Danish citizens Merete Scheller and Per Goodman first visited Arugam Bay in the early 1980s when they were taking a break from their then innovative rice-exporting venture. Although the natural beauty of Arugam Bay left them awestruck it was Goodman who was truly inspired by the potential of this destination.
After some convincing by Goodman, Scheller agreed to the purchase of a plot of land to build a small and simple basic hotel. This dream was pursued until the Stardust was complete, and vision became reality.
The hotel was soon in full swing with regular occupation by passing surfers and other visitors. This dream was to however turn into a nightmare one December morning in 2004, when the Boxing Day tsunami struck the calm shores of Arugam Bay.
The entire bay overflowed with turbulent rushing tidal waters and in minutes, everything that lay in its fatal path was destroyed. Scheller was in the restaurant at the time and she managed to seek refuge in the kitchen before
being dragged away by the currents, a kilometre away, ending up on the crest of some trees in the adjacent lagoon. Scheller waited till the waters subsided before returning to Stardust in search of her husband and staff members. Despite Scheller’s frantic search, news soon reached her that Per Goodman had perished in the tragedy. In total some 12 tourists and 250 locals paid with their lives on that fateful day in Arugam Bay.
This tragic event did not however break the spirit of Scheller who went on to slowly but surely rebuild Stardust to its former glory. She was helped along the way by her able and efficient staff and localcommunity members.
A new start
Stardust today is indeed a sterling example of the triumph of the spirit over trying circumstances. A brand new building designed by Scheller (an architect herself) now houses spacious and well appointed double rooms (eight in all). All rooms offer a mini-bar along
with attached toilets and private balconies coupled with ceiling fans all contributing to a comfortable and well-ventilated stay.
The large property also plays host to six cabanas that are equally comfortable but take on the appearance of thatched shelters. Blessed with a sea view these rooms are spacious and also offer a novel and interesting way of experiencing the Bay.
The large Stardust garden is a crowd puller as many flock to its sun beds that are shaded by thatched canopies. Here, one can idle the day through whilst sipping on fresh juices and refreshing home made sorbets and ice cream.
A few steps transport the guest from hotel to the sea. Adding value to the Arugam Bay experience is a devoted Yoga space that often sees leading Yoga trainers and guides visiting Stardust for extended periods where they conduct daily and residential workshops.
This article would not be complete without mention of the tasty, delicious and sumptuous Stardust cuisine. Housed in the main central building, the restaurant has seating for over 50 guests and serves a diverse menu that covers both eastern and western palates. The service is discreet but yet attentiveand the helpful staff are more than willing to guide guests through not only the menu but also the wine list that is probably the finest on the east coast.
Stardust offers internet access and also a large library as well. For the intrepid the Hotel can organise tours of local destinations and sites of tourist interest. With a renewed focus on the overall development of the east coast, Arugam Bay, its inviting surf, its friendly locals and the Stardust are all waiting for... You!
The Stardust Beach Hotel, Arugam Bay, Pottuvil; Tel / Fax (+9463) 224-8191 or (+9477) 906-7841; E-mail: sstarcom@eureka.lk / www.arugambay.com
During July - late October, 2008, Yoga teachers, Jael & Kevin will be visting the bay and will be based at Stardust. They will conduct daily classes for all levels.
