Bally's Magazine ISSUE 14

B AL L Y'S The Depths of Colombo’s Night Life

F O O D

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N I G H T L I F E

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M U S I C

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PA R T I E S

SO SRI LANKA THE LAND OF UNEXPLORED WONDERS 10

Sita Abducted?

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L I F E S T Y L E

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F A S H I O N

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L U X U R Y

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C A S I N O

xk;=h ihVe vkRe fyaxe rFkk nwljs 108 fyax dgk¡&dgk¡ fLFkr gSa 18

THREE CARD POKER AT BALLY’S

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Discover Colombo’s No. 1 Address Located in heart of the city’s entertainment district, Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo offers the finest collection of guestrooms with stunning views of the Indian Ocean and cityscape.

Innovative restaurants and bars, Shangri-La’s signature Chi, The Spa, a Health Club, and poolside overlooking the sea, make this the social and dining hotspot of Colombo.

1 Galle Face, Colombo 2, Sri Lanka Tel (94) 11 788 8288 E-mail slcb@shangri-la.com www.shangri-la.com

CONTENTS AUSTRALIAN TOUR OPERATORS CHAIRMAN MEETS THE TOURISM MINISTER

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SRI LANKA TOURISM PROMOTION BUREAU HOSTS NETWORKING SESSION FOR TRAVEL BLOGGERS

SO SRI LANKA THE LAND OF UNEXPLORED WONDERS 16

INTERNATIONAL CULINARY YOUTUBERS EXPLORE COLOMBO CUISINE

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CROCODILE SRI LANKA UPGRADES MEN’S WARDROBES WITH THE LAUNCH OF NEW COLLECTION, ISLANDWIDE ONLINE SHOPPING AND LOYALTY CLUB

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SO SRI LANKA PRO 2019 42

SITA ABDUCTED? xk;=h ihVe

vkRe fyaxe rFkk nwljs 108 fyax dgk¡&dgk¡ fLFkr gSa

THREE CARD POKER AT BALLY’S HAMOOS TRAVEL’S WITH BALLY’S ENTERTAINMENT LAUNCH SPECIAL PACKAGE TO ENTICE TOURISTS

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FORTE-STYLE ITALIAN: AQUA FORTE SERVES SOPHISTICATED ITALIAN CUISINE WITHIN GALLE FORT

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NEWS

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Design, Production and Advertising

Global Media Holdings (Pvt) Limited 395/7, School Avenue, Pannipitiya, Thalawathugoda, Sri Lanka.

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Email: info@ballysmagazine.com Web: www.ballysmagazine.com

Opinions expressed in Bally's are those of writers, and may not necessarily be the view of Global Media Holdings (Pvt) Limited or its employees. Readership is advised to seek advice from specialists before acting on information published in the magazine.

CASINO SRI LANKA

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THE DEPTHS OF COLOMBO'S NIGHT LIFE

THE DEPTHS OF COLOMBO'S NIGHT LIFE

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So Sri Lanka The land of unexplored wonders

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So Sri Lanka The land of unexplored wonders

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olden Sun kissed beaches, picturesque locations, lush greenery, an island compact with all the gifts of nature and an ancient culture and heritage going back to 2500 years, amazing and an exotic wildlife to experience your adventurous side, spicy cuisine to liven up your taste buds, that’s what Sri Lanka is all about. One can have all these experiences within one day, making it a 365-day destination, providing the best of experiences all year round.

With its easy accessibility to reach one destination from another and the vivid diversity of locations makes Sri Lanka one of the most sought after and popular destinations for a perfect traveler. With its romantic locations and story book sceneries, Sri Lanka is sought after as a preferred destination for holding wedding ceremonies, and having four natural harbors gives it a sophisticated touch as a cruise tourism destination.

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THE DEPTHS OF COLOMBO'S NIGHT LIFE

As an adventure tourism destination, Sri Lanka has gained its popularity via offering tourists an experience worth cherishing by hiking, trekking and other adventure activities in areas like Horton Plains and Riverston,water rafting in Kitulgala, and Dolphin watching in Mirissa and Kalpitiya.

Sri Lanka is also known as the ‘’Land of Smiles’’ with its hospitable and friendly people who are keen to help when needed. For a perfect beach holiday Sri Lanka has a golden coastline which spreads continuously along the Southern and Northern coasts, where you can relax in the palm fringed beaches while sipping a king coconut, and do some surfing at Arugmbay . Up in the hill country one can enjoy the soft, cool, breeze drifting through your hotel room window in Nuwaraeliya, whilst you ‘re enjoying a hot cup of freshly brewed, world renowned Ceylon tea. St. Clare’s water fall and Bambarakanda are some of the beauties which you find in this picturesque hill capital which is also referred to as ‘’Little England’’.

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As an adventure tourism destination, Sri Lanka has gained its popularity via offering tourists an experience worth cherishing by hiking, trekking and other adventure activities in areas like Horton Plains and Riverston,water rafting in Kitulgala, and Dolphin watching in Mirissa and Kalpitiya. Home to 8 UNESCO world Heritage sites, Sri Lanka is an incredible destination to explore, which has an exclusive tourism potential as a compact destination, which so many opportunities in store, exclusively for the enthusiastic traveler. B

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SITA ABDUCTED?

BY CHANAKA DE SILVA

The story of this so called abduction goes on to speak of the the Eagle/Vulture Jayatu who tried to defend Sita with his life. Annoyed by his resistance Rama kills it. Here it is called by Sita for assistance. Before attacking it calls out to Ravana and tells that Rama has nothing wrong to him. Does this mean that Jayatu does not know of what both Rama and Lakshaman did to Ravana's sister? It says that women should be protected, as your Mother and Sister ; but did it not what Rama had done to Ravana's sister?

