Just recently, the team has been working on a customer’s getaway to Sri Lanka. The brief? 15 days combining the culture of the stunning and sacred UNESCO World Heritage sites of Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Temple with a stay in the lush highlands; some time on safari in the National Parks and a relaxing beach stay at the end of the holiday. All in all, a perfect way to sample the many delights of Sri Lanka. So, next, where to stay?

Although fine for a short break, when you’re planning a tailor-made trip like this, the last thing you want is to stay in a series of large, bland, corporate-luxury style hotels which all look the same. So all the hotels that made our final cut are very different and distinctive in their own way. The common link is that they were carefully chosen for their chic styling, genuine welcome and service, and elegant surroundings. All designed to make our customers feel special.

First impressions count, which is why we chose the Park Street Hotel in Colombo. Perfectly placed to explore the city and just 40 minutes from the airport, it’s an elegant colonial-style house with 12 rooms located around a central courtyard and pool. Antiques and art work, high ceilings and spacious interiors make this an oasis of calm in the city. The perfect way to start your holiday!

Heading for the cultural heartland of Sri Lanka, we picked the award-winning Jetwing Vil Uyana in Sigiriya. This eco-themed hotel and spa has lakeside villas and chalets combining modern design with traditional materials and blends in perfectly with the surrounding natural beauty. The UNESCO sites of Kasyapa’s Palace and Polonnaruwa are within easy reach as well as elephant safaris in Minneriya National Park.

The Kandy House in Kandy is a stunning ancestral manor house with just 9 bedrooms, set amongst lush gardens with deep verandas. Antiques, vivid colours, aromatic curries and an irresistible infinity pool complete the tropical, arty feel.

For touring the World Heritage site of the Central Highlands and the stunning hill country, we chose to stay at Ceylon Tea Trails to experience the elegance of a tea estate which has four luxuriously restored tea plantation bungalows, styled uniquely with country house comforts. Each bungalow has its own dedicated chef and with its rolling, romantic landscape you can admire the superb views as you dine in style.

For safari in Yala National Park, we recommended Chaaya Wild with its luxurious jungle chalets where you’re close to the action and it’s not unknown to spot wild boar and monkeys in the grounds. After a day watching wild elephant and even leopard, what better way to relax than with a cocktail on the rooftop viewing deck?

Finally, we chose The Fortress near Galle for a revitalising beach stay at the end of the holiday. A luxury hotel with 47 rooms, overlooking the ocean with colonial architecture and pared down design, it combines the traditional seamlessly with modern services and a spa.  A chic way to hide out in Sri Lanka!

If you’re interested in travel to Sri Lanka, talk to us at Barefoot Traveller and for more about our choice of chic hotels, check out our 15 day tour with prices from £2,565 per person.

Here at the Barefoot Traveller office, we were discussing our ideal destination to escape the snow and ice and immediately the Indian Ocean and more specifically, the Maldives and Sri Lanka came to mind. The peak period for Winter Sun holidays in the Indian Ocean is starting to end which means there are often some great deals to be had, while the weather remains good and there are generally fewer people around.

The Maldives remains a favourite for those in search of total relaxation and an idyllic location. If you like every detail taken care of, then one of our recommendations is Mudhoo Island in Baa Atoll and the excellent Dusit Thani Resort.  It really does look just as good as the promotional pictures!

It’s a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice 2013 Winner noted for its luxury service and the high spec beach villas offer the comforts you’d expect from a top resort, including your own private butler service and stunning indoor and outdoor bathrooms.  With free wi-fi as standard, a BOSE sound system and NESPRESSO coffee maker on hand, it feels like a home from home.  There’s access to an on-site Thai spa, a choice of great restaurants but it’s the little touches like your own bicycle for the duration of your stay to explore the coral island which help to explain the consistently high ratings the Dusit Thani attracts.  For some welcome warmth & luxury, talk to us about availability at Mudhoo Island this May – July.

If you’re looking for something a bit more independent, we have to admit we’re slightly biased when it comes to Sri Lanka, one of the best destinations we’ve championed for years due to our specialist knowledge of the country.  Now, with visitor numbers on the rise and recently named as Lonely Planet’s top destination for 2013, Sri Lanka is starting to attract wider attention for representing such great value for money.

