Ramada by Wyndham Colombo

Central positioning is a big draw at the Ramada Colombo, which has been welcoming international travelers since 2009. Concrete block facades are chain-like, although Islamic-arched windows have character, and decorative elements continue in interiors, which are either modern or old-fashioned. The large lobby's glossy whites floors and walls are sleek, and stylish additions come from lantern lighting and geometric-patterned seating clusters in grays, creams, and pinks. While the fresh look continues into Baked -- a patisserie-come-sushi-counter -- other areas are in need of a facelift. Despite its old-fashioned design, Alhambra Restaurant's North Indian delicacies are popular, and inlaid artwork here is tasteful. Guests mostly spend their days outside the property, although the outdoor pool's sequestered greenery is refreshing, and the dim-lit bar is buzzing during happy hour. Note that lingering cigarette odors have resulted in complaints.

Travelers choose this hotel for its stellar location, a block away from Galle Face Green. This seafront promenade spans five acres (12 hectares), and sprawling lawns here are lovely, often packed with fried food vendors and kite-toting children. Nearby attractions and restaurants can be reached on foot, by taxi, or open-air tuk-tuk. Fort Colombo business district is a 20-minute walk, and it's half that for the U.S. Embassy and Crescat Shopping Mall. Drives take around 10 minutes for Colombo National Museum and the Buddhist Gangaramaya Temple and its lake park. Pettah's lively markets are a similar distance, and Fort Colombo Railway Station is 13 minutes away by car. Allow around an hour by car from Bandaranaike International Airport.

Spacious rooms in neutral palettes are outfitted in typical, business-like decor that's a bit bland but mostly pleasant. They have light walls, striped carpet, and cream or silver fabrics in drapes, oversized headboards, and bed runners with leaf motifs. Sultan windows add Islamic accents, and retro orange or yellow chairs sit in corners. Large work desks with office chairs keep business travelers in mind, as do interactive flat-screen TVs, phones, ironing facilities, free Wi-Fi, and electronic safes.

Entry-level Deluxe Rooms have two queen-size beds or one king-size bed, while Suites add living areas and dining rooms in upgraded units. Marble bathrooms are swish, outfitted with big tubs and separate glass rainfall showers, as well as hairdryers, toiletries, slippers, and robes. Minibars, AC, crib fittings, and tea- and coffee-making facilities are provided. City-facing rooms can be noisy, but alternative pool-facing ones are quieter. Non-smoking rooms are available, but unfortunately, complaints of cigarette odors are universal.

Central positioning means guests aren't on-site all that much, although many opt in for dining and leisure offerings. Overlooking the pool's greenery, Gardenia offers Sri Lankan and international cuisine, alongside buffet breakfasts with Sri Lankan and Western options. Teal-accented woods and cheap-looking flower wall panels aren't impressive here, but trellis ceilings are nice. Fortunately, it adjoins Baked, a 24-hour coffee shop with a pastry and sushi counter, and neon signage here is upbeat amid stark-white decor. North Indian cuisine is exceptional at Alhambra Restaurant, which serves buffet and a la carte meals, and the room's intricate woods and carvings feel elegantly traditional. Alongside the modern lobby, Oasis Lounge's dim-lit bar offers a variety of beverages in an cozy space with a pool table and ample seating.

The rectangular outdoor pool is a serene, sunny space, wrapped by lush foliage and palms. Poolside loungers in woven wickers are on the tired side, but nearby dining tables are chic under black parasols, plus there's a hot tub. Large windows in the 24-hour gym overlook the pool, and Precor or Technogym equipment here is modern and comprehensive. Sadly, there's no spa, but there is a hair salon and sauna. The 24-hour business center accompanies 12 meeting rooms, a 900-person capacity ballroom, and full concierge. Pets are not permitted. On-site parking and Wi-Fi throughout are free.