Once Jayatu dies Sita weeps. Because it was she who caused its' death. But it is no match for Ravana. Though old, the Jayatu gives a good account of itself in the battle. When Ravana see the dying bird fighting even after being mortally wounded, it is almost in mercy that he cuts off its' wings so that it will be put out of its' suffering.

Sita after seeing Jayatu dying leaves Ravana and weeps beside it. Then Ravana takes her and places her on his thigh and flies to Lanka. Here the question is why did Ravana let Sita to go to Jayatu's side? She could have runaway. Why was Sita taken to the sky sitting on Ravana's thigh? This not the position that a hostage is kept. A resisting abductee would be first tied. But Sita wasn't. The record is clear.

Sita leaves a trail of jewels to be found by Rama seems like an after thought when you see that she has all but willingly go with Ravana. Or did she do this to avert suspicion of her true deed? www.ballysmagazine.com

THE DEPTHS OF COLOMBO'S NIGHT LIFE

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On arrival of the Rama with Sita he instructs Rakshasis who are to guard her that Sita should be provided with Silks ,Food or Jewels, whatever she asks. Again is this the way a prisoner is treated?

After this Ravana dispatches eight spies/assassins to kill Rama . it is said that he considered it his revenge to bring Sita. If it was simple revenge would it not have been easier to kill Sita? Would Ravana have gone into all this trouble to take revenge for the disfigurement done to his sister, of whose husband Ravana had killed? It seems it is a little too much.

Then the Ramayana goes on to describe the effort Ravana takes to win Sita. But why all this song and dance if she was a prisoner? He could easily have done what he wanted? In the description of his wooing he says that Rama is an exile and the wealth and power he commands, quite rightly so. Was that one of the reasons that Sita decided to come. Ravana also puts his flying machine or Vimana at her disposal. Now this is a level of technical superiority that Rama does not have.

The time of twelve months that according to the Ramayana that Ravana gives Sita to make up her mind seems more of a request to which that he had acceded to rather than a time given to decide. Because if the choice was his it would not have been so long.

On Rama's and Lakshmana's return and the discovery of Sita missing bring unhappiness to Rama. Here curiously he feared had happened. Does this means that he always suspected that Sita might leave him? He says' “What I dreaded has happened , Sita is gone�. He does not say someone has abducted Sita. He always knew that she was likely to leave him.

He even finds fault with brother for leaving her side. This is the brother that joined him in exile to help him. Is this not a little more than ungrateful? Because it is Sita herself who sends Lakshamana away from guarding her. She even threatens to kill her self if Lakshamana does not leave. She even accuses him of being Rama's enemy.

The curious fact is that Rama does not suspect that Sita has been abducted, but almost accepts that she has left him.

He is angry that even though he suspected this and kept Lakshamana to guard her she was clever enough to send him away and disappear. B www.ballysmagazine.com

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vkRe fyaxe rFkk nwljs 108 fyax dgk¡&dgk¡ fLFkr gSa ys[kd % bufnd d#.kknkl ekxZ % uqokjk ,fy;k 'kgj ls ysMh eSdye ekxZ] uacj 82 ] Jh eq#xslu egf"kZ prqjJ LFkkiuk 1974 M‚DVj xk;=h flíj eq#xslq Lokeh } kjkA Jh yadk ds uqokjk ,fy;k ftys esa fLFkr xk;=h fgUnw eafnj Jh yadk ds loZ çFke xk;=h nso ekrk dk fgUnw eafnj gSA ,sfrgkfld rÙoksa ds vuqlkj M‚DVj xk;=h flíj eq#xslq Lokeh us xk;=h ihVe dks /kkfeZd jgL;ksn~?kkVu ds dkj.k gh pqu fy;k Fkk vkSj egf"kZ f'kocy ;ksxh egkjkt dk leFkZu Hkh çkIr gqvk FkkA ekuk tkrk gS fd tc jko.k dk csVk es?kukn Hkxoku f'ko dh mikluk djrs vkSj fudqacy ;K djrs le; f'ko] czã vkSj fo".kq dh f=ewrhZ ;gk¡ çdV gqbZ egf"kZ xk;=h flíj eq#xslq Lokeh lkr n'kdksa ls t~;knk uqokjk ,fy;k ftys esa jgdj vius vuq;kf;;ksa dh /kkfeZd I;kl 'kkar djrs jgs vkSj Hkw[ks yksxksa dks Hkkstu Hkh djkrs jgsA Jh xk;=h flíj eq#xslq Lokeh dk vfHkçk; Fkk fd 108 çk.kfyaxksa lfgr egkf'koky; dk fuekZ.k fd;k tk,A Jh xk;=h ekrk dh ewrhZ Hkh bl eafnj esa vofLFkr gS vkSj ç—fr ds ik¡p rÙo ;kuh Hkweh] ty] rst] ok;q rFkk vkdk'k dks n'kkZusokys ik¡p eq[k bl ewrhZ esa cus gq, gSaA dbZ n'kd igys egf"kZ f'kocy ;ksxh egkjktk] egf"kZ Jh eq#xslq dks vknj çdV djus ds fy, vius iwtuh; f'kofyax dks Jh yadk ysdj i/kkjs FksA og f'kofyax Hkkjr ds ueZnk unh rV ij mUgsa çkIr gqvk FkkA og

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Sri Gayathree Siththar Murugesu Maha Irishi

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THE DEPTHS OF COLOMBO'S NIGHT LIFE

Gayathree Hindu Temple

Sanjeewni herb which was brought from India by Hanuman

Lingam

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Sri Gayathree Siththar Murugesu Maha Irishi

Cocont with an unusual growth

108 other lingams

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xk;=h ihVe

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Athma Lingam

God Kataragama

uqokjk ,fy;k ds xk;=h ihVe esa Hkäksa ds fy, vfiZr gSA rHkh ls Jh yadk ds bl eafnj dks Jh yadkrsLojkj eafnj uke ls tkus yxkA ;g egkf'kofyaxe cgqr vk'p;Ztud gS A og vkdkj ls c<+ jgk gS vkSj bldk c<+uk vusd Jíkyqvksa us Hkh viuh vka[kksa ls ns[k pqds gSaA uqokjk ,fy;k dk xk;=h ihVe blds 108 fyaxksa ds dkj.k gh fof'k"V gksrk gSA 1970 ds vklikl ueZnk unh ds ikl vksEdkjs'oj eafnj ds fudV Hkkjrh; _f"k f'kocy ;ksxh egkjkt dks vkRekfyaxe dks çkIr gqvkA blds lkFk teZuh ds muds ,d vuq;k;h dks Hkh teZuh ls dqN f'kofyax çkIr gq, vkSj os Hkh uqokjk ,fy;k esa yk;s x;sA

Rama, Ravana, Sita and Hanuman

fyaxksa ds vykok uqokjk ,fy;k ds xk;=h ihVe esa Jíkyqvksa ds n'kZu ;ksX; cgqr vf/kd la[;kvksa esa ewfrZ;k¡ rFkk nwljs oLrq,¡ Hkh miyC/k gSaA xk;=h egf"kZ laxzgky; esa jke xk;=h ¼jke & lhrk &y{e.k & vatus;j½] —".k xk;=h ¼jk/kk vkSj —".k½] ra= egk dkyh ewrhZ vfn Hkh miyC/k gSaA Jh xk;=h ihVe 82] ysMh eSdye ekxZ] uqokjk ,fy;k Jh yadk

Shakthivel Chandaramohan (Managing Trustee – Gayathree Hindu Temple) www.ballysmagazine.com

Sri Shivabala Yogiswarar

nwjHkk"k% 94 77 3249554

94 52 2222609 osc% srigayathripeedam-org bZesy% srigayathripeetam@gmail-com

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Three Card Poker

at Ballyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Three Card Poker has in time, gained popularity as basically, a very simple game to play and one that is very easy to learn. Having first originated in England during the 90â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s by Derek Webb, the game was invented based on the 3-card Brag which gradually became common as a casino game. It used to carry the name Casino Brag.

This game is also popular for giving the player the chance to play against the dealer, without having to bet against each other player. This game is also sometimes called Tri Poker, and the name Three Card Poker eventually gained momentum in America, after it was introduced there. The current pattern of playing Three Card Poker is done so with a 52-card pack. While seated at a special table, the cards are dealt and bets placed. There are two bet types available.

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THE DEPTHS OF COLOMBO'S NIGHT LIFE

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The game’s objective is to use 9only three cards and come up with the best poker hand possible. The player first places an ante wager and/or a pair plus wager and bet that they will have a hand of at least a pair or better. Then, three cards are dealt facing down on the table. The player will then determine whether to place a wager depending on his hand in order to pit against the dealer.

When strategizing in this game, it calls for the player to ‘play’ all hands that are greater than Queen, Six and Four and fold all other worse hands. If any of the players fold, the hand would be over and the dealer collects the player's ante wager and pair plus wager. If the player places a play wager, then the cards will be turned over to govern if the player has a better hand than the dealer. If the dealer has a hand of Jack-high or worse, the play wager is then returned to the player.

If the dealer has a hand of Queen that is either high or better, both the play wager and the ante are rewarded at 1 to 1 if the player has a better hand. If the dealer’s hand is higher, both the ante and play bets are collected. The pair plus bet is determined entirely as autonomous to what the dealer has.

Another older game, which also went as Three Card Poker has been denoted in numerous 20th century American card game books. This used to be a Draw Poker game played with hands of three- cards rather than five, where players bet against each other in the usual style of poker.

Bally’s, having been synonymous with the amount of interesting and enjoyable card games, no doubt has this game in store. Come and experience what Bally’s has to offer. B

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Hamoos Travel’s with Bally’s Entertainment launch special package to entice tourists TEXT BY | CHANAKA DE SILVA

PICS BY | DEVENDA DE SILVA

Sales at Duty free exceeds LKR 5 Mn

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otels Hamoos Travels together with Bally's Entertainment recently launched a special weekend package to entice tourists to Colombo. According to the plan, a flight specially chartered for the occasion was used to ferry down around two hundred and fifty tourists from Hyderabad India to Colombo.

These tourists benefiting from an unprecedented promotion will be one of the primary to put tourist industry back after atrocious terrorist attacks that Sri Lanka witnessed on Easter Sunday in Colombo and a few suburbs.

The passengers of the charter flight from India were treated to special on board offers and promotions. Speaking on the promotional excursion Bally's International Marketing, Vice President, Johny Perera said that it was their first such tourism promotion. “We hope to continue this, and judging by the response it is a runaway success. We will promote our packages in different cities in India every month from now on. I am sure those too will be successful as this or even more”.

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Hamoos Travel’s with Bally’s Entertainment launch special package to entice tourists

Commenting further, Perera said, “Today the tourism industry has got a much needed shot in the arm . Beside the two hundred and fifty passengers on the charter flight another one thousand are arriving on other flights as well to enjoy this special packages.

These tourists will be booked into all the Colombo Hotels for the duration of the stay”.

Johny Perera, Vice President Bally's International Marketing

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Mahesh Wanigasekara, General Manager, Hamoos Travels

Arriving with the inaugural, Hamoos Travel General Manager, Mahesh Wanigasekara said, “this tour was promoted in the Indian market for only a month. The response has been very good and encouraging.

We will be promoting this in all the big cities in India. We will then offer these promotional packages to other countries in the region , like China, Singapore and Malaysia”.

THE DEPTHS OF COLOMBO'S NIGHT LIFE

â&#x20AC;&#x153;This time we have a celebrity on board, giving them all kinds of free offers including spa facilities. So we want to showcase Sri Lanka as well. And then when it comes to entertainment : of course Bally's is on top. And they're coming to experience games. They will be here for three nights and four days and return back on the same flight . They're all from Hyderabad, just one state. However, in line with Indian independence, we are having separate function here.

So from other states and from other countries also, there are over 1,000 tourists coming in and they are coming on separate flights. So I have the team ready to pick everybody up. 90% of the guests will be staying at Kingsbury and then at the other hotels in Colombo,â&#x20AC;? he added.

Accordingly, amounting to over INRs. 2 million ( approximately this is similar to Lkr. 5 million) were generated via duty free sales by the passengers of this charter flight alone.

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With many encouraging responses received, Hotels Hamoos Travels together with Bally's Entertainment hope to organise similar events monthly basis and believe that it could be a major contribution towards the tourism industry as well.

With some support from the government organisers believe that it would not be a difficult task to double the heads and increase the revenue generating via the tourism industry. B

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FORTE-STYLE ITALIAN: AQUA FORTE SERVES SOPHISTICATED ITALIAN CUISINE WITHIN GALLE FORT Paolo Gavioli, Ian Fernández and Roberto Vicario first came to Sri Lanka a decade ago and watched the country transform as they returned over the years, spellbound by the island and its many diverse charms. Of these charms the Galle Fort captured their imagination the most - wandering through its cobbled streets they were strongly reminded of small Italian villages or ‘borghi’ back home, where classic architecture sets the stage for incredible Italian cuisine. Inspired, the trio opened their first Sri Lankan venture in May - AQUA Forte is serving up authentic Italian food paired with the finest of wines from Galle Fort’s residential Leyn Baan Street.

In July the restaurant was honoured to serve the Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and his wife Professor Maithree Wickremesinghe. The reception was also attended by Mr and Mrs Mohan Tissanayagam, the Deputy www.ballysmagazine.com

THE DEPTHS OF COLOMBO'S NIGHT LIFE

Ambassador of Italy Allegra Baistrocchi, Hon. Ramesh Pathirana, Deepal Wickremasinghe, Raveen Wickremasinghe, Gratiaen Prize 2018 winner Arun Welandawe Prematilleke, Niranka Perera, Mr. and Mrs. Nilanga De Alwis and Mr. and Mrs. Suresh Perera. They were hosted by Paolo, Ian and Roberto within the restaurant’s spacious dining area with seating capacity for 60, including a separate dining room on the upper floor that can accommodate 25 seats. The VVIP guests dined on a personalized four-course menu created

by Chef Roberto Vicario, the restaurant’s Executive Chef and Managing Director. Chef Roberto brings a background in science to his passion for cooking, experimenting with traditional recipes and creating modern dishes prepared using classic Italian cooking techniques with respect for the freshest of produce.

A reading of the menu at AQUA Forte reminds guests that everything is handmade on site and to order. Even the bread at AQUA Forte is baked daily, including classics like crispy olive studded focaccia. The pasta is rolled fresh -also daily- for classic tagliatelle and deliciously unctuous ravioli or tortellini.

All ingredients are sourced fresh when available locally or flown in from Italy.

Guests may begin their dining experience with refined antipasti selections such as Carpaccio di Zucchine (zucchini carpaccio with truffle oil, pistachio crumble and ricotta cheese mousse) or Baccala Mantecato alla Veneziana (Venetian style cod with extra virgin olive oil on grilled polenta). The classic notes of Italian cuisine ring true in the pasta (‘Primi’) section, paired with the

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finest quality premium ingredients - Ravioli alla Norma (ravioli stuffed with eggplants, ricotta and pecorino cheese with fresh cherry tomato sauce) and Tagliatelle al Ragu di Coniglio (tagliatelle with rabbit ragu), for example. Guests can eschew the traditional carbs in favour of main courses like Polpo alla Barese (octopus sous vide with smoked potato puree, parsley powder and dry black olives) or Porchetta e Peperoni (rolled pork belly with herbs served with roast bell pepper salad and crispy crackling). For ‘dolci’ (dessert) go classic - tiramisu, panna cotta, Trio di Cioccolato e ricotta, and a fun selection of gelatos and sorbets await.

Each dish could be paired with wine from AQUA Forte’s impressive wine cellar housing a curated collection of

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>

>

FORTE-STYLE ITALIAN: AQUA FORTE SERVES SOPHISTICATED ITALIAN CUISINE WITHIN GALLE FORT

Paolo Gavioli, Ian Fernández, Maithree Wickremesinghe, Ranil Wickremesinghe Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Roberto Vicario and Nasser Bouderka

Allegra Baistrocchi, Nilanga de Alwis, Paolo Gavioli, Mrs Tissanayagam, Ian Fernández, Mohan Tissanayagam, Roberto Vicario, Niranka Perera, Hon. Ramesh Pathirana, Rangana Chandrasena and Mr & Mrs Suresh Perera

exclusive labels from Italy’s diverse wine regions. Guests will be appreciative of the restaurant’s commitment to ensuring that they can pair each course or dish with the perfect wine- the large selection including the premium labels can be ordered by the glass or bottle. Non-alcoholic options include premium Italian waters, soft drinks, a selection of freshly pressed fruit juices, and Illy coffee.

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The restaurant’s ambience (designed

by Team Architrave led by Principal Architect Madhura Prematilleke) is perfect for intimate, sophisticated meals to match the Galle Fort’s own charm of timeless elegance. The dress code remains casual- so guests can take a long wander through the fort’s many pathways before making their way to the restaurant.

“Our guests are here to experience a real Italian dining experience and that means they should be relaxed and comfortable. We strongly believe in this philosophy when it comes to the food we serve as well. After all, Italian cuisine is so charming because it can be both sophisticated and hearty at once”, says Chef Roberto. Ian added: “We built this restaurant to blend effortlessly into the Galle Fort as if it has been here forever- and we think this sets the perfect stage for the real stars here; authentic Italian food and wine created and served in one of the most beautiful locations on earth”.

