New Hotel Openings [Archive]

Shakeel

June 22nd, 2012, 01:36 PM

Summer Season ~ Negombo ~ U/C

www.summerseason.com/

Located in the vicinity of Negombo village, approximately 45 minutes drive north of Colombo and only 15 minutes from the island's International Airport, Summer Season is a grand beach hotel in the tradition of old colonial masterpieces.

As well as luxurious guest rooms and suites, the facilities include ballrooms, multiple restaurants, a luxury spa as well as a children's water park, parking and service areas. The hotel accommodation is orientated entirely towards the ocean, giving every room a sea view and a balcony. In front of the hotel block, extensive landscaped gardens and pools will provide space for guests to relax. The pools will give a variety of swimming & sun bathing environments for those who choose not to swim in the sea.

Located at the front of the site is the conferencing facility, composed of a ballroom (divisible into 4 spaces), pre-function and support areas. There are dedicated rooms for wedding participants, and covered walks linking back to a retail arcade and the hotel lobby spaces.

The spa will be designed as a 'village' facility set within a walled water garden. Amongst the lily filled ponds will be treatment pavilions, a salon, and fitness studio and relaxation area. Lush tropical planting will screen the spa for privacy, and a water connection allows users to swim to the beach if they prefer a change in environment.

The resulting design is a grand and commodious building, setting a new standard for accommodation in Sri Lanka. The hotel has the potential to become 'the' setting for society events, weddings and gatherings. The guestrooms will be the most luxurious on the island, and with its proximity to Colombo and the airport its restaurants and spa are expected to be well frequented .

mrpanini

June 22nd, 2012, 02:07 PM

mrpanini

June 22nd, 2012, 02:11 PM

Render 1 and 2 looks like the Bellagio in Las Vegas
http://www.lasvegasgateway.com/images/Bellagio-Hotel-Las-Vegas.jpg

Shakeel

June 24th, 2012, 12:44 PM

saraprobe

June 24th, 2012, 01:42 PM

Summer Season hotel, Negombo
http://summerseason.com/images/content/13267930911321846638View-1.jpg

http://summerseason.com/images/content/13267930911321846638view2.jpg

This rendering shows a different and more Sri Lankan design
http://www.summerseason.com/images/contactus_03.jpg

http://www.summerseason.com/content-photosandvideos

This is too good to be true,,, fingers crossed,,,have u guys head this development be4?

saraprobe

June 24th, 2012, 01:47 PM

This is too good to be true,,, fingers crossed,,,have u guys head this development be4?

It says 442 rooms , i remember he was saying nearly 500 rooms hotel,,, Ohhh i get it now,,,, i think this is developed by valibal One,, controlled by self made millionaire Dammika Perera :cheers::cheers::cheers:

Shakeel

June 24th, 2012, 02:16 PM

We need more known and unknown openings or constructions in progress within Colombo and outskirts. Whoever reading this please contribute more as we have limited interested members.

Amal

June 24th, 2012, 02:51 PM

Built at a cost of Rs. 750 million and located 27 kilometers away from Trincomalee town on a strip of land between the sea and dense mangroves, it takes maximum advantage of the beach front and the lagoon view. The property offers a jungle experience at one end with the other opening out onto the ocean, close to the popular Nilaweli Beach. The hotel has 48 spacious cabins that feature king-sized beds, high-end entertainment systems, sun decks and other modern amenities.
From the hotel it takes only a very short time to travel to places of interest including the Trincomalee Harbor and Hot Water Springs. Adventure will be the strong focus at Jungle Beach with some water based activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, snorkeling and whale watching being on offer. Among the land-based excursions are bird watching, tours to the Thiriyaya archaeological site, Sri Lanka’s oldest Buddhist temple and an ilmenite factory. http://news.experiencesoutheastasia.com/2012/05/brand-boutique-hotel-sri-lankas-east-coast/

JUNGLE BEACH HOTEL

http://med.gov.lk/english/wp-content/gallery/2012-06-22-jungle-beach-in-trico/14.jpg

http://med.gov.lk/english/wp-content/gallery/2012-06-22-jungle-beach-in-trico/13.jpg

http://med.gov.lk/english/wp-content/gallery/2012-06-22-jungle-beach-in-trico/11.jpg

http://med.gov.lk/english/wp-content/gallery/2012-06-22-jungle-beach-in-trico/10.jpg

Hon.Basil Rajapaksa opens ‘Jungle Beach’ in Trincomalee
http://med.gov.lk/english/?p=12220

This is by the same people who run Ulagalla ( http://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Hotel_Review-g2335977-d1876504-Reviews-Ulagalla_Resort-Thirappane_Anuradhapura_District_North_Central_Province.html )... which gets excellent reviews... so it should be good.

Ulagalla:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6683958565_c1b06984ca_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7163/6683956841_cbd4c1831f_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7016/6683957197_45faf28729_b.jpg

Shakeel

July 7th, 2012, 05:25 PM

Any new updates for this thread...

saraprobe

July 8th, 2012, 07:36 AM

A five-acre extent of land has been allocated to operate a mixed utility complex including a luxury hotel in Colombo Fort under the Strategic Development Project initiated by the Government.The project will be operated by the WelcomHotels Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd. under an agreement entered into by the Board of Investment in May this year.

The total investment on the project is US$ 140 million (about Rs 18 .6 billion). It has been identified as a project of national interest that will bring economic and social benefit and change the landscape of the country.The project company has initially deposited into the account of the Deputy Secretary to the Treasury (Urban Development Fund) an upfront Lease Premium of US$ 73. 5 million (around Rs. 9.8 billion).
The Government has decided to give several tax concessions to the project company including an exemption from income tax for ten years.

The project company will also be exempt from the payment of withholding tax on several matters including interest on foreign loans taken for capital expenditure, technical fees to consultants; management fees up to 3% on gross revenue and royalty fees up to 1.5% on gross revenue.
An exemption will also be given to the Value Added Tax on the importation of project-related goods and the local
purchases of project related goods and services during the implementation period.
The VAT exemption will be applicable not only for direct suppliers to the company/project but also for supplies made by a sub-contractor to a contractor as approved by the project.

The payment and charge of Port and Aviation Levy (PAL) will also be fully exempted on all items imported for implementing the project, (whether directly imported by the project company or sourced through contractors, during the project implementation period.

ST (http://www.sundaytimes.lk/120708/news/sweeping-tax-concessions-for-massive-project-in-fort-5559.html)

saraprobe

July 8th, 2012, 07:37 AM

http://www.sundaytimes.lk/120708/uploads/building-150x150.jpg
East West Properties PLC, owned by businessman Nahil Wijesuriya, has signed a hotel management agreement with Marriott International hotel chain to manage the company’s Rs 3 billion hotel in Weligama, which will eventually go public, officials said.� Mr. Wijesuriya, Chairman East West Properties PLC told the Business Times that Weligama Hotel Properties Ltd., a fully owned subsidiary of East West Properties PLC, began construction of its first resort hotel, Marriot Weligama Resort and Spa in Weligama Bay in March this year and that it will open under the brand category of Marriott Hotels and Resorts in March 2014.

This contract was signed about two weeks ago by Vijitha Wijesuriya, Managing Director East West Properties PLC and Anika Wijesuriya, Director East West Properties PLC for Weligama Hotel Properties Ltd and Kiran Andicot, Vice President Hotel Development India and Subcontinent Marriott International, Inc. He said Weligama Hotel Properties Ltd will go public in due course. “This would be the country’s tallest resort hotel to date with 11 floors being managed by one of the most globally renowned brands,” he added, noting that it’s the tallest building outside Colombo. Mr. Wijesuriya said that choosing Weligama, located 143 kilometers from Colombo to construct this resort hotel, was because it is a popular tourist destination renowned for its sandy stretch of beaches.

He said that the room rate of this 200-room hotel would be around US$ 133. He said that Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) are a potential area they’re targeting for the resort. “We have a 5000 square feet ballroom and we plan to have India as a feeder market in terms of MICE,” he added.

Mr. Wijesuriya said that originally this hotel was slated to be under Marriott Hotels’ ‘Courtyard’ brand, which is placed at slightly lower echelon in their brands, but it ended up in Marriott Hotels and Resorts, which is a higher brand category as they were aiming for ‘higher standards’ with the hotel project.

“The Ritz-Carlton and the Marriott Hotels & Resorts are their highest brands and the rest – Renaissance Hotels & Resorts, EDITION Hotels, Autograph Collection, Courtyard, AC Hotels by Marriott Residence Inn, etc., comes thereafter,” he explained, adding that as they kept on pushing for higher standards, the project faced a brand creep which is a situation where one (generally smaller) brand graduates to a higher brand in the same family.

“For example the ordinary room size wasn’t right so we went for a bigger size,” he explained, adding that ultimately the standards specified for Marriott’s Courtyard brand were surpassed and they managed to touch Marriott Hotels and Resorts brand, which i Marriott International’s signature and most widely distributed brand.

“Earlier Marriott had a franchise with the Galadari Hotel where they lent their name which entails yearly site inspections,” Mr. Wijesuriya explained, noting that what they signed is a management contract where Marriott International will manage the property according to Marriott standards. He added that this project is ahead of its schedule and within the budget. He also said that a team from Marriott will train their staff periodically. He noted that Sri Lanka is becoming too costly as a destination. “The minimum room rates in Colombo guarantee that we’ll be expensive,” he noted, highlighting that it’s important to create a destination and that Sri Lanka needs to be conscious of the regional pricing. “One of the reasons we sold Intercontinental was because of the minimum room charges,” he said.

The company is planning to construct more world-class hotels and resorts in Colombo, Kandy, Hambantota, and Trincomalee as well as in the cultural triangle in the near future. Marriott International currently operates over 3,700 hotels in over 73 countries and territories around the globe.

ST (http://www.sundaytimes.lk/120708/business-times/east-west-ropes-in-marriott-for-weligama-resort-5074.html)

Amal

July 8th, 2012, 12:44 PM

jimpappa

July 8th, 2012, 06:36 PM

saraprobe

July 8th, 2012, 06:56 PM

Is this the Transworks towers??

July 8, 2012 (LBO) - A mixed property project including a hotel in Sri Lanka's capital Colombo by India's ITC has been given sweeping tax breaks under the island's strategic investment law, a government notice said.

Welcome Hotels Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, a newly incorporated ITC unit in Sri Lanka has already paid 73.5 million US dollars for a 99 lease of a 5 acre block state land near Colombo's main beachfront.
The firm is expected to invest 140 million US dollars over 60 months in a mixed development, a state gazette notification said.

The firm has been given a 10 year tax holiday starting from the first year of profits or three years after operations, and 6 percent of half the rate of tax for hotels (whichever is lower) for the next 15 years.

Up to 20 expatriate staff will be exempted from Pay As You Earn tax for five years .

Interest on foreign loans taken for capital expenses, technical fees to consultants management fees up to 3 percent of revenues, royalty and marketing fees up to 1.5 percent of revenue will be exempt from withholding tax.

Incentive management fees up to 10 percent of gross profit will also be exempted withholding tax. Charges for bookings made by ITC's central reservation system or 5-6 dollars per reservation will be also be exempt.

Imported and locally purchased project related goods and services, whether by the project company or contractors will be exempt from value added tax, port and airport development levy and customs duty.
India's ITC tobacco, consumer goods and leisure group operates through a luxury ITC Hotel brand, 5-star Welcome Hotel brand, Fortune mid-market range and Welcome Heritage brands.

It also has a franchise to the Starwood hotels brand

mrpanini

July 8th, 2012, 11:42 PM

not sure if this is the location....

http://www.uda.lk/images/projects/transworks2.jpg

http://www.uda.lk/images/projects/transworks3.jpg

http://www.uda.lk/projects_transworks.html

Shakeel

July 11th, 2012, 05:33 AM

After over two decades, the untouched, charming beaches of Passikudah, in the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, are slowly being rediscovered for their scenic golden sands and calm waters, rich in biodiversity. The bay of Passikudah comprises of a flat, soft sandy bed extending approximately 100 meters into the sea with a shallow fringing coral reef on the outer bay. Within the bay lie scattered clusters of coral that connect to similar reef systems further south, towards Kalkudah. The serene waters, a fusion of Bondi-blue, turquoise and aqua hemmed by sandy shores, conceive a scenic portrait of soothing stillness.

