The Islandchief Travel Tabloid | Sri Lanka Edition| 01 |October Issue 2019

VOL 01 | October 2019 | www.islandchief.lk

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SRILANKAN AIRLINES CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE NATION PAGE:02

REDISCOVER ISLAND TRADITIONS IN SIGNATURE ANANTARA STYLE PAGE:08

Exclusive Interview with

PRIME MINISTER OF SRI LANKA ARRIVES IN THE MALDIVES ON OFFICIAL VISIT

RUSSELL COOL

AREA GENERAL MANAGER, ONYX HOSPITALITY GROUP – SRI LANKA

Page: 10 PAGE:16

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VOL 01 | October 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

AVIATION PRESS

SriLankan Airlines celebrates 40 years of service to the nation Exactly forty years ago on September 1, 1979, the first flight of SriLankan Airlines was made, the aircraft rising gracefully from Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport to wing its way to Bangkok. It was the modest start of the National Carrier’s four decades as the mainstay of air travel and air cargo transportation for the island nation’s economy.

on-board comforts such as flatbeds in Business Class and sophisticated inflight entertainment that complement its world class service. With SriLankan being repeatedly named one of the most punctual airlines in the world, they also get to enjoy on-time departure and arrival, a rarity in air travel.

SriLankan isn’t only an airline. To support the operations of every Today, SriLankan Airlines is a global airline that flies to Colombo, award winning airline that carries SriLankan has built up numerous millions of passengers each year support services with their own with a route network of 109 cities in unique brands and identities.

48 countries, including codeshare SriLankan Ground Handling is operations in partnership with the the ground handler caring for world’s finest airlines. It is firmly passengers of all airlines at the established as one of the leading country’s two international airports; airlines in the Indian Ocean region, SriLankan Cargo works closely with being the largest carrier to both Sri all economic sectors to support the Lanka and the Maldives, and the country’s economy and as one of largest foreign airline in India. the most important logistics links for the country’s economy, it carries Vipula Gunatilleka, Group CEO of SriLankan Airlines said: “Our objective imports, exports, mail and much more; SriLankan Engineering provides is to become the most customerengineering and maintenance facilities centric airline in Asia, both in the air for all airlines at BIA; the SriLankan and on the ground, building on our four decades of excellence in customer Aviation College is one of the more reputed aviation training academies in service for which we have won numerous international accolades with the region, grooming future aviation professionals from many countries; our emphasis on safety, punctuality and SriLankan Holidays is involved in and service.” leisure travel packages, both inbound A member of the prestigious oneworld and outbound. global airline partnership, SriLankan Airlines also connects travelers to over SriLankan Catering, its fully owned subsidiary has won several 1,000 cities in 160 countries through its oneworld partner airlines. Travelers international awards for its inget to enjoy SriLankan’s all-Airbus fleet flight catering expertise that serves all airlines at BIA, and recently of modern aircraft with their latest

announced the launch of an LKR 250 million project for a sophisticated new flight kitchen which would increase its production capacity to 40,000 meals per day.

The airline has now embarked upon a new Business Plan that is aimed at turning around the company to profitability in the shortest possible time.

Throughout much of its history, the National Carrier unflinchingly shouldered the additional responsibility of providing smooth air services during the country’s many crises ranging from the civil war to the 2004 tsunami, with the latest emergency being the Easter Sunday attacks. While many airlines have ceased operations to Colombo from time to time, sometimes for several years, SriLankan has continued to persevere in order to provide a solid air travel network for the country to depend on. It has especially focused on the struggling tourism industry which benefits immensely from the airline’s global marketing efforts in promoting leisure and business travel to the island.

Mr. Gunatilleka added: “Our staff has been our biggest strength and we look to them to ring in many changes to help SriLankan evolve. Next year, new destinations such as Ahmedabad, Calicut, Katmandu, Saigon and Sydney will be added and several code-share agreements have been finalized with carriers from Africa, Middle East and the Far East to bridge the gaps in our network. We plan to reduce carbon emissions and use of plastic on board by implementing several cost saving initiatives including fuel saving measures for our fleet. At the same time, the impact of global terrorism, trade tensions and climate change must be addressed.”

Ukrainian low-cost air carrier seeks to fly Sri Lanka Ukrainian-based SkyUp Airlines, a low-cost air carrier, which belongs to SkyUp LLC, plans to launch flights from Ukraine’s capital city of Kyiv to Sri Lanka and Austria, Unian info reported.

SkyUp Airlines has submitted an application to the State Aviation Administration of Ukraine for regular flights from Kyiv to Sri Lanka and Austria, the Avianews aviation news portal said.

In particular, SkyUp asks for permission to fly from Kyiv to Colombo twice a week from October 1 for an unlimited period, as well as launch the KyivSalzburg flights on the same terms.

At present, there are no direct flights from Ukraine to Colombo and Salzburg.

Earlier, the Kyiv-Colombo flight was operated by Ukraine’s largest air carrier, Ukraine International Airlines (UIA), which later closed it due to the flight’s inefficiency.

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VOL 01 | October, 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

AVIATION PRESS

Poland’s flag carrier LOT Polish to launch WarsawColombo direct flights from November Commencing this winter season, Poland’s flag carrier LOT will fly from Warsaw to Sri Lanka with flights being operated seasonally, with three weekly flights during November and March, on its modern fleet of Boeing 7879 Dreamliners.

With the new series of seasonal flights, Colombo becomes the sixth Asian long-haul destination in the growing network of LOT and the first regular seasonal winter service commenced for travelers seeking an exotic winter vacation. The first take-off is scheduled for 3rd November 2019. The flights will operate until 28th March, 2020 three times a week.

Sri Lanka will take about 9 hours,” LOT Polish Airlines CEO Rafał Milczarski said.

Over the recent past, South Asia has become one of the most frequently chosen destination for an increasing number of passengers travelling from many European countries.

Lanka,” Milczarski added.

assumptions have been implemented by the Poland’s flag carrier ahead of The new connection will operate using time. LOT is constantly expanding its the most modern wide-bodied aircraft fleet.

Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Each aircraft Sri Lanka in particular has emerged LOT ensured the shortest travel to Sri as one of the region’s most attractive offers passengers the choice between In December last year, the operator three service classes: LOT Business received subsequent new aircraft: destinations given its kilometres of Lanka to passengers not only from Class with armchairs unfolding to form additional four Embraer 190s (LOT sandy beaches, lush greenery, ancient Poland but also from across many already operates 34 Embraer aircraft architecture and outstanding cuisine. a flatbed position and with cuisine other European countries. like from the best restaurant; LOT of four types) also another four more Premium Economy Class with a larger, B787 Dreamliner will join the fleet by “LOT Dreamliners have been used “We decided to start a regular individual space, comfortable seats the end of this year growing its fleet on charter services to many popular connection to Sri Lanka due to the with footrests, thigh rests, cocktail to 15. exotic destinations in the world for a very high tourist potential of this tables and a rich menu, as well as number of years thanks to the perfect direction. Annually, more than 1.8 LOT Economy Class with modern LOT carried a record number of over cooperation with tour operators. million passengers travel between armchairs with individual on-board 8.9 million passengers in 2018, more Europe and Colombo. “Our convenient I am glad that we can take another entertainment screens and USB by 2 million than a year earlier. This schedule guarantees passengers from step today and announce the launch sockets as well as fresh and varied year Poland’s flag carrier will take on of the first regular long-haul service, all of the cities in Poland, Western meals served during the voyage. board 10 million passengers. Currently, which will be operated in the winter Europe, Baltic States served by LOT, The launch of the new connection LOT uses 80 modern aircrafts every season for tourists from Warsaw and as well as from Prague, Zagreb or Budapest short travel time to Colombo other European cities. It’s the shortest between Warsaw and Colombo is part day. The carrier already offers 111 of the profitable growth strategy that scheduled connections on three with a convenient transfers via Warsaw and most convenient way for them LOT has been implementing since the continents in its scheduled offer.

Chopin Airport. Flights from Warsaw to to get to the beautiful beaches of Sri beginning of 2016, and most of its

A new milestone for Sri Lanka’s private commercial aviation industry year 2000 added another aircraft of similar capacity to its fleet, bringing the fleet to 3 aircrafts within a year of operation. With the increase of its fleet, FitsAir expanded its cargo operations to neighboring India and across to Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates.

In a milestone achievement, FitsAir was granted approval by the Civil Aviation Authority to conduct its own ground handling in 2002, being the first private airline to do so. In June FitsAir operated its first-ever development of the local private 2002 FitsAir expanded its operations international passenger charter flight commercial aviation industry. The from cargo to daily scheduled by a local private operator from flight took off on schedule and arrived domestic passenger flights with a Sri Lanka on 27th August 2019. The ahead of schedule at Visakhapatnam. leased 96 seater twin aisled aircraft, international passenger charter flight flying from Ratmalana Airport Colombo from Ratmalana to Visakhapatnam was FitsAir commenced operations in to Palaly Airport, Jaffna. With the operated by FitsAir on its 70 seater 1997 with a leased cargo aircraft of 10 tremendous success of the domestic – ATR 72 aircraft. Whilst recording a tonne capacity flying from Sri Lanka passenger operations FitsAir invested historical first by any private local to the Maldives Islands. The same in three 50 seater aircrafts in 2003 and air operator, FitsAir has played a year, the company purchased its own increased the frequency of flights to 6 very silent but crucial role in the 15 tonne Cargo aircraft and in the daily.

FitsAir also manages a portfolio of Ancillary business lines, across South Asia and the Middle East. These include Cargo Network Management, Ground Handling & Engineering Services. FITS Aviation is a pioneer in Sri Lankan Aviation, being the first privately operated Sri Lankan airline to be licensed for international cargo operations by the Civil Aviation Authority Sri Lanka (CAASL).

Additionally, FITS Aviation is a BOIapproved entity that operates its own aircraft with a fleet of ATR72 aircraft.

Today, FitsAir is proud to announce that they are an international freighter operator based and operating out of Katunayake cargo hub serving the region. FitsAir operates passenger flights out of RMA and BIA to domestic airports.

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VOL 01 | October 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

NEW OPENINGS

Theme Resorts & Spas make another giant leap The first recognized hotel in Mandaramnuwara featuring 16 luxury rooms and all amenities of a boutique hotel, Tea & Experience Factory ceremonially opened its doors to guests on 30th July.

Staying true to its positive attitude which led to the opening the famous hotel Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa following the 30 years of civil war, Theme Resorts & Spas marks another positive leap during a time where the tourism industry of Sri Lanka is not at its best.

at Kabaragalla Tea factory in Mandaramnuwara as the highest price for its tea during Colombo’s first tea auction.

aim is to offer our guests an authentic Sri Lankan experience instead of a mere bed and buffet.”

Having proved its knack for sustainability and innovation, it is proud to play its part in uplifting the tourism industry during difficult times.

Theme Resorts & Spas Chandra Wickramasinghe also Chairman Chandra claims a prestigious history Wickramasinghe said: “Our

Wickramasinghe Kabaragalla Tea factory in Mandaramnuwara claims a prestigious history where it fetched the highest price for its tea at the first tea auction of Colombo.

Experience the spectacular hill country: Welcome to Nine Skies

Promising far-reaching hill country views, the stylish refurbished five-bedroom tea bungalow hotel is majestically perched on a tea-fringed hill near Ella. Dating back to the colonial era, the bungalow epitomises its legacy yet indulges discerning guests with contemporary facilities and high-end personalised service.

Travellers will be pampered by their butlers, feast on gourmet food and dip into a garden pool with stunning views across the valley and famous Demodera - a village in Sri Lanka’s South Eastern Hill Country noted for its spectacular viaduct, the Nine Arch Railway Bridge, and a 360-degree loop in the track.

Neighbouring Demodera, is Ella, a mountain village, revered for its waterfalls, landmark walks, and far-reaching views.

and surrounding estate. All rooms are stylishly furnished and have ensuite bathrooms with tubs for soaking in after scenic strolls around the tea plantations. The homely bungalow has three rooms types.

The magnificent Ella Rock Suite, has a private sitting room, direct garden access and is decadently spacious while the three double Demodera Bedrooms proffer private Experience the luxury in the luxury in a setting redolent hills. Nine Skies is home to five of days gone by. Nine Skies luxurious bedrooms proffering Bedroom is equipped with twin period furnishings and custom- beds, and since this cosy room designed fittings, which open interconnects with a Demodera onto the tea-fringed garden Bedroom, it is ideal for families.

Dining in Ella reaches new heights at the atmospheric restaurant which overlooks the landscaped garden. The hotel butlers are poised to pamper the guests ina home from home setting,mixing your favourite drinks for sipping in the sitting room, and serving afternoon tea and freshly cooked gourmet meals to tables inside the bungalow or out on the garden veranda.

Experiences in Ella range from exploring this stretch of Main Line railway – the Nine Arch Bridge viaduct and the Demodera Loop – to day-tripping to the colonialera towns of Haputale and

Bandarawela. Other things to do in Ella’s verdant surroundings include visiting Sri Lanka’s longest covered wooden bridge, swimming in pristine waterfalls and picnicking in private locations handpicked for their heart stopping scenery.

Currently, a special promotion is announced for 3-4 nights to experience the Nine Skies – in Luxury Hills till 13th December 2019. For more information, please visit www.teardrophotels.com

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VOL 01 | October 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

NEW APPOINTMENTS

Well known personalities in the Hospitality Industry: Gale and Fernandopulle joins the Cinnamon British national Dermot Gale counts over 40 years in the hospitality industry with stints in some of the leading hotel brands. Prior to this appointment as the General Manager of Cinnamon Grand, the flagship hotel of the Cinnamon brand, Gale was the General Manager of Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, the premier five-star resort in the city. He is also Vice President, John Keells Holdings.

Dermot Gale General Manager Cinnamon Grand

Rohan Fernandopulle General Manager, Cinnamon Lakeside

During his tenure, he led the hotel to achieve several coveted accolades, including the title of Best Culinary Hotel at the Chefs’ Guild Culinary Awards 2018, Best Five Star City Hotel at the Sri Lanka Tourism Awards 2018, and the property being ranked 11th place in the Top 25 properties in Sri Lanka by Trip Advisor Traveller’s Choice Awards for 2019.

Cinnamon Red - Rohan Fernandopulle a well-known personality in the hospitality industry, takes over as General Manager at Cinnamon Lakeside. He is a celebrated chef with nearly four decades of experience, both locally and internationally. He has won several prestigious awards for his culinary expertise, as well as F&B initiatives that have helped to showcase contemporary Sri Lanka with a modern twist.

Fernandopulle, in his new role, takes the helm of Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo as a Vice President of JKH and overlooks F&B initiatives for Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts.

Fernandopulle is the President of Bocuse d’Or. He is also the only Sri Lankan member of the prestigious ‘Club Des Chefs Des Chefs’ and is a member of the famous club, Chain des Rotisseurs as Chef de Rotisseur. His As a driven, passionate hotelier, he has specialty is trans-ethnic cuisine which he worked for various leading hotel brands around the world including France, Bermuda, pioneered in Sri Lanka. the Cayman Islands, St. Lucia, Barbados, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Maldives.

