It’s a clear day in Colombo, complete with turquoise blue skies and the AQI meter reading 50. The view from the hotel room overlooks an infinity pool and a scenic 180* of the city skyline. We’re spending the weekend at Cinnamon Life Colombo – South Asia’s largest integrated resort.
Cinnamon Life Colombo is an ambitious project that blends luxury, leisure, business, and entertainment. Designed by the world-renowned architect Cecil Balmond, the 687-key resort boasts of 12 dining venues, a wine bar, state-of-the-art business and entertainment facilities. The best part? Mesmerising sweeping views of the majestic Indian Ocean.
As Sri Lanka emerges from a challenging decade, this $1.2 billion development by the John Keells Group is positioned as a strategic milestone for Colombo’s resurgence on the global map. The property is a fusion of luxury, culture and sustainability designed to captivate the global traveller.
Sri Lanka has long been known for its natural beauty, but the capital city is positioning itself as a multi-faceted lifestyle destination that rivals neighbouring metros. The city’s strategic location, cleaner air, and vibrant culinary options positions it as a strong contender in the South Asian tourism market. An emerging travel trend shows Indian travellers are picking vibrant and cost-effective destinations like Vietnam and Sri Lanka over local picks like Goa. With regular direct flights, easy visa on-arrivals, and a kinder currency, Sri Lanka is an incredible destination of choice.
We tour the hotel and find that at the heart of Cinnamon Life is its celebration of Sri Lankan heritage. Housing over 1,000 museum-grade artworks by local artists, the resort serves as a living gallery, blending contemporary design with cultural storytelling. 250 chefs at Cinnamon Life plate up an array of cuisine across 12 restaurants and bars, including a French bistro, American steakhouse, two-tier Champagne and cocktail bar.
The launch of Cinnamon Life has had an immediate impact on Colombo’s economy, generating over 20,000 direct and indirect jobs and supporting regional businesses. Upcoming additions include the 113-key ultra-luxury hotel “Nuwa,” a premium shopping mall, and state-of-the-art gaming and entertainment facilities, all set to open in mid-2025. These additions promise to further elevate Colombo’s appeal, attracting both tourists and investors to the city.
Chairperson Krishan Balendra of the John Keells Group describes the project as a “transformational venture,” expressing confidence that it will catalyse Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, enhance foreign exchange earnings, and position the country as a regional leader in hospitality.
By seamlessly combining local charm with world-class amenities, the development contributes to Colombo as an emerging hub for business, culture, and entertainment.
The spread is incredible, and the service is attentive. Grab a glass of fresh coconut water and head straight to the Sri Lankan counter – you will not regret it!
On a hot balmy day, wire up with a local grind paired with a creamy, luscious slice of cheesecake. Enjoy the views from the ocean from this coffee bar on the 24th level.
Get a cocktail or flute of champagne at this spacious bar spread across two levels.
Enjoy southern-French cooking in this charming ocean-view bistro. Your order should definitely include the Beetroot Salad, Gnocchi, selection of seafood, paired with the 2020 Caballo Loco.
After a day of shopping for local artefacts, cool down with a swim
Cloud Wine has already found many loyal local guests, and understandably so. An extensive selection of wines to explore from, with stellar views of the city. Order pizza, cheese boards and bottles of the 2021 Kadette Cape Blend for date night or games night.
This New York inspired steakhouse is warm, woody, and moody – perfect to enjoy steak, fries (possibly the best we’ve had!), washed down with a glass of Spanish wine (Pablo).
FACT SHEET
Visa: On arrival
Getting there: 45 minutes from the Colombo Airport
Weather: Ranging between 27°C to 32°C
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR)