Negombo, one of Sri Lanka’s most vibrant coastal cities, offers an exciting mix of urban energy and beachside relaxation. Positioned as a gateway for both leisure and business travellers, Negombo’s hotel scene has been growing steadily.
To experience what this bustling locale has to offer, The Sunday Morning Brunch spent a night at Earl’s Regent Negombo, a promising addition to Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector.
Located just minutes away from the city centre and only a short drive from the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), Earl’s Regent Negombo serves as the perfect retreat for visitors seeking comfort, convenience, and entertainment. With its strategic location and a mix of modern amenities, this hotel is carving a niche for itself among Sri Lanka’s hospitality gems.
About Earl’s Regent Negombo
Opened in November 2022, Earl’s Regent Negombo has quickly gained a reputation for its welcoming atmosphere and modern amenities. The hotel is part of the Earl’s Court Group, which manages a diverse range of properties, including the five-star Earl’s Regency Kandy and the four-star Earl’s Reef Beruwala. Earl’s Regent Negombo celebrates its second anniversary this year and is already looking to expand its offerings.
The hotel currently boasts 31 rooms, including 29 deluxe rooms and two junior suites. By 15 December, a new wing will add a presidential suite, five executive suites, and 33 deluxe rooms, bringing the total to 70 rooms.
Additionally, the hotel offers a spa, gym, conference room (with a capacity of 100), and a banquet hall that can host up to 300 guests. A rooftop bar, capable of accommodating 100 guests, is a highlight for private functions, complementing the hotel’s three other bars.
Insights from the management
Speaking to Resident Manager Mahesh Gunasekara and General Manager Kavindu Caldera, it’s evident that the team is deeply committed to offering guests an exceptional experience. “Typically, we attract long-stay guests. Negombo has a different charm compared to the south, and we’re working on promoting five-night stays to cater to this niche,” said Gunasekara.
While the beaches in Negombo may not rival the calm waters down south, the city compensates with its vibrant nightlife and cultural appeal. “Negombo people love to party and the nightlife here is always booming,” Caldera added. “This makes it a safer and more engaging destination for travellers who are looking for entertainment after sunset.”
The hotel’s guest demographic reflects its strategic location and appeal. Gunasekara explained: “Ninety-five percent of our guests are foreign, often booked through travel agents, while local visitors usually come on weekends or for residential conferences.”
The team expects an impressive 75% occupancy during the winter season, with long-stay packages being particularly popular among Dutch, Australian, English, and French travellers.
A refreshing experience
From the moment we arrived, the staff at Earl’s Regent Negombo impressed us with their warmth and professionalism. The check-in process was seamless and our room was everything one could hope for. The room was spacious, well-appointed, and equipped with all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.
For those seeking an elevated experience, the junior suite rooms are a must-try. At a generous 750.9 square feet, these suites are perfect for longer stays, offering not just comfort but also the luxury of space. We particularly loved the small living area and the balcony, which opened up to stunning views of the beach. As people who often find hotel rooms to be a standard, somewhat boring experience, we found this suite to be a refreshing exception.
The hotel’s culinary offerings were another highlight. While the buffet is currently modest in its range, it meets the standard expectations of a four-star property. The bar, on the other hand, exceeded expectations. With skilled bartenders behind the counter, it was the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring Negombo.
Attractions and activities
Earl’s Regent Negombo is well positioned to offer guests a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Nearby attractions include the bustling fish market, tranquil boat rides through the lagoon, and historical landmarks like the Negombo Fort. For those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture, Negombo’s churches and lively Friday and Saturday events provide plenty of opportunities.
The hotel itself hosts theme nights, such as the Sri Lankan buffet on the 17th of every month, and is planning a grand gala event on 31 December with a band and DJ. Additionally, day guests can enjoy the hotel’s facilities with a package that includes pool access.
Long-stay appeal
Earl’s Regent Negombo is positioning itself as an ideal destination for long-stay guests, particularly during the winter months when southern Sri Lanka becomes crowded with tourists. “Negombo offers a quieter, more laid-back experience compared to the south. It’s similar to Ella in that it’s close to key attractions yet maintains its charm,” said Gunasekara.
With attractive rates, the hotel is an excellent choice for those looking to spend an extended period in Sri Lanka. The hotel is also tapping into the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) market, offering mass catering facilities and residential conference packages.
Despite its many strengths, there is always room for improvement. While the buffet is satisfactory, expanding the variety of dishes could enhance the dining experience.
Additionally, given Negombo’s reputation for vibrant nightlife, hosting more themed events or live performances could attract an even larger crowd of walk-in guests, although it appears that management has this covered, given that they are incredibly in touch, with their fingers on the pulse when it comes to what their guests need most.
Earl’s Regent Negombo strikes a fine balance between comfort, luxury, and value for money. Its central location, excellent service, and range of amenities make it a strong contender in Negombo’s hotel scene. Whether you’re a business traveller looking for convenience, a leisure guest seeking relaxation, or someone in between, this hotel has something for everyone.