terms of small hotels and villas; the plus side of which being that the number of tourist-friendly restaurants is likely to increase. The cottage is perfectly set up for families, especially as the two rooms to the front of the house have smaller double beds (or large singles), which would be perfect for children. However, it would be an equally good choice for a group of friends wishing to stay a little off the beaten track. The living areas – both inside the house and outside in the garden – offer plenty of cosy places to relax and private pockets for escape. The wildlife is magical here, and right on your doorstep. Whilst sipping afternoon tea in the poolside pavilion we watched monkeys playing in the trees as birds twittered melodiously overhead. The large lawned garden is a fansasyland for roaming kids but supervision is necessary around the pool as it quickly gains depth. The staff kept the house clean and tidy during our stay, and were on hand to assist us with anything we needed. The staff do not stay in the house at night although the gardener/watchman lives in a small building tucked independently to one side of the property. If the housekeeper is not needed to assist with making afternoon tea or dinner, you can dismiss her early and enjoy the run of the house all to yourselves.

doubt about where we were. However, Indisch did lose a few points in our book by being quite away from the good restaurants and shops to the east of Galle. Having said that we appreciate that this away-from-it-all location might be just what some people are looking for. Indisch is incredibly spacious, and with plenty of places to enjoy privacy it’s ideal for a couple of families, friends travelling together or even family reunions. There are two generous shallow areas in the pool where the little ones can paddle, or the older ones can wallow in the azure water, perhaps whilst reading a book or sipping exotic cocktails at sunset. There’s a wide verandah to the front (with sun screens that are very effective at reducing glare without completely blocking the garden and sea from view) where you can dine or sit quietly and read. We liked that there’s a music system built into the living areas, and the TV in the study is a good distraction for kids – and us, on a rainy day. Run like a hotel, Indisch is less economical than other villas since meals and drinks are based on a priced menu rather than according to the more usual cash and receipt system. The kitchen is principally the domain of the staff but parents needing to prepare children’s or babies’ meals are welcome to use it. As well as the vintage Mercedes which has just been restored for use, there is also a van at the villa which can be made available to guests, and bicycles can be organised on request.