Set on the backdrop of these magnificent surroundings rests a charming 10 acre coastal resort named Amethyst. True to its name the resort exudes an atmosphere of stillness, balance and inner peace. It lies unobtrusively over a vast area of beach front property lined with lush green mangroves and foliage. One of the nicest things about Amethyst Resort is its vast open spaces that allow you to soak in the natural beauty of its landscape. Its structures and designs are uncluttered and simple, right from entering the reception you are treated to glistening waters of a quiet stream, a particularly pleasing and unique addition to the property, bordered with clusters of trees and mangroves. Across the little foot bridge, lies a magnificently blue pool and beyond, on the horizon, clear blue skies over a wondrous still ocean.
The rooms of the resort are nestled between the stream and ocean, offering picturesque views from all sides. They are spacious chalets that house two units each with separate entrances and verandas for each room. Despite the understated design of the chalets, the rooms themselves are fully equipped with luxury amenities, including AC, iPod dock, LCD flat screen TV, cable TV, mini-bar, electronic safe, coffee/tea making facilities and hot water. The bathrooms are nice and spacious, a refreshing change from the norm…literally. For the first phase of its operation, the resort has a total of 40 rooms. The subsequent phase includes 60 more standard rooms, which will be built further inland on higher floors to capture the panoramic views of the resort’s idyllic setting.
The Barrel – a trendy Mediterranean style pub is the main hub of activity at Resort. The décor has a rustic charm, with barrel style furniture, brick walls and wooden flooring. It serves a wide range of alcohol with delectable snacks and bites. The Barrel is well equipped for some great evening’s entertainment. It has a vast selection of karaoke and hi tech equipment that provide great vibes for a night of partying. But even more charming is the sunset deck outside the pub. It sits on the bank of the stream and is simply a delight in the evenings. The cool breeze wafts across the stream carrying a subtle spray from the fountain across the bridge, a welcome change from the high temperatures of the day. The deck is made of large wooden rafters in keeping with the rustic theme of the pub. At night, the lights from the fountain and distant fibre optic lighting of the pool create quiet the captivating sight and provide a delightful ambience for repose.
The Pool Bar operates from 7a.m. to 7p.m. and serves a nice array of seafood light bites and snacks. The swimming pool too is quite spectacular. It’s a great fun-for-the-whole-family location with the adjoining Jacuzzi and kiddies’ pool too.
The Taprobane Restaurant serves a wide range of delectable dishes with added seafood specialties that the region is famous for. The seafood is succulent and fresh and a good variety is available year-round.
For the adventurous traveller Passikudah as a region provides many interesting activities in and around the area. The reef system is considered one of the best in the East and much of it remains largely unexplored. It consists of large inverted coral domes and very healthy coral life can be clearly seen.
For more steadfast divers Batticaloa offers some of the best deep sea diving experiences in Sri Lanka including the remnants HMS Hermes (95) the world’s first ship to be designed and built as an aircraft carrier. In World War II, after the raid on Colombo on 5 April by the Japanese, Hermes was attacked it on 9 April around nine nautical miles (17 km) off Batticaloa. Also off the shores of Batticaloa is the Boiler wreck, ideal for less experienced but keen deep sea divers. The Marrakkala Gala, a beautiful surfacing rock formation is covered in hard corals, soft coral and sponges of all shapes, sizes and colours. It’s a great underwater landscape with spectacular balance of colour in corals and marine life. There are several islands within the Batticaloa Lagoon such as Puliayantheevu, Buffaloa Island, and Bone Island. Many bridges have been built across the lagoon connecting the landmasses and the islands. The biggest bridge of all is Lady Manning Bridge located at Kallady.
Also in the vicinity are the key towns of Trincomalee, Polonnaruwa, Minneriya, Habarana, Giritale and Dambulla. They too offer opportunities for many an interesting excursion including archaeological excursions in Polonnaruwa, Whale watching in Trincomalee, the Minneriya National Park, and the Sigiriya Rock Fortress etc.
Travelling to Passikudah takes approximately six hours by road. It is 292 km from Colombo and the roads have now been reconstructed and are in a very good condition for travel. One can also travel on the intercity train daily on first class and second class which is also a rather comfortable journey of approximately six hours.
Since the end of the war in 2009, the East is gearing up for development and growth as the Tourist Development Authority has earmarked 156 acres of land for development converting Passikudah into a Tourist Zone. It is expected that that there will be approximately 1000 star class rooms in Passikudah.
Amethyst Resort’s rustic charm is complemented by the unique combination of three distinctive natural elements rolled into one. The clear blue waters of the stunning ocean framing golden sands, the lush, green mangroves providing cool shade, the delightful rippling of the gentle stream flowing by. Only Amethyst Resort has this beautiful blend of scenery to offer…it truly is the gem of the east coast.

Shakeel

July 11th, 2012, 05:34 AM

not sure if this is the location....

http://www.uda.lk/images/projects/transworks2.jpg

http://www.uda.lk/images/projects/transworks3.jpg

http://www.uda.lk/projects_transworks.html

What is planned on that lot?

mrpanini

July 11th, 2012, 05:56 AM

What is planned on that lot?

The development saraprobe reported on?

mrpanini

July 11th, 2012, 06:16 AM

After over two decades, the untouched, charming beaches of Passikudah, in the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, are slowly being rediscovered for their scenic golden sands and calm waters, rich in biodiversity.....

Thanks for posting about these hotel openings Shakeel.

When you post, would you post photos of the new hotel in your post also please?

That way it's a complete post with both the news about the new hotel and photos of the hotel all in one post, and people don't have to go looking all over the web for the photos of the hotel. Thanks!

Opened in March 2012 I believe
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/s720x720/428676_251846201567250_819375854_n.jpg

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/s720x720/65448_251463294938874_1481961994_n.jpg

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/s720x720/403362_242883962463474_1513128507_n.jpg

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/s720x720/431760_242883989130138_730843653_n.jpg

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/s720x720/423360_242884009130136_337857171_n.jpg

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/s720x720/562618_302436676508202_1172905608_n.jpg

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/s720x720/404624_231951550223382_53264778_n.jpg

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/s720x720/547234_302436226508247_2061308494_n.jpg

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/s720x720/554310_276293472455856_291223934_n.jpg

http://www.facebook.com/AmethystResort

Amal

July 11th, 2012, 12:17 PM

Shakeel

July 11th, 2012, 12:53 PM

Thanks Amal for the adv but the reason behind posting the news break is for others to contribute and show some interest. Thus posting of photos will be a supplementary.

Mrpanini talks about Welcome Hotels initiative but unsure whether its in the Chatham area location. A lot of proposals but nothing concrete getting off the ground. We need to be realistic.

Look at the Weligama Resort by Marriot. Its awesome with project details. We need similar of other hotels being planned or under construction to create an avid interest.

Amal

July 11th, 2012, 12:57 PM

Amal

July 11th, 2012, 12:59 PM

Marriott International Announces Its First Hotel In Sri Lanka - The Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa

HONG KONG, China, July 10, 2012 Marriott International has signed an agreement with Weligama Hotel Properties Ltd., a fully owned subsidiary of East West Properties PLC, to open a hotel in Sri Lanka, the Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa 2014 – this will be Marriott's first property on the Indian Ocean island.

The 200-room, 11-storey Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa, will be operated under Marriott's flagship Marriott Hotels & Resorts brand.

"Marriott is delighted to be extending its portfolio and opening a world-class hotel in Sri Lanka," commented Simon Cooper, president and managing director Marriott, Asia Pacific. "Sri Lanka is a destination that has great potential and opportunity and we hope to capitalise on that and establish a strong presence in the country. We are confident that the reputation of Marriott Hotels and Resorts and the power of Marriott Rewards, our loyalty programme, will create great interest from both local and international travellers and be successful in promoting the beautiful area of Weligama Bay, as well as the country itself as this is our first hotel here."

Commenting on the project Mr. Nahil Wijesuriya, Chairman, East West Properties PLC said: "We are among the first companies in Sri Lanka to sign up with an international branded hotel company and to open as early as 2014. The resort is being built according to Marriott International's five star brand standards, with a beach frontage of 115 meters on the Galle-Matara road in the South-East of the country. The construction is being carried out in-house by East West Engineering Services (Pvt) Ltd. so we have direct control of every aspect of the construction of the resort and are confident that it will be of the highest standards and quality."

http://www.execdigital.com/press_releases/marriott-international-announces-its-first-hotel-in-sri-lanka---the-weligama-bay-marriott-resort-spa

"Scheduled to open in 2014, the 200-room, 11-storey resort will be located in Weligama, a popular southern destination famous for its beaches and stilt fishermen.

Resort facilities will include 640m2 of flexible event space, three restaurants, one swimming pool with a pool bar, and a spa and fitness centre."

http://ttgasia.com/article.php?article_id=4019

http://cache.marriott.com/Images/TNG/marriott_logo_gray.png

http://news.marriott.com/2012/07/marriott-international-announces-its-first-hotel-in-sri-lanka-the-weligama-bay-marriott-resort-spa.html

Don't know whether these are the actual designs but they are from: http://marriottresortweligamabay.blogspot.com

Exterior Concept V2.1
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sCo0wRL5GGo/T5A0YZiUpZI/AAAAAAAAJrA/AVwqp7DrFT8/s1600/road+perspective+finish+01-001.jpg

View from beach
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VwPriNrv2l8/T5A0fnX_m1I/AAAAAAAAJrY/0-irmJhQm0c/s1600/beach+perspective_finish_04-004.jpg

Initial concepts for lobby space
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yqLVA-530Ak/T-vkspN2nYI/AAAAAAAAPdA/G2Zw1OwJ4cY/s1600/Lobby+test+render_01.tiff

Concept Rooms

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--ws-ulIML4E/T5A0SLtgU2I/AAAAAAAAJqw/L5IJaWhs9BA/s1600/2012-03-01+Typical+guest+bathroom+whole.jpg

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VY_oZZGDeKc/T5A0TslnhvI/AAAAAAAAJq4/MiocdVW7LW4/s1600/2012-03-01+Typical+guest+bathroom+-+view+from+tub.jpg

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6428pcagQao/T5A0iTf5OaI/AAAAAAAAJro/tYGc6vwCCtE/s1600/perspective_bedroom.jpg

Amal

July 11th, 2012, 01:22 PM

The Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa

As of 20/06/2012:

kBMaPCGGhD0

FOLX-oKQLaI

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fimFisZnlGE/T-fhI2s9YmI/AAAAAAAANY0/RgBhF0fKjRk/s1600/DSC03518.JPG

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4GAjViPlPJc/T-fj22wsw3I/AAAAAAAANZ8/1dwdYi_yrOo/s1600/DSC03525.JPG

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ORg0Rl_7cA/T-fipul5CyI/AAAAAAAANZg/9E5AaSRNRKE/s1600/DSC03521.JPG

Source: http://marriottresortweligamabay.blogspot.com

mrpanini

July 11th, 2012, 06:13 PM

Whoever stays in those villas in the adjoining property are going to be hearing construction sounds all day long for the next two years.

mrpanini

July 11th, 2012, 06:16 PM

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QyBuVN8IU8E/TricnmUxS2I/AAAAAAAAHdI/pEHCZMuxgOo/s1600/005.JPG

Shakeel

July 11th, 2012, 08:00 PM

Umm... I didn't advise anyone.... a case of mistaken identity :)

Regret..yes mistaken identity..mrpanini should be..

Shakeel

October 4th, 2012, 03:10 PM

Anything new on this thread....

mrpanini

October 8th, 2012, 02:58 AM

October 2012 - JKH Rs 3 billion Cinnamon Bey in Beruwela opens

All these new hotels are starting to look the same - variations of Bawa

http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/304417_386931724712431_1653538819_n.jpg

http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/75742_386591214746482_324260057_n.jpg

http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/397187_386591118079825_710430571_n.jpg

http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/430008_386591088079828_450822658_n.jpg

http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc6/10262_386591564746447_665835775_n.jpg

Shakeel

October 9th, 2012, 02:05 AM

Yes you are truly right. Most of these projects are designed by students/associates of Bawa. They do not create or inspire anything new of their own with futuristic designs.

raji j

October 12th, 2012, 08:53 AM

Uga Bay, Pasikudah to open end October

http://www.dailynews.lk/2012/10/12/z_bus350.jpg

Uga Bay, Pasikudah the Rs 850 million luxury boutique hotel is scheduled to be opened by President Mahinda Rajapaksa at the end of October, said Uga Escapes Managing Director Priyanjith Weerasooria at a press briefing in Colombo.

Weerasooria said that guests could experience the culture of Eastern Sri Lanka by visiting ancient temples, historical forts, traditional villages and the incredibly warm hospitality of the local people.

“This is an exciting time for Uga Escapes, as we make a firm commitment to invest in our marketing strategy to raise awareness of our hotels and develop a strong brand presence within the up market hotel industry in Sri Lanka and internationally.

He said that in comparison to luxury boutiques in the region, Uga Escapes offers very competitive rates for the luxury they offer.” The land has been acquired on a 33 year lease from the government, he said.

Weerasooria said that they intend increasing room capacity to 200 and were looking at new ventures down South and the hills. He said Uga Escapes had already committed an investment of over Rs 2.5 billion and plans to invest another Rs one billion in the future.

Uga Bay in Pasikudah, mainly focuses East European countries, particularly CIS countries, as this population loves the sunny beaches, he said. He expressed hope that the unique luxury boutique concept would be a huge triumph among local guests and Uga Bay Pasikudah would be a hit among the leisure loving locals.

The accommodation at Uga Bay has been unique in many ways. Spread across a 9 acre picturesque landscape along the beachfront and set just meters away from the pristine beaches of the stunning Pasikudah Bay, it comprises 46 spacious 500 square foot rooms, a Bay Suite and a Beach Chalet. The architecture was contemporary tropical, fused with a Mediterranean theme set amidst swaying palms. Each cluster features two Beach View Studios upstairs and two studios at ground level with direct access to the beach.

All studios offer an enchanting view of the azure ocean and is complete with plush king sized beds, high-end entertainment systems and private decks. All units come with modern amenities, including a 42’’ LCD TV, Cable channels, IDD phones, complimentary Wi-Fi, tea/coffee making facilities, mini bar, in-room safe, individually controlled air conditioning and more.

The chic Bay Suite, stands alone, boasting of over 1,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, exuding first-class elegance, offering a private haven, tastefully designed with luxury and comfort in mind. The living space overlooks the pool with outdoor decks on either side, accessible from both bedrooms with king sized twin beds.

The Beach House, is a two storied chalet by the sea, with your own private plunge pool and terrace with unobstructed views of the bay.

Shakeel

October 15th, 2012, 02:51 PM

Any pictures of Colombo City new hotel projects. I hear a lot of new properties being added.

raji j

October 26th, 2012, 08:37 AM

Rs 750 mn Grand Udawalawe Resort opens on Sat.