They also thanked their partners, saying “We’re very lucky to have had excellent support locally from our Attorney at Law and Public Notary Nilanga De Alwis, Suresh Perera of Sithagi Design and Engineering and Antyra Solutions, our integrated agency partners for brand design and digital marketing.”

The three friends are so charmed

by Sri Lanka that they’re investing further- a small luxury boutique villa called AQUA Villa with annex restaurant AQUA Pazza will open in Midigama later this year. They are convinced that Sri Lanka will bounce back stronger than ever from recent events; saying “Sri Lanka is so beautiful, we’ll always return and know others will too.” B

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AUSTRALIAN TOUR OPERATORS CHAIRMAN MEETS THE TOURISM MINISTER

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n order to revive the tourism industry, Minister of Tourism Development, Wildlife & Christian Religious Affairs, John Amaratunga, invited the heads of Tour Operator Associations worldwide to visit Sri Lanka after the 21/4 incident. As a result of this invitation, Mr. Dennis Bunnik, Chairman of the Council of Australian Tour Operators, (CATO) met the Hon. Minister of Tourism Development, Wildlife & Christian Religious Affairs, John Amaratunga and other SLTPB officialsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in Sri Lanka recently. He was also accompanied by Mr. Kevin Bishop, General Manager of Bunnik tours operation in Sri Lanka.

Bill Board Campaigns in Australia

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Hon. Minister meeting Mr. Dennis Bunnik, during his visit to Sri Lanka, with Hon. Minister of Tourism Development, Wildlife & Christian Religious Affairs, John Amaratunga, Mr. Kishu Gomes, Chairman, SLTPB, Ms. Charmarie Maelge , Managing Director SLTPB , Mr. Dushan Wickramasuriya , Director Marketing, Ms. Chami Lanka Gasnawage , Officer in charge of the Australian market , and Ms. Anne Amaratunga, Public Relations officer to the Hon. Minister

Australia has proven to be a very resilient market for Sri Lanka in 2018.

Tourist arrivals from Australia recorded a total of 110,928 and a growth rate of 37% during this period. In 2019, the expected target of tourist arrivals is seen as 149, 752, and this number does not account of ethnic visitors holding dual passports. Up to July 2019, 52,698 tourists arrived in Sri Lanka and in 2019 a growth of 36% from the Australian market is expected.

Australia has an outbound travel of 8.4 million and has a population of 23.77 million. Their main purpose of travel is Holidaying, visiting friends & relatives, Business and other purposes.

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, (SLTPB) had a large contingent of tour operator’s /travel agents visiting Sri Lanka in July this year. Seen in the picture is the delegation of Australian travel agents on their visit to Sri Lanka in July 2019.

SLTPB conducts promotions through participating in trade fairs, special consumer events, and conducting tour operator programmes and FAM visits. Subsequently between March –July this year, a bill board advertising campaign was carried out in Melbourne & Sydney, whereas a consumer event is scheduled to be held in Sydney from 23rd & 24th November 2019.

During his visit to Sri Lanka, Mr. Dennis Bunnik said that Sri Lanka is a fast selling tourist destination which has the potential to attract a large number of tourist arrivals due to its cultural and natural resources and various holiday opportunities. He has seen the market picking up rapidly with queries to visit Sri Lanka. He further said that none of his clients had cancelled any of their visits or postponed them. He has been a loyal supporter of the SLTPB for several years and believes that Sri Lanka has everything in store for every travel enthusiast. He believes that Sri Lanka can attract the Australian market as Sri Lanka can be promoted as a popular destination among Australians.

Hon. Minister of Tourism Development, Wildlife & Christian Religious Affairs John Amaratunga appreciated Mr. Bunnik’s visit to Sri Lanka and loyalty towards SLTPB with several key promotional activities to boost tourism in Sri Lanka. Mr. Bunnik expressed that one reason for Sri Lanka to be popular among Australians are its culture, natural attractions and the common interests of cricket. B www.ballysmagazine.com

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SRI LANKA TOURISM PROMOTION BUREAU HOSTS NETWORKING SESSION FOR TRAVEL BLOGGERS

Arrival of guests at the entrance

Welcome dance

Welcome speech by Mr. Kishu Gomes, Chairman, SLTPB

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ri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) hosted a networking event for a group of prominent social media influencers and travel bloggers, at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, in order to welcome them and also to felicitate those who made an outstanding contribution to promote the destination. The group, consisting of 22 travel bloggers representing key markets in Europe & USA, arrived in Sri Lanka on 6th August 2019, to explore the destination and convey a message to the global community that Sri Lanka is a safe to travel, and showcase its wide variety of holiday opportunities for travel enthusiasts.

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Travel bloggers posing for a photo with the So Sri Lanka background

Ms. Charmarie Maelge , Managing Director , SLTPB addressing the gathering

Janet Newenham receiving her award from Mr. S. Hettiarachchi , Secretary , Ministry of Tourism Development , Wildlife & Christian Religious Affairs

Janet Newenham , during her speech

The delegation will tour the country in 5 groups, which will cover the major attractions and also lesser known attractions of the North, East, South and Central parts of the country. The combined reach of these bloggers of all social media platforms is over 7 million, with a major follower base in the European continent.

Janet Newenham, a prominent travel blogger from Ireland who has an average reach of 150,000 on twitter, 50,000 on Instagram 30,000 on face book and 2000 on YouTube, runs the popular travel blogger site, ‘’Journalist on the run’’ and contributed largely in placing Sri Lanka on the global map as a top travel destination. In order to thank her for her massive support, she was given the award for outstanding contribution for Sri Lanka tourism at the event.

