Seamless minimalism was always in vogue, but perhaps not here. Oscar Wilde may have condoned, and indeed, craved excessive indulgences, yet Amari Galle is a 5-star abode that caters to simplicity and excessiveness in equal measure. Located in an idealistic setting, this mosaic of hospitable living lays close to some interesting attractions, such as the Galle Fort, which is a mere 5 kms away while water sports, antique hunting and temple explorations are veritable activities present. Moreover, Galle has also made a name for itself internationally by being home to an International Cricket Stadium, as well as being a diverse location that celebrates the arts and inspires new thinking. The Galle Literary Festival, which is held annually in late January, attracts authors from far and wide, as well as those with an appreciation for the written word.
Still for all, the real star here in this article is the property itself, which one would think is christened with the names of colours that bring to mind comfort and serenity, which promises a meditative experience. Having many-a-friend who studied under architectural demi-gods like Channa Daswatte, this hotel, which is a lesson in how to admire beautiful things, was inspired by that veritable titan in art itself, which is Nature herself.
The natural beauty of the Galle coastline has inspired Amari Galle’s architecture and design. A panoramic view of the ocean, the gentle sea breeze and the warm southern smiles of the Amari Galle team greet guests upon their arrival. The lobby is inspired by the elements of earth, wind and fire intertwining to create a feeling of calm. Mesmerizing textures and patterns created with natural materials such as water, fire, plants and wood, form the backdrop to the lobby. Within this serene atmosphere, guests are welcomed by two signature sculptures that pay tribute to the beautiful coastline of Galle. A large, magnificent fixture resembling corals adorns one wall whilst another reminiscent of beach parasols adorns the opposite wall.
Vertical fins with wood finishing, marble floors and a subtle punch of colour stand side by side illuminated by soft lighting. Amari Galle consists of unique spaces designed with the elements of nature, refreshing the weary traveller and preparing them for a journey of fun and relaxation.
All of those aforementioned inimitable traits have played their merry part in lending a sense of perfection to the lines, motifs, choice of paintings, custom-designed furniture, and airy spaces that constitute that hidden haven — Amari Galle. One of the more interesting facets of this property that is very intrinsic of the brand that is Amari is the curious yet inimitable design of the fan, which can be seen on these pages. Additionally, a drone-view of the property is sure to offer up a view of red-tinged umbrellas, which upon closer inspection, is highly reminiscent of the Amari logo – an extension, if you will, of the brand’s promise of offering a different perspective of the “Asian Experience”.
Puneet Dutta, who was earlier the Resort Manager at Amari Havodda Maldives, was recently promoted as the General Manager of Amari Galle by the ONYX Hospitality Group. With an eye on long-term sustainability and also a laser-focus on business trends, Puneet is a firm believer in utilizing data to drive logical decisions forward that will lead to considerable return on investment.
Puneet is a stickler for perfection in all things, and the service of the staff is imbued with that typical Lankan hospitality, which is only endemic to this sun-kissed island floating near the tip of India. Having travelled internationally across 14 countries, I must admit that the work ethic, creative prowess, business acumen, and interpersonal skills of the Amari Galle staff left very little to be desired during my stay there.
Etiquette is held to a higher standard here with cutlery, plates, and tableware transitioning from one sunny set to another as breakfast gives way to lunch and finally surrenders to the fulfilling promises of dinner. The service complements everything else on this property; true gourmands of food will appreciate the menus on offer, which are carefully crafted by a kitchen staff that are veritable doyens of heady gastronomical delights.
On a personal note, I would urge guests to request that heady homemade Chocolate Chip Ice Cream, which has passed through the stringent taste tests that Puneet is known for, where every single teaspoon promises a different adventure every single time. Yet this is a very subjective admission but rightfully so. Nothing beats that Lankan breakfast of Dosai, Croissants, Cheese and Bacon. Such tantalizing comforts are aplenty especially when it comes to food and drink, yet this vast airy property also promises modish essentials for those who deem it a necessity to stay in touch with the digital world — think Wi-Fi, satellite TV, printer, and an iPod dock.
Pushing that envelope of personalized luxury a bit more, wellness and wellbeing are running themes here. Discerning guests can request massage treatments at the well-facilitated Breeze Spa, and yoga classes while a dip in that cerulean pool will suffice for most. That pool — given the right time of day — is a sun-dappled duvet suffused in blue, which is a bed of chill, with the attentive staff serving you a choice of cocktails as per your desire. A gym is present, but the only exertion required is to surrender to the task of self-indulgence.
Amari Galle may sit poised with a confident air, promising 5-star amenities and facilities, however, just like art, this place is an experience and will be something different to everyone. Speaking of art, expect an abstract visual treat adoring almost every wall with swooshes, lines, curves and inspired strokes of purpose — all open for translation.
Nature is bound to always have the last word when it comes to showing the world who really is the undisputed artist of them all. Located in very close proximity to the beach, this property is a sliver of heaven — if there ever was one — in Galle. A sensorial experience awaits in the rooms. The bed and furniture linen have been carefully chosen to add a sense of homeliness to the entire ambience while the bric-a-brac and architectural lines are inimitable to say the least.
Bookworms will find their ideal home here to rest and rewind, and finally realize that — as this particular writer found out — words, adjectives, synonyms and hyperbole really can’t do any justice to Amari Galle at all. Rather make a trip down to this nest of comfort, experience it, and craft your own memories that are ideal for a lifetime.
Written by Rohitha Perera |
Photography by Sampath Munaweera