Hotel East Lagoon in Batticaloa, Sri Lanka, sits about 1,5mi from the city center. Address: Munai Lane, Uppodai Lake Road, Sinna Uppodai. The property has 179 reviews, and prices start from $37.

Facilities include a restaurant and an outdoor swimming pool (free), plus free WiFi and private on-site parking (free). Other practical touches include a 24-hour front desk, air conditioning, a terrace and sun deck, a bar, and a tour desk. Rooms are non-smoking and offer lake view or garden view, with features such as a bidet, bathtub, and balcony, and upper floors accessible by elevator.

Additional services are available for a fee, including shuttle service, airport shuttle, meeting/banquet facilities, and a business center.

Dining at the hotel is a mini-journey in itself, with an on-site restaurant offering a wide array of flavors—from Chinese and Indian to Italian, seafood, Thai, Local, and Asian dishes. It’s a great way to sample something new without wandering far, and the terrace and sun deck provide a relaxed spot to unwind with a drink afterwards.

A thoughtfully varied lineup of rooms awaits, including Honeymoon Suite (355 sqft) with a queen bed, Executive Suite and Suite (both 646 sqft) for extra space, and Family (301 sqft) with a twin and a queen bed. There are also Deluxe options (270 sqft) and a Deluxe with 1 Twin (269 sqft) designed for triple occupancy. All rooms are non-smoking and accommodate up to two adults and one child, with lake or garden views and some rooms offering a balcony for a touch of outdoor feel.

Payment is flexible, accepting cash as well as Mastercard and Visa cards, making it convenient to settle up after days spent exploring Batticaloa.