A delightful blend of global cuisine, an array of artworks showcasing Sri Lankan artists in focus, and exceptional hospitality — this is the sum of what I experienced during my two-night, three-day stay at Cinnamon Life in the City of Dreams, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Located in the heart of the capital, this luxury resort offers everything you could desire for a perfect vacation in this beautiful island nation.

With stunning views of the Indian Ocean on one side and the city on the other, there are plenty of opportunities to capture postcard-worthy moments. Upon checking in, you are greeted with a refreshing in-house coconut water drink called Sky, a perfect way to begin your tropical vacation. I recommend completing your check-in at the Sky Lobby on the 24th floor, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Lotus Tower. This tower is a major landmark in Sri Lanka as South Asia’s tallest self-supported structure and is situated along the banks of Beira Lake.

Property review of Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams
Colombo has many luxury hotels, but what sets Cinnamon Life apart? The property boasts 12 in-house restaurants and bars that offer a wide variety of international cuisines all under one roof. The hotel’s hospitality is unparalleled, with staff always willing to help. Additionally, guests experience the unique ambience of an art gallery, as beautiful artworks adorn almost every floor. Cinnamon Life features over 1,000 specially commissioned pieces created by Sri Lankan artists.

Kurundu Wellness offers a range of massages and wellness treatments. Upon arrival at the reception, you will complete a questionnaire that helps the staff determine which massage or treatment is best suited for you. After your session, you can unwind with hot tea and healthy fruit snacks before concluding your visit.

The hotel features 687 rooms, including suites, with views of the Indian Ocean, Beira Lake, and the city. Designed by renowned British-Sri Lankan architect Cecil Balmond, the hotel aims to provide an immersive experience. The available room types are:

Premier Life, Cityscape View (369 rooms)
Premier Life, Oceanfront View (281 rooms)
Oceanscape Suite (26 suites)
Skyline Suite (11 suites)

I stayed in the Oceanscape Suite, which included a living area furnished with a sofa, a TV, a small dining table, an Illy coffee machine, and snacks. The suite also featured a bedroom with a bed facing the ocean and a luxurious bathroom that included both a separate shower and a bathtub. It was a cosy space equipped with all the amenities and comfort one desires from a hotel room after a tiring day of exploration.

Services and facilities
24-hour concierge service
24-hour In-Room dining
Kids Club
3 lobbies
Parking space for 2,500 cars
24-hour all-day dining restaurant
24-hour fitness centre
2 outdoor pools
Wellness Centre
City experiences can be curated on request

Dining experience: Food and drinks

Food and dining are the main attractions at Cinnamon Life. Once you are at the hotel, you may not want to leave to eat. With various options, including Sri Lankan delicacies, Indian cuisine, a Gatsby-themed bar, and Asian restaurants, there is something to satisfy every palate.

My favourite was the Saturday brunch spread at Bistro Des Marées, a French restaurant serving mouth-watering bread, select wines, and much more. The black-and-white decor is absolutely Instagram-worthy.

Another highlight of my dining experience was eating at Indiya, an Indian restaurant. It’s rare to find delicious Indian food outside of our country, but Chef Bhairav Singh’s menu at this restaurant surprised me. He adds his own twist to dishes like mirchi ke pakode from Jaipur, nadru kebabs, and palak paneer, making every dish taste like home. What enhances the experience even further are the stories and inspirations behind Singh’s creations. This one is a must-try.

If you enjoy lounging by the pool with a drink, visit Dreams & Beats, which also offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Spend time here to soak in the sunset while enjoying an ‘In a Pickle’ cocktail.

Here’s the complete list of restaurants and bars:

Quizine: Breakfast and all-day dining
Cloud Wine: Bar for tasting some of the best wines available in Sri Lanka
Staten Bar & Grill: American steakhouse dining
Yoroko: Japanese cuisine
Sapphire Dragon: Cantonese & Sichuan cuisines
Indiya: Indian cuisine
Bistro Des Marées: Classic French cuisine
Sweet Lab: Desserts
Flux: Outdoor bar
Dreams & Beats: Poolside bar
Gatz: Great Gatsby-themed bar with live music
Pool+Bar09: Poolside bar and dining
So, if you want a wholesome stay, Cinnamon Life is perfect for a stop in Colombo on your Sri Lankan sojourn. You can find all the details on their official website.

How to reach Cinnamon Life
The hotel is about a 45-minute car ride from the Colombo Airport. You can book the hotel’s luxury car and limousine service for pick-up and drop-off. City taxis are also available at the airport.