Cinnamon Lakeside Union assurance

Karr to Head Amaya Leisure & The Kingsbury Veteran hotelier Rohan Karr joined Amaya Leisure PLC and The Kingsbury as an Executive Director/Managing Director with effect from 1st June, 2019.

In a disclosure statement issued to the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), the Chairman of Amaya Leisure PLC, Mohan Pandithage confirmed Karr’s appointment. He also notified the CSE that Karr has been appointed to the board of Hayleys PLC as an Executive Director on the aforementioned date.

Both Amaya Resorts and The Kingsbury is owned by Hayleys PLC. Presently Karr is the Executive Vice President of John Keells Holdings and Sector Head for Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts – City Hotels. A revered figure in the local hospitality sector, Karr played an instrumental role in the branding team that launched Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in 2005.

Karr academically holds a Masters in Hospitality and Business Studies from the UK. Prior to his return to Sri Lanka, he served as the Regional Director of Revenue Management of Marriott Hotels for Whitbread Hotel Company in England and as the General Manager of Bristol Marriott Hotel, England and Marriott Marble Arch.

Asian Hotels & Properties PLC and Trans Asia Hotels PLC affirmed that Karr has resigned from his post as the Executive Director from both companies on 24th May. Lalin T Samarawickrama, the current Executive Director/ Managing Director from The Kingsbury and Managing

Director of Amaya Leisure resigned from his duties on 1st June. However, he will continue as a Non-executive Director for Amaya Leisure PLC. Amaya leisure has nine properties across Sri Lanka and one resort in the Maldives. The local hotels include Amaya Beach in Pasikudah; Amaya Hills and Amaya Bungalow in Kandy; Amaya Lake and Amaya Signature in Dambulla; Amaya Langdale and The Oliphant in Nuwara Eliya and Amuna Ayurveda Retreat in Sigiriya.

In January, Hayleys Group sold its controlling 66.2 per cent share of Hunas Falls Hotels PLC for Rs. 696.3 million to Serenity Lake Leisure Ltd.

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VOL 01 | October, 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

ISLAND PRESS

Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa celebrates two years of success in Sri Lanka

Marriott Hotels celebrated the second anniversary of its flagship property, Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa, in July this year. The iconic resort, set by the enchanting Weligama Bay, felicitated its present and former associates whose contribution has been immeasurable, to mark two years of success in the industry.

Weligama Bay Marriot Resort & Spa offers aesthetically pleasing rooms decorated with earthy tones to create a relaxing feeling. Each unit of accommodation offers uncompromising views of the Indian Ocean and includes a king or twin bed configuration. A separate bath and shower, 55-inch television, complimentary Wi-Fi and a balcony to enjoy the seascapes from ensures each guest a private sanctuary. Guests are spoilt for choice with five food and beverage outlets at the resort.

team led by the Executive Chef Pavan, who is bound by his vision to present guests with cuisines tailored to suit the individual palette. The taste buds of seafood-lovers are also catered to, as the resort’s Big Fish restaurant offers gourmet grilled and fresh catch sourced directly from fishmongers in the locale.

Tides, the integration of the Lobby and Lobby Lounge with a clearly defined bar transitions from a coffee and pastry focus in the day to alcoholic beverages and snacks in the evening.

Mirissa Baking Company provides The all-day dining restaurant, freshly-baked desserts and snacks, Weligama Kitchen, spreads across different zones. Each serves a distinct accompanied by a selection of fine coffee, fresh juices and specialty cuisine, ranging from traditional drinks. There’s also the pool bar Surf’s Sri Lankan specialties, to Tuscan, Up, that serves refreshing cocktails Cantonese and Indian delicacies and and simple Asian and Western nibbles. an interactive live kitchen where all The young guests are entertained at the action ensues. The contemporary the resort’s Kids Club, full of fun-filled all-day dining restaurant which is gaming activities as well as designated accentuated with rustic yet elegant pieces provide for a perfect ambience play areas for toddlers. Adults can find refuge at the resort’s renowned Quan for one and all.