The Management of The Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort invested approximately Rs.750 million for their maiden hotel in Udawalawe which will be opened on Saturday. The investor s comprising seven directors would also invest a further Rs. 300 million to build the region's first Avurvedha hotel in Udawalawe.

Deputy Chairman, Anura Withanage said that they would be investing Rs.300 million while the balance would be financed through borrowings from the Bank of Ceylon. “With tourism booming we hope to break even in four years,” he said. Due to adverse weather conditions the completing of the project was delayed by a few months and they missed the opportunity to market the hotel during the recently concluded T20 cricket world cup he said.
http://www.dailynews.lk/2012/10/26/z_pi-Rs-750-mn.jpg

He said that they would also build a second hotel in the same premises promoting the concept of Ayurvedha and said that they had positioned the hotel to be a four star property. The “Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort” would have 53 rooms (inclusive of 04 suites) built on a 7 acre land, and would be the first four star resort hotel in Sabaragamuwa Province.

All rooms would have Internet and IDD facilities, satellite TV facilities with international/ local channels.

In addition there would be a large banquet hall with seating capacity of 450, conference hall with 200 seating capacity, specially designed swimming pool and a restaurant which can accommodate 250.

The hotel will be ceremonially declared open by President Mahinda Rajapaksa on October 27, 2012 at 10 a.m.

The Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort has agreed with the farms of Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka to purchase all their fruit and vegetable requirements and from farmers in the surrounding villages. The recruitment policy of the hotel also gives priority to the youth of the area. The resort is owned by Rosen Lanka Pvt Ltd

Amal

October 26th, 2012, 02:13 PM

Uga Bay

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http://www.facebook.com/UgaBay

AbstractLife_12

December 5th, 2012, 02:25 AM

The former Ceylon Continental Hotel has re-opened its doors unveiling its new identity, ‘The Kingsbury’.

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The hotel underwent a $ 18 million refurbishment backed by Sri Lanka’s most diversified conglomerate, the Hayleys Group.
The newly refurbished five-star property will consist of classical architectural features and breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean from all its 229 rooms.
Hayleys Group Chairman Mohan Pandithage stated, “‘The Kingsbury’, as its very name suggests, really is an ode to the golden age of grace and elegance.”
‘The Kingsbury’ is equipped to raise the bar for luxury hospitality in Sri Lanka, with guest rooms being furnished with signature Bvlgari toiletries and Italian branded Frette linen. Restaurants are equipped with world-renowned Schonhuber Franchi & Sambonet cutlery, Spiegelau and Schott Zwiesel glassware, Villeroy & Boch crockery; with a trained team of staff to deliver an unmatched level of personalised service.

The five-star property will be led by its Chief Executive Officer Otto Stohl, a seasoned hotel industry professional with an exceptional track record that spans over 25 years at leading hotel chains such as The Ritz Carlton, Renaissance, Marriott International and Hilton.
The hotel’s main ballrooms ‘The Balmoral’ and ‘The Victorian’, a gourmet station delicatessen offering grab and go snacks, specialty cheese and confectionaries, and ‘Kings’, a typical Irish pub, will be operational from early December.
The hotel also plans to open up three new restaurants (multi cuisine, Chinese and seafood) in early January, providing more choice to its guests.

Shakeel

December 7th, 2012, 02:46 AM

Thats a new welcome. Hope others prop up their properties as well to make them more appealing. Taj Samudra is the worst of all. Any news of other openings in Colombo.

Amal

December 16th, 2012, 12:26 PM

saraprobe

December 18th, 2012, 04:44 AM

President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday ceremoniously declared open The Kingsbury, Colombo’s most luxurious hotel.
Situated at the end of the Galle Face Green and the Indian Ocean as a spectacular backdrop to it, its breathtaking beauty is just one of the exceptional features one can experience. The Kingsbury is also a true testimony to the bygone era of grace and charm in all aspects – architecture, interior décor, personalised service, and overall ambience of the hotel.

http://www.ft.lk/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Outside-lead-12.jpg
Hayleys, the parent group of The Kingsbury is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and largest conglomerates, with a history spanning over 134 years. Engaged in 12 strategically diversified sectors of enterprise, Hayleys is one of the most respected groups in Sri Lanka with a strong presence in the leisure industry representing several world-renowned airlines as General Sales Agent, a vibrant destination marketing company, Hayleys Tours, and the resort hotel arm, Amaya Resorts and Spas.
“With the first phase of the refurbishment complete, guests can now experience the regal splendour of the ballrooms – The Balmoral, The Victorian, and The Winchester. Three elegantly adorned restaurants, namely, The Ocean (world cuisine), Yue Chuan (Chinese), and Fisherman’s Wharf (seafood), will delight the senses with an array of international cuisine. For those who wish to unwind and have a relaxed evening, the Kingsbury offers its lobby bar, Kings. Rooms and other facilities when completed will redefine the hospitality offering in Colombo,” said Mohan Pandithage, Chairman of Hayleys Plc and Hotel Services (Ceylon) Plc.
Pandithage further stated: “The Kingsbury during the period of refurbishment invested extensively in training all categories of staff in preparation to deliver a level of hospitality and service that will delight the discerning traveller. Equally, the hotel has invested in bringing in international expertise, recruiting experienced professionals for key positions. The hotel is strongly positioned to cater to and benefit from the fast growing business and tourism markets. The elegant Balmoral ballroom is possibly the most romantic setting for any couple who wish to immortalise their nuptials, or for those celebrating a special occasion. The launch of the new hotel is strategically important for the Hayleys Group’s vision of catering to a wider section of the tourist market to drive growth and harness the synergies of related services.”
Heading this property as CEO is Otto Stohl, an exceptional hotelier who articulated his vision for The Kingsbury as “to offer a personalised, respectful experience with individual attention and deep concern for every guest’s singular preferences. At the Kingsbury every guest is made to feel like royalty and we promise to create timeless memories that will keep our guests returning to us time and time again.”

www.ft.lk

saraprobe

December 18th, 2012, 04:44 AM

http://thekingsbury.lk/assets/images///photos-and-videos/img/slides/img5.jpg

oscar_81

December 18th, 2012, 05:13 PM

http://thekingsbury.lk/assets/images///photos-and-videos/img/slides/img5.jpg
Shoot :wtf:

lordvader

January 13th, 2013, 04:03 AM

http://thekingsbury.lk/assets/images///photos-and-videos/img/slides/img5.jpg

Looks like those photos have been removed and new ones uploaded on their site. I think those pics were from the old hotel!

Popthepuff

January 13th, 2013, 08:18 AM

What is planned on that lot?

Krrish Square Towers, which will include a hotel. They are currently deciding between Ritz Carlton or Four Seasons to run the place.

saraprobe

January 17th, 2013, 05:02 PM

http://www.adaderana.lk/news_images/12040121612.jpg
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Popthepuff

January 17th, 2013, 06:03 PM

Whoa, sudden. It was controlled, though.

jimpappa

January 17th, 2013, 07:12 PM

What are they "constructing" on that site? I haven't seen any project planned for chaitya road.

