Thank you very much for your supportive review, I read it purely as constructive rather than nit-picking! Above all, many thanks for choosing Buckingham Place and then ‘clicking’ on five stars.

As you’ll appreciate, it’s impossible to satisfy every guest all of the time but, I personally believe we should try and if we haven’t or if we can’t because of policy or circumstance, we should at least explain why and apologise when appropriate.

With respect to your observations; I tend to look more towards beer and spirits than imported wine to achieve the necessary ‘mark up’ on bar products. Originally the suggestion of a former guest our answer to high import costs, tariffs and levies on wine (and foreign liquor) enables us to serve a decent bottle of wine at a reasonable price and thus generally, we satisfy hotel diners irrespective of the country they hail from or the exchange rate we are judged by. All the same, we currently serve a cool and pleasant local beer in a chilled glass at our restaurant, suites or in the garden for (circa) GB1.75 (325ml).

The delay in collecting your used tea-tray is a ‘no excuse’ mistake and a training issue for me - already in hand I believe. I apologise unreservedly for your inconvenience and add; one of many reasons for not providing brew facilities in accommodation is to avoid encouraging ants, normally we are considerably more attentive in this regard. Also, the team might not have made clear, all tea/coffee served before and during breakfast is included in overnight rates - in other words, top-ups are completely free. If we overcharged can you please email and tell us? We'll put it right, thank you. Invariably too, cool soft drinks/coconuts are served without request or charge to guests relaxing on sun loungers, in part to ensure they don’t dehydrate. Sadly I was absent during your stay so unable to comment further, other than to say sorry if communication was lacking on our part.

To answer your final point; I fully agree, the public road and public track to the beach are pretty awful, especially after rain. Regrettably we’re not allowed to take repairs into our own hands but, thankfully progress is being made in this regard. Things can move slowly in rural Sri Lanka, a new village road was muted 12 years ago! Sorry about the road and track.

To conclude on a light note; I hope your surprise at finding proper ketchup and the correct brown sauce on your breakfast table will in part, count towards an enduring memory of your stay with us. Honestly, we try to get everything right for everyone simply because that’s our job and we like to see our guests more than once.

Please do return and if I have myself returned by then please remind me of your previous stay, I’ll happily stand you a beer!

Best wishes and thanks once again, Nick & the Team

Thank you for adding your amazing review to many others.... thanks too for your kind offer to join the staff team!

As you may know I’m unavoidably absent from Sri Lanka at present so, it’s really great to know the team is every bit as capable and hospitable as usual and, most importantly, our guests are just as happy. I've been away from the hotel many times, knowing each time I leave it in safe and commited hands. Nonetheless, when former guests commend the team as you've done it naturally adds to the confidence I place in them and their future security.

For me to read “Nothing compares...” and that you “fear that no other place will live up to this!” is tremendous praise frankly, I know the team will be equally thrilled and proud to know of your high regard for what they do.

From me and on behalf of the Buckingham Place Team, sincere thanks for; choosing the hotel, your good custom and, your much valued support.

Please return soon.

Best wishes, Nick.