During their honeymoon in Sri Lanka, newlyweds Gina Lyons and Mark Lee unexpectedly ended up buying the beachside hotel where they were staying – all because of a night of heavy drinking. The London-based couple, aged 33 and 35, was enjoying their stay when they learned the hotel’s lease was almost up. Fueled by 12 glasses of rum, the idea of purchasing the hotel suddenly seemed perfect for their adventurous spirits and love of unique places.
The Decision Over Drinks
Sipping on rum as they admired the hotel’s quirky wooden treehouse vibe, the pair decided to look into the cost of leasing the property. When they discovered it would cost about $13,200 per year, they made an impulsive decision to go for it. The setting was simple and cozy, and the thought of owning a place by the beach was too tempting to resist.
A Hazy Negotiation and a New Reality
Navigating the hotel deal wasn’t exactly straightforward. With a bit of a language barrier, they enlisted two friends to help translate the negotiations, which only led to more rounds of drinks. In March, the couple agreed to pay two installments of around $19,798 to secure the lease, but as they worked through financial arrangements, they faced mounting expenses – from legal fees to renovation costs – and the surprise news that Lyons was pregnant.
Embracing Their New Life
Despite the skepticism from family and friends who thought the purchase was rash, the couple decided to fully commit to their new venture. By July, they officially became the owners of the now-renovated Lucky Beach Tangalle, investing close to $8,000 in updates. Since reopening, the hotel has seen a steady increase in guests. From now on, though, the couple insists any business decisions will be made with a clear mind – and no alcohol involved.
The Honeymoon That Changed Everything
What began as a simple honeymoon quickly turned into something far more life-changing for Gina Lyons and Mark Lee. The trip to Sri Lanka was intended to be a relaxing getaway, but the couple never imagined they’d leave with a hotel to call their own. Their spontaneous purchase has added an exciting, if challenging, new chapter to their story.
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