Malkoha Studios

It’s perfect for a solo stay, clean, comfy and close walking distance to the action. Plus it’s connected to the best coffee shop in Hiriketiya

First of all, I absolutely loved the location – it’s stunning. You can sit there, enjoy a coffee or a refreshing cocktail, and admire the ocean view. The food was wonderful – everything I tried from the menu was simply absolutely delicious. The staff are very warm-hearted and hardworking, doing everything possible to make guests feel welcome and comfortable.

The only small suggestion would be a tiny kitchenette where you could, for example, make tea in the evening, and perhaps a shared mini fridge to store some fruit or small food items. Other than that, everything was perfect.

It's all brand new and beautiful. I chose Malkoha because of the location, the attractive design and because it offers private accommodation at an excellent price point. Although I love the open air concept, I was worried that sleep might be difficult - in particular, that it would be too hot - but actually it was very comfortable even in 30 degree weather (dare I say, serene) and some nights I didn't even run the fan. There is a cafe too - the food is good but the coffee is exceptional - and it was lovely to start each morning with a coffee overlooking the ocean. Plus all the guys working here are super friendly and chill.

So this didn't bother me at all but I feel I should highlight it for others. Although each bedroom comes with a lock, I quickly realized that I could just pick up the sliding door to gain entry even whilst the lock was in the locked position. I'm a man in my early 30's and don't travel with anything expensive so I felt very safe regardless, besides which there's a locked cabinet for valuables, however I can see this being an issue for other travellers, especially women.

It was clean and aesthetically beautiful. It was very close to the Hiri beach. It’s also right across the Dickwella beach, so fantastic location. It has an amazing vibe. If I come back, I will probably take the private rooms instead.

There were too many lizards everywhere - in the rooms, in the shower. It was scary for me. And one night, while I was walking to dinner, I saw a snake going out from the hostel area, across the road. I could barely sleep that night, since the rooms are open to the sky and anything can enter.