Praetorian

January 17th, 2013, 08:30 PM

What are they "constructing" on that site? I haven't seen any project planned for chaitya road.

Might be related to the New South Harbour??

mrpanini

January 17th, 2013, 10:26 PM

Looks like it's the storage area for the Kingsbury construction.

Even though the Kingsbury was 'opened' recently, it's actually still under heavy construction.

http://oi49.tinypic.com/2gvo3u8.jpg

Popthepuff

January 18th, 2013, 12:26 PM

Thats a huge storage area, if it is.

saraprobe

January 18th, 2013, 07:10 PM

Thats a huge storage area, if it is.

Nop they are adding more rooms and restaurants and all these place are still U/C

Popthepuff

January 19th, 2013, 08:18 AM

Nop they are adding more rooms and restaurants and all these place are still U/C

Wait, so if that whole area belongs to the Kingsbury, it means it could more than double in size! :nuts:

saraprobe

January 19th, 2013, 10:48 AM

Wait, so if that whole area belongs to the Kingsbury, it means it could more than double in size! :nuts:

I think they are going to add more room from current 180, it would be around 229.

Popthepuff

January 19th, 2013, 07:45 PM

I think they are going to add more room from current 180, it would be around 229.

Then thats a lot of extra space. Garden or something maybe?

alabonda1

March 3rd, 2013, 09:17 AM

Popthepuff

March 3rd, 2013, 09:45 AM

Might be related to the New South Harbour??

Actually, thinking about it, it may be the new parking space for WTC, BOC, etc since Krrish will take up the old one and it will be unusable during construction.

saraprobe

March 3rd, 2013, 04:15 PM

Jetwing Hotels, among Sri Lanka top three hotel chains after John Keells and Aitken Spence, is coming up with a first: A no-frills hotel in Negombo on the lines of the budget air travel concept.
Jetwing Hotels Chairman Hiran Cooray said the hotel named ‘Hotel J’ will open next month on the Negombo beach next to the former Browns Hotel property and is what is called a ‘a select service hotel’.
The customer will get a room with a 5-star bed and shower/toilet, Internet and a safe and clean environment at a price ranging from US$35 to $70 per night. Guests pay for everything else that they require including food.
“You pay for everything else separately,” Mr. Cooray told the Business Times, adding that the concept popular in the West is fast catching up in locations like Phuket and Bali.
“We thought we’ll bring this (concept) to Sri Lanka too,” he added. The hotel will cater to both local and foreign travellers. Meanwhile the Jetwing group is pushing ahead with mega expansion plans and new hotels like Jetwing Yala (80 rooms + 10 villas), Jetwing Colombo (70 room + 28 apartments), Jetwing Yarl – Jaffna (70 rooms), Jetwing Reef -Uppuveli (60 rooms + 28 apartments) and Jetwing Lake – Dambulla (98 rooms) coming in the next 12 to 24 months.

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:cheers::cheers::cheers::cheers::cheers:
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Amal

March 3rd, 2013, 05:20 PM

The steak meal is ~ Aus $26 , US $27 which might be acceptable in Australia or the US, but for Sri Lanka? You can get a comparable meal for way cheaper in Thailand/Malaysia and even Singapore.

surangah

March 4th, 2013, 08:25 PM

Prime beef is expensive but that price is way too much. They will have to price it as much to maintain that posh attitude. :)

saraprobe

March 5th, 2013, 04:12 AM

The steak meal is ~ Aus $26 , US $27 which might be acceptable in Australia or the US, but for Sri Lanka? You can get a comparable meal for way cheaper in Thailand/Malaysia and even Singapore.

I have traveled across south east asia and majority of them sell Aussie steaks and they all around $30 and thatz is for me bloody expensive since I can get a goo streak for $5 and complimentary at work:cheers::lol:

alabonda1

March 13th, 2013, 06:52 PM

Mar 13, Colombo: Thailand's leading operator of hotels Centara Hotels & Resorts will open its resort and spa in the Eastern Province beach town Pasikuda next month.
The four-star Centara Passikudah Resort & Spa Sri Lanka set on the beautiful Passikudah Bay, on Sri Lanka�s north-eastern coast will open for tourists on 1 April 2013.
The Resort, located 35 kilometers north of Batticaloa, comprises 126 spacious rooms and suites with each featuring a private balcony or terrace. The shallow waters of the bay are ideal for windsurfing and kayaking.
There is an all-day dining restaurant, lounge bar, Spa Cenvaree, fitness center, and the Bay Ballroom which has a maximum capacity of 150 persons.
Centara's second project in Sri Lanka, Centara Ceysands Resort & Spa, located on the Paradise Island peninsula at Bentota will open in October 2013.
The 166-unit Centara Ceysands Resort & Spa, flanked by a river on one side and the beach on the other, is accessible only by ferry.
Centara Hotels & Resorts with 40 deluxe and first-class properties covers all the major tourist destinations in Thailand and has 18 resorts in Maldives, Vietnam, Bali Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Mauritius.

raji j

March 14th, 2013, 07:39 PM

Jetwing Hotels opens first no-frills hotel next month – TSL salutes Hiran Cooray
Posted on 02 March 2013 by TSL

Jetwing Hotels, among Sri Lanka top three hotel chains after John Keells and Aitken Spence, is coming up with a first: A no-frills hotel in Negombo on the lines of the budget air travel concept. Jetwing Hotels Chairman Hiran Cooray said the hotel named ‘Hotel J’ will open next month on the Negombo beach next to the former Browns Hotel property and is what is called a ‘a select service hotel’.
The customer will get a room with a 5-star bed and shower/toilet, Internet and a safe and clean environment at a price ranging from US$35 to $70 per night. Guests pay for everything else that they require including food.
“You pay for everything else separately,” Mr. Cooray told the Business Times, adding that the concept popular in the West is fast catching up in locations like Phuket and Bali.
“We thought we’ll bring this (concept) to Sri Lanka too,” he added.
The hotel will cater to both local and foreign travellers. Meanwhile the Jetwing group is pushing ahead with mega expansion plans and new hotels like Jetwing Yala (80 rooms + 10 villas), Jetwing Colombo (70 room + 28 apartments), Jetwing Yarl – Jaffna (70 rooms), Jetwing Reef -Uppuveli (60 rooms + 28 apartments) and Jetwing Lake – Dambulla (98 rooms) coming in the next 12 to 24 months.

