The Change Hotel

Up a long winding road, this hotel is a little hidden gem. My driver negotiated his way and I admit I was wondering what I was going to be sleeping in! It was worth it. Change is a family run hotel, where you are made to feel so welcome. I had just come from climbing Sigiriya and was very hungry, and it was well after lunch time. However, the young man checking me in was very happy to make me a toasted sandwich - and it came with the best chips I've eaten for a very long time and salad. He did not hassle me to fill in forms and produce my passport and I felt very relaxed. My room was clean, the bed was comfortable and the bathroom was spotless. Everything worked! (Not always the case during my trip). The view from my balcony was beautiful and it was very peaceful. That evening I was due to go to a cultural performance and also the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, so would be late back for dinner. Again, the man made life so easy. My driver arranged to call as we were leaving Kandy and they would then start to cook my dinner. All I had to do was choose from the menu before I left. Result: I had the best curry and chicken with so many extras and all on a banana leaf, ready about 10 minutes after I returned. Bonus? I asked for the spice level to be not as hot as Sri Lankans like - it was perfect! I slept very well and I wished I were staying more than one night. Sadly, after a huge and tasty breakfast, I had to leave. Throughout, the staff were helpful, not pushy, friendly but not intrusive and I would definitely go back there again.