Sri Lanka remains an intriguing mix of ancient and modern. Here are just a few of the reasons to visit. Few places have as many UNESCO World Heritage Sites (8) packed into such a small area. With dazzling white-sand beaches and world class diving sites, you can enjoy the unspoilt east coast where the majority of hotels are still owned and run by locals keen to welcome visitors. And because everything is in easy reach (the country is roughly the size of the Republic of Ireland) you can spend the morning at the sacred home of the world’s oldest living tree at Anuradhapura and in the afternoon count the elephants gathering for a drink at Minneriya. If the tropical heat gets too much, you can always head for the hills and refreshment amongst the tea plantations and lush rainforest of the National Parks.

With our expertise, we can design your tailor-made trip and with more direct flights to Sri Lanka than ever before, it’s accessible, affordable and still mostly uncrowded.

So, there you have it, our choices of where we’d most like to go for some much-needed Spring sunshine!

If you are seeking the sun on your skin, head on over to te east coast to make the most of those beautiful white beaches and clear blue water as the weather during this period hugely contrasts against the opposite coast in Sri Lanka.

Despite its beauty the east coast has largely been off of the tourist map during the civil unrest inSri Lankabut with all the turmoil at an end, now is the time to take advantage of this beautiful side of the island. With no bustling crowds or cues and an extremely friendly welcome from the locals, who are of course keen to re-establish the tourism on the east coast, you’ll be very well taken care off and if it wasn’t so drastically different from home you’d think you were one of the locals!

Only one kilometre of the coast of Nilaveli beach and merely a fifteen minute boat ride, lays Pigeon Island, now listed as a Sri Lankan national park, it has some great snorkeling spots surrounding it and is a definite must see for any visitors. So if the weather forecasts what’s stopping you, don’t let it, head up the east coast to get the most out of this time of year, it’s a guarantee you wont want to leave.

You may decide to substitute internal travel by road with a domestic flight or an overnight train journey. You may have specific hotels in mind that you have always dreamed of staying in. Or you may wish to slow down the pace of the holiday or perhaps add a beach extension to the end for extra relaxation. Whatever you wish to do, our tailor made India travel experts can put together a program which is perfect for you.

There is so much to see, hear, feel, discover and absorb in India. It is truely a country which will assault all your senses in one go. India will leave you excited, exhausted, enlightened, sometimes shocked and often confounded. It will also leave you wanting more! In the North there remains much historic architecture in forts, temples and palaces which will delight you as you learn of ancient dynasties and days of glory. The very rare Bengal Tiger is a wildlife wonder not to be missed. In the South the pace of life is a little slower and here natural beauty abounds. From mountainous regions, hill stations and tea plantations to jungle forests and unspoilt beaches, there is so much to discover here. Where ever you go colourful culture and a sense of vibrancy rule.

The food of course is waiting to explode your taste buds in a burst of exotic spices. Local children will delight, annoy and sadden you all at once. Any form of transport is to be experienced to be believed. The unexpected is always to be expected. We will of course provide you with expert local staff and guides to help you to keep things running comfortably and as smoothly as possible. Do relax though and go with it – the odd surprise is part of your unforgettable travel experience! Already know what you want? Then give us a call and we can get started straight away on planning your dream holiday to India. 0208 741 4319

This perfect dive package is based on twin sharing accommodation at the Cobalt Coast Dive Resort on a bed and breakfast basis, it includes daily 2-tank boat dives, unlimited shore diving, a lion fish safari and your flights from London Heathrow

All for as little as £1,850 per person

(Prices are subject to availability and peak supplements will be applicable).

Note: additional or single traveller supplements are available on request

For any further information or to book this amazing dive experience complete the enquiry form or simply call us on 020 8741 4319

Searching for Serendipity in Sri Lanka for your Christmas Holiday?

Sri Lanka has over 800 miles of pristine beaches to choose from. So if it’s a beach holiday you want then you are well served. There are beach hotels available for all budgets from five star luxury resorts with a full range of water sports and spa facilities; to simple locally run guesthouses with a friendly family run feel. However Sri Lanka is not just about the beach. This island has much more to offer besides year round sunshine and relaxation.

Sri Lanka’s island interior provides a great cultural adventure with ornate temples, huge statues and heritage sites that will take your breath away. If you fancy a bit of wildlife head for Yala National park in the southern end of the island – or pay a visit to Pinnawela elephant sanctuary for bath time with a difference. Visit colonial relics and tea estates in the cool highlands for an insight into where you daily cuppa comes from.

