Auraliya is a stylish six-bedroom beach villa in Thalpe, just a short tuk tuk ride from Galle Fort and lively Unawatuna Bay. The house is designed in a courtyard shape, around a beautiful turquoise swimming pool. Living and sleeping areas are separated between three large pavilions, all of which have high ceilings and terrazzo floors, giving the house an open, relaxed feel and providing a welcoming cool haven from the heat of the day. Highlights of this villa include the air-conditioned sitting room with cable TV, an open-air dining pavilion and a small bar in a pavilion which looks out to sea – the perfect place for a sundowner. Adjoining the villa is a large garden with frangipani trees and coconut palms, which leads down to a beach which is protected by a coral reef and offers safe swimming all year round. The house is fully staffed: a cook, houseboy, room girls and a night watchman will take care of you during your stay. There are six bedrooms to choose from at Auraliya – the property can house up to 12 guests at a time.