Opened in 2006 and built almost entirely by the hands of its British owners, Asian Jewel Boutique can be a welcomed respite for those seeking a different experience among the plethora of large and impersonal hotels rising up along the Hikkaduwa strip. While only about a 10-minute drive inland from the hubbub of the beach strip, this small five-room boutique feels ages away. As guests ride down winding residential dirt roads -- past potholes, locals, and unmarked buildings -- the chaos and loud noises so often found in Sri Lanka's more populated (and thus more touristy) areas fade into the background. The journey is filled with dense vegetation of leafy trees, flowering bushes, and (unfortunately) a bit of trash resting in puddles on the street, before reaching a high rock wall with an iron gate. Just a bit further down the red dirt road (or from your room's private balcony) you'll find a serene lake.

Once through the gate, guests are greeted and check-in proceeds with an orientation of the area and a cool welcome drink. A benefit of smaller boutiques and added bonus of Asian Jewel in particular is the level of service from the staff -- from that first handshake and introduction, to the welcome drink with personal conversation, to the brass bell poolside service. Western classic hits play as background noise, pool loungers are set up and waiting, and a few lazy cats hang about the property.

Under a 10 minutes' drive from the bustling beach and main area of Hikkaduwa, Asian Jewel Boutique is located in that sweet spot of being not too far from the action, but far enough away to have a relaxing, local vibe. Just across a dirt road from Hikkawduwa Lagoon and Bird Lake in a more residential area. From Asian Jewel Boutique it is about a 30 minutes' car ride south to Galle, just over two hours north to Bandaranaike International Airport in Negombo, and 40 minutes north to the popular Bohemian beach strip in Unawatuna.

All five of Asian Jewel's rooms are on the second floor where walls and space were designed and built by the owners themselves, giving each room it's own individual perks and decor -- albeit they feel a bit dated and sparse. While the dark varnished furniture gives the rooms character with a slight feeling of datedness, the fact that many of the pieces are hand-carved is remarkable. Minibars are stocked in high season and on-request in low season. All rooms have private outdoor balconies with sturdy wooden and woven rattan chairs. Luxury and Deluxe Rooms have views of the lake just across the red dirt road from the hotel, while the Family Room has a large, twice-wrapped around, zip-zagging balcony and terrace overlooking the pool and lake. The two Triple Rooms have the least desirable views, with balconies facing the very nearby neighboring house.

Standout perks of the Luxury Room include its lagoon view, relatively private balcony position, and huge raised bathtub. The Deluxe Room shares the same view as the Luxury Room, through the room itself is much small and there is only a shower. The massive wraparound balconies and ability to connect to a smaller twin room (with a shared bathroom) give the Family Room its name. And the Triple Rooms, though lacking an nice view, are well-sized with double beds, plus a single bed and larger bathroom in each, making them ideal for families with smaller children or traveling friends. It's good to note that in high season the minibars are fully stocked, but in low season they are stocked only on request.

All rooms have tiny tube TVs.

Aside from the friendly service Asian Jewel has become known for, the small hotel has a surprising amount of features for its small size. The hotel frames a large courtyard area with a central, bean-shaped swimming pool, complete with a sharp sloped bottom. Here guests will find a grassy area with wooden lounge
chairs set up, topped with cushions, towels, and a brass bell for service. If you're traveling with kids, please mind the fenced off old-fashioned water well that shares the same space. With the ring of a bell, guests can order snacks, meals, and drinks from the restaurant and bar.

Fully outdoors but covered, the restaurant serves local and international dishes with a heavy English-based selection, thanks to the UK owners. This is one of the only spots in Sri Lanka where you can grab a hearty Full English or even a Sunday roast with all the trimmings (the latter requires at least a week's notice). The kitchen is run at full European standards and the menu was designed by one of the owners who used to be a chef. The restaurant faces both the pool and lagoon, and wraps around the indoor lounge and bar area. Here's where guests will find a pool table, jukebox, large flat-screen TV with cushy couches, selection of DVDs and books, and small four-stool stone bar area.

These facilities are all available to non-guests provided they dine at the restaurant. Guest-only benefits include free Wi-Fi and a welcome drink.