Spa which offers authentic Thai and Weligama Kitchen is also known for the Swedish therapies alongside modern popular one-on-one table experience techniques, to revitalise the body with the resort’s distinguished culinary and restore clarity of mind. A well-

equipped fitness centre caters to those that the associates are aware of the business and their ideas are valued. who desire physical activity.

Our operation as a result has set The resort has already been bestowed international standards across Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector,” stated with awards including the ‘World Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa Luxury Spa Award’, and being Human Resources Director Sanchitha recognised by the ‘Great place to Uduwawidane.

Work’ organisation. Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa is a preferred “Our primary goal is to ensure that employer whose associates take the expectations of each guest are pride in their different roles, working fulfilled, their individual needs are towards business goals and personal identified and catered to, and all our development opportunities. patrons have a memorable experience.

We are humbled by the number of The ‘Marriott Way’ is built on repeat guests who to patronise the fundamental ideals of service to associates, customers, and community. hotel. We recognise our associates as the pillar of our success and the Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & company is expanding its footprint Spa is constantly working towards in Sri Lanka. We will continue to discovering creative ways to enhance create more career opportunities for the experience of each guest as well as finding opportunities for associates. the youth, and distinct hospitality experiences for the local and “Take care of your employees and international traveller,” said General they’ll take care of your customers” Manager Elton Hurtis. is the vision of the founder J.W Marriott Sr. on whose philosophy the Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa company’s fundamentals are based. invites all to take the advantage of the “The welfare of our associates is special offers, including meals and of utmost importance; continuous some great add-ons. engagement and feedback sessions are in place, with a view to ensuring

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VOL 01 | October 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

ISLAND PRESS

JetWing Light House Iconic Heritage Luxury in The Tropical South

Jetwing Lighthouse reopened their doors on 1st August with refurbishments after 3 months. The key overhauls included the renovation of 63 rooms in the main wing, public areas, restaurants and the pool bar.

The main wing which previously had deluxe rooms have been upgraded to the luxury category. The management has decided to operate its sister property, Jetwing Lighthouse Club under Jetwing Lighthouse renaming the two sections as main wing and spa wing.

The Lighthouse Hotel PLC is operated by a company that has spent 46 years in the tourism and hospitality industry and when it first opened its doors in 1997 as a magnificent addition to the Jetwing Family of Hotels. The first aspect that strikes the eye is the unique architecture that distinguishes the property. The work of Sri Lanka’s most revered architect, Geoffrey Bawa, an eclectic blend of Moorish, Oriental and Dutch influences are everywhere to be seen, from the rampart-like façade entrance, the centrally located magnificent spiral staircase and the

uniquely distinguishing use of rustic colour schemes throughout. It was an architect’s eye that saw the potential of locating the Hotel at a key point along the SouthWestern coastal belt of Sri Lanka, within striking distance of the historically significant city of Galle and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle Fort.

Today, Jetwing Lighthouse offers luxurious accommodation to leisure and business travelers from around the world. The breathtaking views and the elegant charm of the Hotel have made it an ideal location for weddings and events as well. Jetwing Lighthouse has a range of accommodation options including three themed suites and 60 rooms with 3 restaurants, 2 bars and wellness centre on offer. The

Lighthouse Hotel PLC also operates Jetwing Kurulubedda, a boutique hotel with two private dwellings and four rooms, the exclusive Jetwing Lighthouse Club with 22 rooms including two themed suites, Galle Heritage Villa by Jetwing and Hotel J Unawatuna.

The subtle and refined atmosphere is elevated with the traditional Sri Lankan hospitality, Jetwing is renowned. Hiran Cooray, Chairman of The Lighthouse PLC stated that “The world is with us, the people of our country stand strong and united – together, we will be stronger and more determined to show the best of Sri Lankan hospitality to Sri Lankans and visitors from around the world.”

