Polgahawela Vacations & Trips from $660

The staff was really great. The rooms are ok for the price. Breakfast was decent. The Punjab restaurant outside was fantastic.

best hospitality, cheerful and smiling staff. chef was amazing

Beautiful location surrounded by stunning nature, with amazing rooms and a breakfast of a very high standard. However, the grounds and overall maintenance do not reflect the level expected from a Relais & Châteaux or Michelin Key property. There were dry leaves and weeds throughout the territory, and several trees appeared infested or dying. For such a large estate, there should clearly be more gardeners and stronger attention to maintenance and cleanliness. The lunch and dinner offerings were also disappointing considering the prices charged. At this level, the quality should match the cost. In particular, dishes prepared with raw tuna were served with the fish appearing brown rather than bright red or pink. As a cook myself, I know this indicates oxidation and a lack of freshness. I was also surprised that the concierge sent me an unsolicited bill via WhatsApp the night before checkout while I was still relaxing and my departure was only the following morning. At high-end properties, the guest experience is usually handled in a far more seamless and discreet manner. I have stayed at several Relais & Châteaux hotels before, and unfortunately this was among the weakest experiences in terms of service and guest handling. I would recommend taking inspiration from the Constance hotel group, particularly Prince Maurice, which understands luxury hospitality and guest relations at a much higher standard.

The Postcard is an excellent hotel for a relaxing holiday. It is literally on a lagoon with the water touching the property. The foliage has been maintained very well to give the property a serene and thick green cover, which adds to the calm. The best part of the property of course are the people. Bharatvir and Ajith run the hotel very well with all staff out of sight but any food or service is available within a shout away. It is also a short drive away from Fort Gaulle, also a nice little charming town. I highly recommend it.