Renuka City Hotel

Renuka City Hotel and the sister hotel across the street operate very much as a single hotel, with the same management, decor, and shared facilities. The two are connected by a walkway over the street, so guests can access everything without leaving the building. Renuka is a popular hotel with business travelers who appreciate the reasonable rates and ease of access to city buildings. Couples are also drawn here for the clean, laid-back environment and quality amenities -- the rooftop pool and bar are a popular escape from Sri Lankan heat. Decor overall is modest but appealing. Many black-and-white tiled spaces are accented with dark greens and gold tones, there is little artwork, and embellishments are tasteful but reserved. The overall atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making guests comfortable during their stay.  

Renuka City Hotel is conveniently located just off Sri Lanka’s western coast in Colombo, the island’s capital city. It is in Kollupitiya, a district full of shopping and good restaurants, plus many foreign embassies. Kollupitiya Market -- a six-minute walk away -- is a collection of shops where locals bargain for fresh food, clothes, and a variety of other items. There’s a bus stop a five-minute walk from hotel, and it is a five-minute walk to the railway station, making it easy to access sights and businesses around the city. 

Viharamahadevi Park is a five-minute drive from the hotel. It is a popular spot with a playground and trails in the middle of the city. Next to the park there are several buildings of interest, including The National Museum (one of the largest museums in town), The National Art Gallery, and The Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theater. It is a six-minute drive to Gangaramaya Temple, a historic building with interesting architecture and a collection of artifacts. From the hotel, it is a 45-minute drive to Bandaranaike International Airport. 

Rooms are stylish and clean, with wood floors and mostly wood furniture against white walls. Accents are generally muted, often deep gold or mustard yellows in curtains and artwork. Some rooms have a more cheerful look with bright-yellow and royal-purple accents. Space is tight, though not unusually so for a city hotel. There is room for a double bed (or two twins), sitting area, desk, and wardrobe or closet. Standard amenities include a flat-screen TV, mini-fridge, kettle, and safe. Only a few rooms include a balcony, while most have large picture windows with a view of neighboring buildings. Upgrades offer options like more space, king-size beds, and sea views. Bathrooms are in good shape, done all in tile with black floors and white walls. Black marble counters offer a little space for sundries and there are good-sized walk-in shower stall. Hairdryers are provided, and free toiletries include soap, shampoo, body wash, and lotion. 

This hotel has the basics for a sightseeing vacation or an efficient business trip in the city. The restaurant is a stylish spot with excellent Sri Lankan and Indian food, though breakfast is extra (there are packages that include it), and guests find lunch and dinner more memorable. It is a popular restaurant with locals and tourists, so reservations are recommended. Room service is also available 24/7.

A lovely rooftop pool deck has a separate wading pool, black wicker sunbeds under tan umbrellas, and a bar. It’s a sunny spot with a good view of the city’s shoreline and the sea. The fitness room is on the small side, but it's clean and bright with a good range of modern equipment. A small business center includes a couple of computers and a printer, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.