Michelle: Newest addition to luxury hospitality

By Shabiya Ali Ahlam

The Michelle boutique hotel in Balapitiya is a truly exceptional experience in style, service and location. Set on the stunning sandy coastal belt, the boutique hotel, the brainchild of MOS Lanka Holdings Chairman Dr. Saman Weerasinghe, can be conveniently reached with just an hour’s drive from Kottawa on the Southern Expressway.

The Rs. 5 million worth BOI approved project ensures uniqueness as the architectural concept was strategised by Synergo consultants while the interior design was conceptualised by the creative Nayanthara Fonseka. Welcoming those looking for a private getaway since mid-February, the boutique hotel chants elegance and simplicity from the second one sets foot into its cosy lobby which overlooks the dazzling sea.  One can never underestimate how close it actually is to the sandy beach of Balapitiya – set foot on the terrace and you feel that you are literally on it. The trademark Sri Lankan warmth can be experienced at this exquisite property and the hotel is passionately committed to draw her guests with the finest in decadent hospitality.

With a staff of 55, the boutique hotel ensures that every single need of its guests is looked into. Practicing responsible tourism according to the standards set by the Sri Lanka Tourist Board, another noteworthy aspect is the fact that the entire boutique hotel and its facilities are accessible to differently abled persons.

Wine and dine

With fusion cuisine from the Far East and the most delectable cross border cuisine, from the Mediterranean to contemporary French, dining at Michelle’s Le Gourmand is certainly an unforgettable experience. The restaurant overlooks the sea as well as the pool, and the stoves of Michelle’s kitchen are ignited from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., allowing guests to keep to their biological clock at their own convenience.  Offering only fine dining, the Le Gourmand conveniently accommodates 35-40 persons in one sitting. Adding a bit of spice for romance, Michelle will feature a private signature dining area at the shores of the golden beach of Balapitiya by the mid this year. Just a step away from the restaurant is the Le Mirage bar where one can quench their thirst with the finest cocktails and beverages made available.  With a soothing atmosphere, the open bar is certainly a retreat and an ideal spot for cooling off after activities at the beach.

Accommodation

Michelle features 16 tastefully designed suites which fall under the categories of Deluxe, Super Deluxe, Rose Petal and Infinite, where each is set under a unique theme and structure. The Infinite suite, which is the highest grade, comes with a large plunge pool and a private balcony viewing deck. With an attached pantry, kitchenette, living, and dining area, the lavish suite includes 24-hour butler service as well.

The remaining suites, which are also quite a hideaway of warmth and cosiness, have either a spa bath or a plunge pool while a few come with an attic and a private balcony. All suites can easily accommodate a family of two adults and two or three children, with the floor area of each ranging from 730 square feet to 1,650 square feet, and comfy convertible sofa beds are available in addition to the king size master bed.

Providing amenities no less than what a five star grade hotel would offer, few features of the spacious suites include a mini bar, movie library, wireless broadband internet, satellite TV and a pure pamper pillow menu. Blending elegance with class, all bedroom linen and toiletries are custom made for the luxury boutique hotel.

With direct view of the sea, the suites of Michelle are a feast to the senses to refresh one’s spirit and radiate an atmosphere of timeless elegance.

Recreational facilities

A home away from home, Michelle has a gymnasium with custom made equipment. In addition to this facility, the boutique hotel has a rooftop spa with a spectacular view of the ocean where one can pamper themselves with luxurious treatments by Balinese therapists. Managed by the prestigious Ariyanna, which is a part of the Azmaara spa management company, the spa would be in full operation by the end of March 2013.  A large timber deck and terrace is the ideal place to relax with the sounds of the sea and its breeze, while a dip at the medium sized pool is also inviting as it sits between the bar and the terrace which again faces the sea.

Activities close at hand

Michelle would never allow her guests to be bored and out of things to do, as in addition to its recreational facilities are eventful activities just about the vicinity. With water sports such as snorkelling, sailing, water skiing, wind surfing, and boat rides just a stone’s throw away, the must explore sea life is just at hand where one could witness sea turtles and unique sea plants by simply taking a walk along the seashore.