Christmas is celebrated with fervour in Sri Lanka and not just by the small percentage of the population that are Christian. The celebrations begin at dawn on 01 December when fire crackers are set off to mark the start of the month long festivities with a bang! Children will doubtless sing you their rendition of Good King Wenceslas or Silent Night to gain your attention and hoping to avail some loose change. It is thought that the Portuguese are the initiators of Christmas being celebrated in Sri Lanka back in their rule from 1505 to 1650, followed by the Dutch and then the English from 1851 to 1948 so the festival remains firmly in the calendar of Sri Lankans. Christmas decorations light up shopping centres and private houses and children of all faiths raise their Christmas tree. It is a time for celebrating, feasting, sharing love and being with family whatever your faith may be. December 25 is a public holiday and many head to church on Christmas eve for midnight mass.

With average temperatures of 30C in December you could be feeling the heat at Christmas this year by taking your holiday in Sri Lanka. The cost of living in Sri Lanka still remains tremendous value for money so you can still afford some festive indulgence.

Why not join the celebrations and spend your Christmas holidays in Sri Lanka – the pearl of the India Ocean – this year and discover Serendipity for yourself.

Call us now to plan your Christmas holiday in Sri Lanka – 0208 741 4319

Barbados is a little bit of England on a paradise island and makes an ideal destination for your Christmas sunshine holiday. Christmas is taken very seriously on the island. Almost everyone puts on their finest, finest Sunday best and heads for church on Christmas morning. After the service it’s off to Queen’s Park for the most sophisticated of fashion promenades. The police band and gospel choir add music to the excitement. It’s an event not to be missed.

Locals queue up to get their Christmas cakes and almost every home is baking a ham to enjoy with friends and family. Homes are decorated with lights, the bright red Christmas flower Poinsettia grows wild in many a garden and you may be lucky enough to see Santa arrive at the beach on his jet ski!

Boxing Day heralds a race meet with a difference. This island is passionate about its horse racing and at Garrison Savannah the infectious energy of the crowd makes a great day out. Park your car on the side of the track and watch for free – or mingle with the rich and famous in the members enclosure. Either way you will have a memorable experience.

Sunshine is almost guaranteed so you can spend your Christmas Holiday relaxing on the beach with your favourite book and some ice cold drinks.

Barbados for your New Year Holiday

In Barbados December 31st is called Old Year’s Night. It is celebrated with the usual joyful Bajan passion for life, and some more. On the West Coast a fabulous firework display at Sandy Lane delights those who flock to the beach for midnight or you may like to take an Old Year’s night cruise and watch from the sea. Holetown’s 1st Street comes to life with a street party to challenge all celebrations. Later many drive to the East coast to watch the first sunrise of the New Year.

Barbados Winter Sun Holiday

The combination of year round sunshine, beautiful beaches, fine dining, a wide selection of accommodation for all budgets and a happy, cheerful vibe make Barbados an ideal deal destination in which to lift your winter spirits and take a tropical island break.

So why not try something different this year and enjoy a Winter holiday break in sunny Barbados.

Barefoot have a selection of hotels and villas to suit all budgets, call us now for details on 0208 741 4319.

Read more about Barbados Holidays here

See our Barbados Hotels range here

Location:
Banyan Tree is located on the south-eastern coast of Koh Samui at Lamai Bay

Room Type Selection:
Accommodation at Banyan Tree Koh Samui is built in Thai-style architecture with prominent structures that combine indoor and outdoor living space perfectly creating a spacious, free-flowing living area. Each villa is equipped with all modern comforts which include:
• Air-conditioning
• LCD TV
• DVD player & stereo system
• Wireless internet connection
• Pillow menu
• Turndown service
• Extensive bath menu

Deluxe Villa
Tranquil hideaway skirted by swaying palms and verdant landscaped gardens; all with standard amenities as above plus
• 191 – 222 sqm
• Spacious living room
• Private pool

Ocean View Villa / Deluxe Ocean View Villa
With breathtaking views from the higher slopes with opportunities to enjoy dramatic sunsets; villas each include amenities as above plus:
• 191-222 sqm
• Private pool
• Spacious living room

Beachfront Villa
Situated directly on silky white sand in front of turquoise waters villas each include amenities as above plus:
• 191sqm
• Private pool
• Spacious living room