Rediscover island traditions in signature Anantara style Everyday life is filled with opportunities to seek the exceptional, encounter the new and widen horizons of Anantara. A stay at Anantara is just one more chapter in a lifetime of travel and exploration. And they intend to make it an extraordinary one.

This offer invites Sri Lankan residents and Sri Lankan resident visa holders to experience seaside indulgence in a tranquil garden setting overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort sits on a rocky outcrop on the southern coast of Sri Lanka near the old fort town of Tangalle.

Golden-hued beach fringed by coconut palms overlooks the roaring Indian Ocean. Explore the island’s rainforests, pilgrimage sites and fishing ports. Dine cliffside, embark on surf adventures, or retreat to the sanctuary of Anantara Spa with award-winning Ayurvedic treatments.

The special package includes; accommodation in a room or villa, daily breakfast, lunch and dinner for two persons, 30% saving on spa treatments, daily happy hour on beverages from 5.00 pm - 7:00 pm, Booking is open till 30th November 2019.

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VOL 01 | October, 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

ISLAND PRESS

Heritance Kandalama, the pioneer of sustainable hospitality turns 25 years True progress can only be achieved when development is inclusive, responds to pressing needs and is sustainable environmentally, socially and economically. A green building was unheard of 25 years ago, let alone a five-star deluxe hotel property with 152 rooms with all facilities, that would protect and enrich its surrounding ecosystem in its pristine condition, provide sustainable income to the local communities and offer high-quality service to a plethora of visitors from across the globe. It always seems impossible till it is done. From the pearl of the Indian ocean, nestled among the lush greens in the Cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, the world got an example of sustainable development in the form of Heritance Kandalama. Today, Heritance Kandalama celebrates 25 years.

Intelligent design, Sustainable in its operation

than 20 diverse types of waste and monitored to achieve an ambitious goals of zero waste reaching landfill; Designed by renowned architect and energy is managed to reduce Deshamanya Geoffrey Bawa, the hotel emissions. The hotel has undertaken resembles outspread wings of a bird, the conservation of 58 acres of forest following the line of the cliff from area, flora and fauna within the hotel which it seems to emerge. Due to and another 198 acres of forest cover the raised platform of the structure, adjacent to the property in its pristine natural water streams that passed condition protecting 128 species through the area 25 years ago still flow of native flora, 183 species of birds, unobstructed, enriching over 30 water 19 species of reptiles, 64 species of systems downstream. Conceptualised dragons and butterflies. The Eco Park at Heritance Kandalama has educated to blend into the eco-system, the hotel allows freedom of movement for more than 3 million visitors to date.

Heritance Kandalama, part of Aitken wildlife and vegetation.

Spence Hotel Holdings PLC, is the first LEED certified hotel in the world and Today, 100% of its wastewater and effluents are treated and repurposed; the first building outside USA to be certified (LEED, Leadership in Energy solid waste is segregated to more

and Environmental Design, is the most widely used green building rating system in the world). It is also the first Green Globe 21 certified hotel in Asia and perhaps the most awarded hotel property in Sri Lanka.

property to give priority to local employment and purchasing, many suppliers are also local entrepreneurs.

25 years of celebrations

To commemorate this iconic concept that is more than just a hotel, the management has planned several The hotel started its journey by events with the engagement of the employing 80 local individuals from local communities and institutions. the area in 1993 with little to no Follow the property on social media to experience in customer handling and mark this occasion with the property hospitality. With the commitment of and stand a chance to be a lucky winner of a memorable experience at Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings PLC, these individuals have developed with the hotel. the property. Now, our award-winning team is strengthened by over 60% members who are from the immediate community. With the policies of the Part of the community

RUSSELL COOL AREA GENERAL MANAGER ONYX HOSPITALITY GROUP – SRI LANKA 1.How did you decide on hospitality as a career?