Speaking on receiving the award she said, ‘’I was very happy and felt so surprised because it was so unexpected. I felt emotional at the same time and this means so much to me. I have been visiting Sri Lanka for 3 years now and I’m going to continue visiting this amazing country. I think Sri Lanka is one of the loveliest countries in the world with whale watching, the elephants, and I love Sri Lankan cuisine too. Sri Lankans are the friendliest people in the world. I take this as an opportunity to thank you all ‘’. B

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INTERNATIONAL CULINARY YOUTUBERS EXPLORE COLOMBO CUISINE anadian YouTubers Luke Martin and Sabrina Davidson of Chopstick Travel are currently in Sri Lanka to promote tourism for the island, working directly with the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau. An exciting opportunity for the tourism sector of Sri Lanka, Chopstick Travel boasts over 500,000 globally diverse subscribers, over 92 million views on their channel, and has worked with media giants such as Netflix, TripAdvisor, and tourism boards around the world. Their goal is simple, to document authentic local cuisine and promote culinary travel around the world for their audience. Food is the cultural connection between all walks of life and is the conduit in which Luke and Sabrina educate their audience about the cultures around the world. They highlight authentic cooking techniques and unique cuisines with great passion, which can be seen in the effort that they put into creating their content. Having filmed cuisine in over 20 different countries, they have finally arrived in Sri Lanka to document the wonderful food culture of Sri Lanka. Luke and Sabrina understand the importance of visiting Sri Lanka at this moment and hope to do their part in turning the perception of travel in Sri Lanka around.

Enjoying a local crab dish

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Experiencing the village life – Luke Martin and Sabrina of Chopstick travel (youtube) and Mr. Chaminda Munasinghe , Assistant Director VJP, SLTPB with some villagers in Palwehera village , Dambulla

Luke and Sabrina have been invited to come to Sri Lanka as part of the successful Visiting Blogger Program run by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau. Invited because of their heavy viewership in Europe, North America, and Asia, Chopstick travel seeks to not only document the food and culture around the island, promoting culinary travel, but also to influence their audience’s view of Sri Lanka and its safety.

“We are already so impressed with Sri Lanka. Our goal is to help put this country back on track to becoming a top travel destination.

The people of this country deserve it and we strive to share Sri Lanka with the world! We’re very grateful to the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau for inviting us here.”Luke said shortly after arriving in Sri Lanka.

At the Independence Square www.ballysmagazine.com

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INTERNATIONALCULINARY YOUTUBERS EXPLORE COLOMBO CUISINE Having a culinary experience at the Pettah Bazzar

At the Peliyagoda fish market

Experiencing the local fruits

Tasting some ‘’Kola Kanda’’

Starting their Sri Lankan culinary journey from Colombo, the pair has already covered a wide range of cuisine in a short span of time, from bustling markets to local street foods to fine dining. “Colombo has something for everyone. From the street food to the leading specialty restaurants in Colombo, you will always be satisfied,” said Sabrina when asked about her experience so far. They are incredibly aware of the responsibilities that come with having a platform as large as theirs and are meticulous in their planning of what to showcase for their audience, in promoting Sri Lanka.

Colombo, however, is just the first stop of a long culinary itinerary around Sri Lanka. “We have a big plan to cover the cuisine across this beautiful island country. Colombo was just a preview. Next up is Jaffna! We can’t wait!”

Audiences will be able to see the first episode of their five-part Sri Lankan series at the end of August. Their focus on local cuisine will certainly entice and attract global attention. Their excitement to share these wonderful dishes is clear as they prepare to promote Sri Lanka to the world. Find them on YouTube and subscribe to their channel to keep an eye out for the episodes release and get excited to see what other Sri Lankan specialties they have in store! B www.ballysmagazine.com

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CROCODILE SRI LANKA UPGRADES MEN’S WARDROBES WITH THE LAUNCH OF NEW COLLECTION, ISLANDWIDE ONLINE SHOPPING AND LOYALTY CLUB

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he Sri Lankan gent need look no further for sartorial inspiration, for Crocodile Lanka launched their exciting new menswear capsule on Tuesday 27 August at a thrilling fashion show held at The Stables in Park Street Mews. The dapper new collection themed ‘UPGRADE’ was revealed to an exclusive guest list of Colombo’s social elite and local industry titans.

The event showcased a versatile, new-season update for menswear wardrobes, encouraging the contemporary style-conscious man to take control of his image and upgrade his look across the four primary lifestyle categories: professional, social, active and personal.

The Upgrade Professionally line is the expression of an inimitable take on the workwear template, one that defies the monotony of the nine to five. A series of well-tailored shirts presented in a subtle -yet distinctive- colour palette, walked the runway paired with an equally crisp collection of formal trousers, and checked all the boxes for the professional looking to dress for success.

The casual attire had its turn in the spotlight when Upgrade Actively took to the runway.

Trendy short-sleeved linen button-down shirts and second-skin crew-neck and V-neck T-shirts perfectly complemented the new line of tailored shorts and jogger pants, chic comfort visibly being at the forefront of this collection.

The Upgrade Socially line brought structured and sophisticated pieces to the ramp, with polo T-shirts, chinos, and relaxed style trousers being pieces that stood out in particular; all style elements for a great night out.

Most striking of the four however, was the Upgrade Personally line. Aimed at every man in the room, this collection with its engaging line-up of varied pieces epitomized authenticity, encouraging an almost personalized sense of style. Whether you want to lead the fashion pack, or just feel comfortable in your own skin, Crocodile had you covered either way.

Chamal Fonseka, General Manager of Crocodile Sri Lanka introduces its prestigious new loyalty club alongside partners - Fathhi Mohamed, Co-Founder & COO, Yoho Bed, Thushan Meemanage, CEO, Scope Cinemas and Dr. Punarjeeva Karunanayake, CEO, ANC Education

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THE DEPTHS OF COLOMBO'S NIGHT LIFE

While new styles were being revealed, latest additions to Crocodile’s diversified product range also took their place on the ramp. Leather goods, travel wear, timepieces, eyewear, and various other accessories were presented to complement every look.