Lasantha

March 15th, 2013, 08:21 PM

For $5 I am not suprised that goo streak is all you can get.... :)

I have traveled across south east asia and majority of them sell Aussie steaks and they all around $30 and thatz is for me bloody expensive since I can get a goo streak for $5 and complimentary at work:cheers::lol:

saraprobe

March 16th, 2013, 06:49 AM

For $5 I am not suprised that goo streak is all you can get.... :)

Oppps typo, no s**t I can!

alabonda1

March 27th, 2013, 04:09 AM

President and Chief Executive Officer of Marriott International Arne Sorenson will be in Sri Lanka late next week to explore further prospects in the leisure industry, which has been enjoying a rebound following the end of the war.

Marriott has already set its footprint in Sri Lanka when it tied up with business tycoon Nahil Wijesuriya last year to manage his upcoming 200-room luxury resort and spa in Weligama, which will also be the tallest resort hotel in the country.
East West Properties Plc Chairman Nahil Wijesuriya told the Daily FT that Sorenson will make a special trip to Sri Lanka from 5 to 7 April to inspect the progress of Weligama Marriott Resort & Spa as well as fly to the east coast, hill capital and Cultural Triangle to see firsthand the scenic beauty and the potential for new resorts.
Wijesuriya said East West and Marriott have an understanding to expand the portfolio of resorts and hotels in the country over the next five years, covering the areas of the Cultural Triangle, Kandy, Trincomalee, Colombo and Hambantota.
The Marriott boss will be accompanied by teams from Indian operations during the visit. Marriott International is a world-renowned operator and franchiser of a broad portfolio of hotels and resorts which include Bulgari Hotels and Resorts and The Ritz Carlton. Marriott International currently operates over 3,700 hotels in over 73 countries and territories around the globe. Marriott Hotels and Resorts are Marriott International’s signature and most widely distributed brand and it is also known for the world’s largest loyalty program, Marriott Rewards.
The 200-room, 11-storey Marriott Weligama Resort and Spa will be operated under Marriott’s flagship Marriott Hotels & Resorts brand. Wijesuriya said so far construction has progressed to the sixth storey and will be completed for its opening in end 2014.
The resort is being built according to Marriott International’s five star brand standards, with a beach frontage of 115 metres on the Galle-Matara road in the south-east of the country.
“The construction is being carried out in-house by East West Engineering Services Ltd., so we have direct control of every aspect of the construction of the resort and are confident that it will be of the highest standards and quality,” he added.
In making its original announcement last year on the first Sri Lanka resort, Marriott said it was delighted to be extending its portfolio and opening a world-class hotel in Sri Lanka.
“Sri Lanka is a destination that has great potential and opportunity and we hope to capitalise on that and establish a strong presence in the country. We are confident that the reputation of Marriott Hotels and Resorts and the power of Marriott Rewards, our loyalty program, will create great interest from both local and international travellers and be successful in promoting the beautiful area of Weligama Bay, as well as the country itself as this is our first hotel here,” Marriott’s Asia Pacific President and Managing Director Simon Cooper said.
With some 640sq metres of flexible ballroom space, the hotel should prove extremely popular in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibition (MICE) market, while those travelling to Weligama Marriott Resort & Spa on holiday will be able to take full advantage of the wide leisure offering at the hotel, which includes three restaurants, a pool with a pool bar, spa, fitness centre and a beautiful stretch of beach.
Weligama, located 144km from Colombo, is a popular tourist destination renowned for its sandy beaches. Famous for its stilt-fishermen perched on a cross bar of a single pole planted into the seabed, this attraction has been captured in every corner of the world depicting Sri Lanka as a preferred destination of choice for travellers from all over the world.

MarbleBeach

March 27th, 2013, 11:45 AM

http://www.colombopage.com/archive_13A/Mar27_1364371675CH.php

raji j

April 21st, 2013, 05:25 AM

LOLC Group targets 1,000 hotel rooms by 2015

By Duruthu Edirimuni Chandrasekera

The LOLC Group, along with its subsidiary Browns Group plans to build 1,000 hotel rooms by 2015 with some six hotels on the cards, officials said.

LOLC Leisure, the LOLC’s leisure arm has finalised the designs for the first stage of its brand new Rs 6.5 billion resort hotel in a 20-acre beach stretch in the south coast and has mapped to start construction in three months. “This is stage one of the 500 room hotel and we will be building 370 rooms initially,” an official told the Business Times.

He said LOLC is looking for an international hotel chain operator to manage it, and the Hilton chain is in the running to manage this new hotel. The 20-acre beach stretch area had two of the Confifi hotels Riverina, Club Palm Garden LOLC bought from the Furkhan family nearly two years ago and a hotel previously owned by Jetwing, Tropical Villas. “The three hotels have been closed for business for several months since May 2011 to complete building the new hotel,” the official said.

Early last year the company acquired a 99.9% stake of Dickwella Resort for Rs 1,014 million. The official said that LOLC hasn’t finalised plans for this property which has 76 rooms as yet.

Browns Group, which was bought by LOLC last year, is also contributing to LOLC’s room inventory. “Browns subsidiary Samudra Beach Resorts (Pvt) Ltd has obtained the requisite approvals to commence construction of a star class resort hotel in Kosgoda, which will be opened in November this year,” the official said. He said that Samudra Beach Resorts increased room capacity to 172 rooms at a cost of Rs. 1.7 billion, adding that negotiations are underway to have the property managed by an international hotel chain and plans are to start operations in winter 2014. “Most likely Starwood, under its Sheraton brand or InterContinental Hotels Group will manage this hotel,” he said, noting that it will be a five star hotel.

Through its subsidiary, Free Lanka Capital, Browns Investments (BI) has plans to build a 70 room hotel in Kandy at a cost of Rs 500 million. BI recently purchased 51 per cent stake in the 67-room Green Paradise Resort located in Dambulla for Rs. 500 million.
“We already possess some 755 rooms now with all the hotels we own and we want to invest in a 250 room city hotel in the medium term,” the official said, adding that either an acquisition or building is on the cards. This will be a 3-4 star property in Colombo, he further said.

http://www.sundaytimes.lk/130421/business-times/lolc-group-targets-1000-hotel-rooms-by-2015-41037.html

interesting to see these new developments,

1)hilton hotel chain to manage 6.5 billion resort hotel in down south
2)Starwood, under its Sheraton brand or InterContinental Hotels Group to manage Samudra Beach Resort.
3)250 room city hotel in colombo.

AbstractLife_12

April 27th, 2013, 09:12 AM

http://www.thekingsbury.lk/assets/images///dining/sky-lounge/img/slides/skylonge.jpg

Sitting atop the royal splendour of The Kingsbury with its dignified splendour, is a unique jewel in its crown; Sky Lounge, the epicenter of Colombo’s nightlife. Sky Lounge redefines the parameters of entertainment as it illuminates eminence from the center of Colombo.

Its alluring style and captivating ambiance will provide an ideal haven for socializing with specially curated live music and DJs. Undeniably one of the greatest venues in Colombo, arousing all your senses as the Sky Lounge provides an assortment for your taste buds as you indulge in delicacies, a delight to your sensation as the cool Indian ocean breeze lavishes you, eclectic music to your ears as you drown in the pulses of international and local aptitude, while entrancing your vision towards the magnificent view of the Indian ocean, the infinity- edge pool and the entire city of Colombo; making it the perfect combination for an ideal night out.

