Properties in Sri Lanka
Since our visit, Sri Lanka has added three more Hilton properties. One is the Hilton Yala Resort, not far from the DoubleTree Weerawila. This exclusive resort, with only 42 rooms, suites, and villas, has room rates typically 3 to 4 times higher than those at the DoubleTree. It’s worth considering booking this hotel with Hilton Honors points for 80,000 points per night, or even better, with the 5-for-4 nights promotion for 320,000 points.
Two years ago, DoubleTree rates were under $100 per night; they now start at $130, with high season (December to March) rates around $200. Additionally, there are two SLH beach resorts in Galle, midway between Colombo and DoubleTree Weerawila: Angel Beach Resort, with rates similar to DoubleTree, and The Fortress Resort and Spa, with rates just slightly lower than Hilton Yala Resort.