“The launch of this highly anticipated new collection is a call for all men to upgrade their lifestyles by investing in the right wardrobe choices,” said Chamal Fonseka, General Manager of Crocodile Sri Lanka, speaking at the launch event. “All of the new Upgrade lines echo the dedication to craftsmanship, exceptional fabrics and fine tailoring that has been associated with the brand for the past 70 years."

In addition to the new wardrobe staples, another must-have was also announced; membership to Crocodile’s prestigious new loyalty club. Club Crocodile enables members to collect points with every purchase transaction, and gives access to special member-only discounts and offers. Accumulated points can then be redeemed at Crocodile stores and special offers await from partners such as Scope Cinemas, Avirate, and ANC. At the event, three of Crocodile’s most loyal customers were surprised with 5000 points in recognition of their regular patronage.

The new Upgrade collection will be available for purchase via the website, at the Crocodile flagship store and over 100 dealers across the island. B

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PRO 2019

The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau announced that surfing event has been extremely well received by professional surfers from around the world while many have expressed their keen interest to participate and witness the qualifying rounds in Sri Lanka.

The Bureau noted that while entries are still being received, nearly 122 surfers from 24 nations have entered the final list. This impressive line up includes participating countries such as Australia, Indonesia, France, Venezuela, Israel, USA, Portugal, New Zealand, Mexico, Spain, Great Britain, Brazil, South Africa, Costa Rica, Argentina, Japan, Ireland, Chile, Belgium, Peru, India, Maldives and Sri Lanka.

Mr. Steve Robertson, Regional Manager Asia & Global VNR Producer, World Surf League (WSL), remarked, ‘’ We are here to deliver positive stories about Sri Lanka to the world. This is all about a magnificent surfing event and a global promotion about Sri Lanka. All Sri Lankan media is encouraged to engage with World Surf League. We want to work with the domestic media as well. It’s been a great journey, and we are looking forward to the event. We want to bring out a superb event, where everyone is a winner, and we want to keep coming back here, and just to reiterate of how great Sri Lanka is as a destination’’.

“It will be so amazing to have the WSL come back to Sri Lanka,” said Sri Lankan Surfing Federation President Hiran Ukwatte.

“We can’t wait to witness a world-class event and watch the positive effect it will have on surf sports in our country and on surf tourism to the area. Arugam Bay is a world-class wave with some fantastic local surfers like D.A Lakshitha, Praneeth Sandaruwan, and Lesitha Prabath to name a few. these surfers are looking forward to the opportunity to compete with and surf with surfers from all around the world.” he expressed.

Many of these surfers are very well known within the world professional surfing ranks and many are serious contenders to represent their nations in next years 2020 Japan Olympic Games, where surfing makes its Olympic debut.

One such surfer is the fast emerging Rio Waida from Indonesia. The powerful youngster placed 3rd in the WSL World Junior Championships in 2018 and he is already identified as future star of the sport.

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Hon. Minister of Tourism Development, Wildlife & Christian Religious Affairs, John Amaratunga addressing the gathering

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Mr. Kishu Gomes, Chairman, SLTPB, addressing the gathering

The guest panel: Hon. Minister of Tourism Development, Wildlife & Christian Religious Affairs, John Amaratunga, Mr. Kishu Gomes, Chairman, SLTPB, Mr. Steve Robertson, Regional Manager Asia & Global VNR Producer World Surf League (WSL), Mr. P.T Weerasinghe , Chairman , Lanka Sportreizen, Mr. Hiran Ukwatte, President , Surfing Federation of Sri Lanka and Mr. Gayan Peiris, Manager , Corporate Events & Promotions , Sri Lankan Airlines

Mr. Steve Robertson, Regional manager Asia & Global producer, World Surf League speaking at the occasion

Front row from left: Ms. Charmarie Maelge , Managing Director , SLTPB, Mr. Prasad Daluwatte, Director Events, SLTPB, and Ms. Madubhani Perera, Director PR, SLTPB

‘’I am very excited to be coming to Sri Lanka for this great event ‘’ said Waida. ‘’I’ve heard great things about the waves in Sri Lanka and it is always fantastic for us to have the opportunity to compete in quality surf –I can’t wait! ‘’ The So Sri Lanka Pro 2019 will also play as a huge opportunity for some of the local surfers to take on the international professionals as wildcards in the event. This opportunity is something that has been made possible through the WSL and the Surfing Federation of Sri Lanka.

Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) Mr. Kishu Gomes remarked that the event will amplify Sri Lanka’s position as a major surfing and tourist destination. “Over 700 visitors are also expected to be present, in addition to the 122 surfers who would be in the country. The surfers and visitors are scheduled to spend at least 10 days in the surfing paradise of Arugam Bay.” The So Sri Lanka Pro 2019 Men’s QS3,000 will run from September 25-29, and the ground arrangements will be handled by Lanka Sportreizen. Head to www.worldsurfleague.com or the WSL App for more information. Click here for more information on Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau. B

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NEWS

Mahindra Finance and Ideal Finance form NBFI Joint Venture in Sri Lanka

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ahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Ltd. (Mahindra Finance),India’s leading NBFC (Non-Banking Finance Company),focused on the rural and semi-urban markets,has entered into a joint venture with Ideal Finance Ltd., a fully owned subsidiary of the leading Sri Lankan conglomerate, Ideal Group. Mahindra Finance will invest LKR 2 billion until March 2021 forup to 58.2% stake in Ideal Finance.

The joint venture will capitalize on Mahindra Finance’s 25-year expertise in the financial services domain and Ideal Finance’s domestic market knowledge to build a leading financial services business in Sri Lanka.