With regard to entertainment, the Sky Lounge is second to none. Introducing international lounge music, Sky Lounge offers its visitors sheer dynamisms of international lounge music and chilled-out house music by international and local artists every Monday through Saturday, while jazzing the ambiance every Sunday with a prevue of bluesy jazz music.

And then there’s the spread of indulgences; from premium beverages to signature molecular cocktails which awaits your arrival up at the Sky Lounge.

The Sky Lounge is the hybrid of clubs and bars; giving you the vibe of a club and the congeniality of a bar, while creating a paradigm shift in corporate entertainment. A signature element of The Kingsbury, the Sky Lounge provides its patrons with the ideal cosmopolitan vibe that social influencers’ desire. Social elite merged with Mohan Pandithage; Chairman of Hayleys, Johann Wijesinghe; Director of Leisure and Aviation, Otto Stohl; CEO of The Kingsbury, and the kings-folk, as the launch of Sky Lounge took place on the 18th of April, 2013.

The Sky Lounge; the epicenter of Colombo’s nightlife is open every evening from 6 pm to 1 am, on the roof top of The Kingsbury.

source (http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=77651)

alabonda1

April 30th, 2013, 06:40 PM

For the first time an entrepreneur is building a luxury boutique hotel in Andarawewa, Anuradhapura on concrete pillars. The hotel is to be named as Forest Rock Garden Hotel. The mentor behind the project, Baladurage Chandrasiri said that the main idea of building the hotel on a higher elevation (20 metres high) was because he wanted to save trees and cause minimum damage to the environment.
“We only had to cut two small trees while building the hotel and have already planted over 300 trees,” he emphasized. He said that what they want to create is a natural ancient environment where animals could walk beneath the hotel.
The hotel built similar to an ancient city, would extend on a 50 acre land taken on long term lease from the Mahaweli Authority. “We are hoping to invest Rs. 650 million for the first stage of the project,” he said. The investment would comprise of 40% bank borrowings and the balance would be funded by Chandrasiri and Italian investors.
The construction of the hotel is already in progress with 80% completed and the hotel is scheduled to be opened for the 2013 winter season.
He said that under the first phase 20 rooms would be completed.
Another unique feature of the hotel is that it comprises seven ultra luxury rooms with a individual plunge pool, mini gym, kitchen and a large sitting out area.
These rooms would also have modern security systems which includes cameras to monitor the entrance.
The main market they hope to attract is the high end clientele from Europe and the local up market clientele mainly nature lovers. “We hope to have a staff of 80 and 90% of them would be recruited from the area in a bid to give some thing back to the local community.
One of the other features of this hotel is that it is being built with no civil engineer or architect. “This is my dream and I plan and build according to it,” he said.
Chandrasiri also own and operate the three star Palm Garden Village hotel which is just 8 km away from the new hotel.
Palm garden opened in 1996 and consists of 50 rooms.

http://www.dailynews.lk/2013/04/30/z_pi-First2.jpg

d n

EshE

April 30th, 2013, 08:25 PM

alabonda1

May 18th, 2013, 11:08 AM

Jetwing Hotels, Sri Lanka’s largest family owned hospitality provider, unveils Hotel J – select service accommodation for the first time in Sri Lanka.

Visiting Sri Lanka on a shoestring budget or planning to travel around the country economically? Most of the time the modern traveler - be they young and independent or older and adventurous - is limited by income, and cash thereby becomes a key determinant when deciding on destinations and accommodation. Hence the reason Jetwing Hotels came up with their latest brainchild of Hotel J (www.hotelj.lk), a no-frills accommodation brand offering select service accommodation made to cater for the budget traveler.

No frills hotels are focused on ensuring that clients receive simple products with universally appealing services at extremely competitive rates. The first of its concept, Hotel J will have 35 rooms and 1 suite, all of which boast a fantastic view of the Indian Ocean, as the property is located in the Western coastal town of Negombo. Facilities that are on offer include air conditioning, hot and cold water, IDD and Wi-Fi, as well as a restaurant, a bar and a pool. The Chairman of Jetwing Hotels, Hiran Cooray, refers to Hotel J a ‘select service brand’ and where the customer "gets a room with a star class bed, bathroom, access to the internet and a safe and clean environment at prices ranging from US $ 35 to $70 per night". Everything else that is on offer from food to more personalized services, have to be purchased separately by guests.

Hotel J will herald Jetwing’s entrance into the select service accommodation market. No frills have been described as the wave of the future and Jetwing is proud to be on par with this global trend. A new niche has been carved out in the hotel industry to cater to what is now referred to as the ‘no frills chic’ audience. Hotels such as Yotel, easyHotel, citizen M and the Pod Hotel are all part of this low cost travel and accommodation revolution abroad. As Mr. Cooray said in the Business Times "the concept popular in the West is fast catching up in locations like Phuket and Bali". He went on to state that "Hotel J, Negombo is the first in a planned series, and we hope to continue this concept in other key destinations".

The importance of this new concept cannot be underestimated as it has the power to change consumer expectations. Thrifty guests and travelers love the concept of a chic experience without having to pay the additional costs. Likewise, the older and more extravagant guests also enjoy no-frills hotels and tend to give up on their more lavish and traditional services in exchange for more reasonably priced options.

Negombo is an ideal location for a ‘no frills hotel" as it is in close proximity to the Bandaranaike International Airport which is just 7km away. It will therefore be easily accessible to travelers who have just landed in Sri Lanka or are on their way out of the country after an extended holiday and are in search of some idyllic days on the beach. Negombo is a fishing town and with its coconut trees, golden sands and beautiful beaches, it holds all the allure of a traditional fishing center cum holiday destination.

For food connoisseurs the options are endless. A range of restaurants in Negombo can provide you with many different types of food. From Swiss and German food to Italian pizza there exists a wide variety of culinary delights from the West. Likewise the traditional Sri Lankan dishes of rice and curry as well as the spicy seafood plates continue to add an authentic flavour to your stay in this coastal town.

Negombo is also a great place to check out some of Sri Lanka’s colonial past. Amidst the attractions are some centuries old Catholic churches, a Dutch Canal and of course the famous Dutch Fort in Negombo. The ruins of the old Dutch Fort are located near the lagoon and provide visitors with an interesting location to explore. The fort has a well preserved gate at its entrance which carries the date 1678. Not too far away from the Fort is the famous Negombo fish market which is may be a smelly and noisy place to some, but extremely popular as it provides you with the opportunity to come into contact with local fishing and market culture.

The low cost revolution in travel and accommodation is here to stay. However with Jetwing Hotels you can be certain that it will be an aesthetic pleasure and experience, backed by the company’s well deserved reputation as a hospitality provider par excellence.

the island 17/05/13