In December, I visited the Paragon for 13 days and found most things excellent. The staff are really great, especially new arrival Christine who went over and above to help me with my every need.
The reviews are true. The food and treatments are very good. Not to repeat the same, I will just make a few comments which may be useful.
Most guests are repeat guests and have come a few times before.
This is very much a place you can come to on your own and make plenty of friends of all ages. But if you can’t speak German, you might want to check if any English speakers are expected before you come.
I was the only non-German speaker for most of the time so at times the talk was all in German. Even the staff spoke to me in German when English was more likely their language. I didn’t really mind because it’s difficult for the speaker to say everything twice, but I did miss some things. A slight problem at times was when someone unable to speak English joined my table and we ended up staring awkwardly at each other for the entire meal.
The Wi-Fi is only in the lobby, dining room and shop. And it’s really inconsistent. There is a computer room with two computers if you need them.
There is a really lovely beach only 10 minutes away.
Outside the resort, you may be pestered by tuk-tuk drivers. Their aim is to get you into the jewelers shop or turtle farm so they can get a commission. Just be firm and say no nicely (unless you want to go – it won’t cost you more).
Double check all your treatments and what you need to do. I think I was very tired in the beginning so I got a lot of things wrong. Keep asking lots of questions.
If you really are an experienced at yoga, do not expect intense classes. They are for beginners. But you will especially appreciate the afternoon classes as that instructor will remind you about some important basics that you have forgotten.
The staff do not earn much and some tipping each week does seem the norm – it’s the same all around Sri Lanka.
Bring mosquito repellent. They can be a bit fierce around sunset. And enjoy the sunsets. They are beautiful most nights.
Yes, the hotel is on a busy road, but all I heard all night was the sound of the sea.