Ideal Finance Ltd., Chairman Nalin Welgama (fourth from left) exchanges agreement with Mahindra Finance Executive Director & Chief Financial Officer V. Ravi. Mahindra Finance Vice President - New Initiatives Mufaddal Choonia, Senior Vice President Marketing and Strategy R. Balaji, Ideal Group Deputy Chairman Aravinda De Silva and Ideal Finance Chief Executive Officer Duminda Weerasekera are also in the picture

Mahindra Finance, India’s leading NBFC focused on rural and semi-urban markets, has been looking at expanding its market overseas as part of its global growth strategy. Sri Lanka, with its cultural and geographical similarity to India and its vibrantfinancial services market, emerged as the first choice. With this joint venture Mahindra Finance aims to replicate in Sri Lanka, its successful,socially inclusive business model. The Company has created unique products designed around the evolving needs of the customer, and delivers these through a wide network of branches and the optimum use of technology. Mahindra Finance has fueled the entrepreneurial aspirations of over 6.2 million customers in over 370,000 villages in India, and manages an AUM of over USD 10 Billion.

Ideal Finance Ltd. (IFL), a non-banking financial Institution registered with Central Bank of Sri Lanka commenced operations in March, 2012 with a clear focus on rural and semi-urban sector. Its lending portfolio consists of commercial trucks, motor cars, three wheelers, two wheelers, gold loans and personal loans, reflecting the representation of the market segment focused on by IFL. A unique feature of IFL is that as a financial institution it has grown over the past seven years with a quality lending portfolio and an annual sustainable growth in profitability. IFL has an asset base of LKR 4.4 billion and an equity base of LKR 1.1billion. It has ten branches, of which nine are outside the western province located in Jaffna, Anuradhapura, Kurunegala, Bandarawela, Embilipitiya, Moneragala, Elpitiyia, Matara & Kandy. Its current staff strength is 142, a majority of which are based in the branches.

Ramesh Iyer, Vice-Chairman & Managing Director, Mahindra Finance, said “Mahindra Finance, with its strong financial services expertise and innovative products has added value to the lives of millions of customers both in India and in a developed market like the US. We believe that the Sri Lankan market holds great potential for growth. Ideal Finance with its knowledge, highly experienced team, and widespread network is the right partner to help us create a leading financial services company in Sri Lanka. We see a strong, long term growth opportunity in this market and are committed to bringing in the required capital and expertise to fuel this growth.” B

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NEWS

ELYON HOTELS TO LAUNCH ‘ELYON COLOMBO’ DELIVERING NEW AGE IN HOSPITALITY FOR THE BUSINESS TRAVELLER

Mr. Jabr Bib Jabr Al Suwaidi - Director of Oporto, Sri Lanka, Mr. Asanth Sebastian - Director of Oporto, Sri Lanka,, Mr. Craig Tozer- CEO of Oporto, Australia, H.E. Bryce Hutchesson- Australian High Commissioner and Mr. Sharad Sri – Partner/Co-founder at the official opening of Oporto in Sri Lanka

Reflecting a new age in hospitality, in which business travel is inseparable from lifestyle, the Elyon Hotels chain unveiled its new offering, ‘Elyon Colombo’ located at Orion City, Colombo recently.

Presenting a contemporary, vibrant design, with purpose-built smart technology and meaningful dining options,Elyon Colombo, to be opened on 1st August, is envisioned as the go-to destination for business travelers.

Designed by an award-winning international architecture practice, the Elyon Colombo offers tranquil spaces and modern amenities, catering to tech-savvy business travellers as well as the MICE travel sector.

Commenting at the launch, Presantha Jayamaha, Co-founder, Elyon Hotels, said“The Elyon Hotels chain is more focused than ever on providing exceptional and unique experiences to our guests. With the Elyon Colombo hotel we believe these experiences will resonate well with business travelers as we provide reimagined spaces designed for greater flexibility and sociability, facilitate authentic dining options, innovative approaches for recreation and relaxation together with state-of-the-art business facilities that matter.”

Additionally, Elyon Colombo’s highly accessible and premier location within the Orion City Park, especially for business travelers visiting the park, and its proximity to commercial hubs such as Colombo, Fort, Dematagoda and Kelaniya ensure convenient access and a compelling advantage to businesses in these localities.

Speaking at the event, Jey Gnanam, Board Director of Orion City said, “Orion City has established an elite portfolio of resident businesses within our complex. The Elyon Colombo is regarded as a fantastic addition complementing our facilities. Businesses within the park will now have access to a range of innovative services for recreation and relaxation ensuring convenience when planning meetings, entertaining visitors and even accommodating foreign clients. Orion City is pleased to add a feature of this caliber to our offering and trust our other clients will enjoy the services offered.”

The hotel is comprised of Deluxe Sun Rise rooms as well as Deluxe City View rooms, a premium suite and a lavish Elyon Suite. All rooms are equipped with high-speed internet, a 49” LCD TV and a host of other amenities tailored to offer maximum comfort and luxury.

The Hotel amenities also feature courier services and business fellowships, laundry, a 24-hour snack kiosk, airport drop/pickup services, special needs accessibility and much more. Guest facilities include the Mintaka Restaurant - featuring epicurean cuisine, VU19 - a vibrant and sociable bar, the fully fitted out gym on the 20th floor; Elyon Colombo offers business and leisure travelers an elevated experience from arrival to departure.

The hotel is also purpose-built to host a range of MICE, conference or meeting, events with facilities that include three state-of-the-art meeting and event spaces including the Sky Function Hall that can accommodate over 120pax and ideal for corporate functions.

These spaces have been designed to inspire innovative thinking, feature unique designs and technology that spark new ideas and optimize work and collaboration.

Conveniently located within 20 minutes of Bandaranaike International Airport, and at the new Gateway into Colombo’s commercial hub;the Elyon Colombo exemplifies Elyon Hotel chain’s focus to deliver truly guestinspired hospitality services to niche customer segments. B www.ballysmagazine.com