Thanks very much, Stephem. This is good advice. We might play it by ear a bit, seeing how we feel. The notion of the classic Galle Face hotel for dinner and especially and the family promenade scene nearby still appeals to me because, after two weeks on the beach (in SL and Maldives) beforehand, I think it would be a unique experience for my wife on the last evening of the trip--though I realize I may be over-romanticizing some distant memories of what it's like there. OTOH, an easy ride and relaxing evening closer to the airport has its appeal...