Hillcrest Villa
Delicately poised on the loftiest peak of the resort offering extraordinary views of the Gulf of Thailand; includes amenities as above plus:
• 211 sqm
• Private pool
• Spacious living room

Spa Pool Villa
Stunning two-bed villa which features an in-house spa treatment room, with standard amenities as above plus:
• 237 sqm
• Private pool
• Spa treatment room
• Spacious living room

Sanctuary Villa
An expansive Villa which is a combination of two, one-bedroom villas linked by a connecting living room which provides the perfect solution for families or groups of friends; you will find standard amenities as above plus:
• 428 sqm
• 2 Private pools
• 2 bedrooms
• Spa treatment room
• 2 Spacious living rooms
• Interconnecting living area

General Facilities:
Banyan Tree Spa with 10 treatment rooms
The Rainforest; hydrothermal experiences and wellness centre
Gymnasium
Aerobics room
Swimming pools
Library
Games room

Restaurants & Bars:
Saffron
Signature restaurant offering thai cuisine and a delightfully authentic yet contemporary style

All-day Dining
Restaurant serving popular international favourites as well as local specialities at any time of day.

Beach Grill
Presenting freshly caught fish cooked to perfection close to the shore

Bar & Lounge
Serves thirst-quenching tropical cocktails with an original flair

Pool Bar
Ideally located for refreshing daytime refreshments such as juices and cocktails

In-Villa Dining
Arranged with ease for your privacy and enjoyment, an in-villa dining experience tailor-made to your requirements

Room Type Selection:
The hotel’s 327 rooms are lustrous and modern but have sophisticated design flourishes which create a warm aesthetic. The floor to ceiling windows ensure that natural light floods the space, as well as capitalising on the fantastic panoramic city views, for which the property is famous. The new Two-Bedroom Grand Banyan Suite provides utmost comfort and facilities with an extensive area rivalling city apartments.

General Facilities:
• Banyan Tree Spa
• Banyan Tree Club: executive club offering exclusive priority use of business and spa facilities
• Banyan Tree Gallery: a lifestyle gallery displaying a range of Thai arts and crafts
• Heated swimming pool
• Health club
• Extensive business centre facilities with 12 meeting rooms and full audio and visual capabilities
• Weddings

Barefoot note: Banyan Tree Bangkok affords guests great ease for shopping, entertainment and sightseeing.

Location:
• Situated on the pristine Tub Kaek Beach
• Krabi Airport – 38k – 40 minute drive
• Krabi Town Centre – 27k. 30 minute drive
• Ao nang – 17k – 20 Minute drive

Room Type Selection:
A fine selection of elegant guest rooms and suites with superb facilities. All room types enjoy the following standard features:
• Private bathrooms with bath and shower
• Colour TV with international and local satellite channels
• DVD player
• Broadband internet access
• Personal safe
• Minibar
• Hairdryer
• Air-conditioning with individual control
• Tea & coffee making facilities

Deluxe
Offering all the standard features listed above plus:
• 50sqm
• Unique interior design in Lanna style
• Partial ocean views from a private balcony

Honeymoon Deluxe
Embraced by nature these rooms are superbly designed to give a luxurious ambience for an unforgettable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Offering all the standard features listed above plus:
• 66sqm
• Extravagant private balcony
• Outdoor Jacuzzi or terrazzo bath.

Royal Deluxe
These sumptuous rooms are connected by a small walkway which makes them an ideal choice for families or groups. Offering all the standard features listed above plus:
• 43 – 60sqm
• Individual guest rooms can be closed for privacy

Spa Suites
Located on the top floor of the exclusive Sivari Spa and offering all the standard features listed above plus:
• 72-82sqm
• Deluxe guestroom
• En-suite spa treatment room
• Sizeable balcony

Ocean Villas
Prime beachfront location enjoying the beauty of nature these luxuriously decorated one bedroom private villas are ideal for a romantic candlelit dinner as you soak up the sound of the calm waves caressing the shore.
• 82sqm
• Exclusive plunge pool or personal Jacuzzi
• Spacious outdoor area
• Bedroom and separate living room with two TV’s
• Large wooden outside terrace with dining area

General Facilities:Sivara Spa
• A 3-storey building
• Massage, facial and body treatments.
• Freeform swimming pool and plunge pools with sunloungers
• Children’s pool
• Jacuzzi
• Spa
• Fitness Centre
• Excursion service

Children’s Facilities
• Children’s pool
• Cots
• Babysitting service