After finishing high school, I studied Travel & Tourism whilst also working at a hotel in Australia. I always preferred the dynamic nature of hotels rather than sitting behind a travel desk. I decided to use the skills attained from my studies and experience working in hotels and have been doing so for past 27 years and could not think of an industry I would rather be involved in. Hospitality offers so much diversity, whether that be finance, sales or operations, not many industries can give you a varied career path that can take you all over the world.

2. What has been your biggest takeaways from the hospitality industry? Tell us about the key issues it is struggling with?

The hospitality industry for the most part is unskilled labour and as a result the levels required to service hotels can become inconsistent; adding to this the transient nature of these employees makes it a struggle to maintain consistency in product and service.

Talent retention is the most pressing issue the industry faces today. As more and more product is built, it gives opportunity for this talent to progress their careers at a greater pace than when I first started out. As a result, the turnover rate of hospitality is relatively high and as such more emphasis is now placed on employee engagement; ensuring that we provide a holistic view of each employee’s wellbeing.

Salaries are only a small part of the employee’s requirements now; at ONYX Hospitality Group we focus on employee benefits as well as salary levels. Benefits such as medical insurance, balanced healthy duty meals and dormitory options are all high on our priority lists when budget each year. Training is at the forefront of our plans, as there will always be hotels that can offer higher salary levels. Our focus is on developing from within starting from our rank and file employees all the way up to our senior managers and should they then go onto another hotel or industry, they do so with our blessing and knowledge that we have developed them to a level that they will succeed.

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Whilst technology plays a big part in curating the guest experience, both prior to and during the guests stay, nothing can surpass good old fashion hospitality.”

3. In terms of service, what factors set you apart from other hotels and resorts in the region?

As mentioned, the transient and unskilled labour force means extra attention is required when developing our human resources. ONYX Hospitality Group focuses heavily on its rank and file team members with both online and offline training programs. Each of our hotels have built “Learning Labs” which are dedicated areas for both selfpaced online training and formal training programs delivered by our specialised Area Learning & Development Manager here in Sri Lanka.

5. In what ways do you personalize the guest experience during their stay with you? & 6. How are you integrating technology to improve the guest experience at your hotels?

Technology goes hand in hand with personalised, genuine service. ONYX Hospitality Group’s CRM (Customer Relationship Management) technology curates the requirements of each guest based on their previous search patterns of products allowing us to then present personalised information to assist them with their bookings. This information is archived into on-property experiences, and is available to us at any time or upon a guests’ return to the hotel, ensuring seamless delivery of Our training priorities set us apart from others, developing and promoting from within, as well as service, often discreet to the guests’ knowledge on the fact that we have a number of ONYX Managed our effort in taking such a personal approach to their needs. Whilst technology plays a big part in hotels in the region gives opportunities to all those who work with us. In the past 12 months we curating the guest experience, both prior to and during the guests stay, nothing can surpass good have had many of our employees move between our properties and take promotions along the way. old fashion hospitality. Greeting each guest with a smile, using their name and being genuine is what Notably the highest profile of these changes is the new Hotel Manager of The Villas, Wadduwa, an hospitality is about. At ONYX Hospitality we live by certain values and these are instilled into each ONYX managed hotel just south of Colombo, who and every employee and we recruit on this basis; was promoted from Rooms Division Manager at OZO Colombo. The new Human Resources Director we can train for the skill, we cannot train attitude. at Amari Havodda Maldives was promoted from Human Resources Manager at Amari Galle and the 7. How often do you conduct trainings for your list goes on. This is what sets us apart from others frontline staff and what are the key areas that you focus on? as we can move skilled labour to our properties across the region allowing for continuity of service standards and maintaining high quality employees Training & Development is a daily activity on many levels. Our technology and learning facilities are within our global organisation. all tied into our policies and procedures to ensure consistency of delivery in the training. All team 4. Millennials are constantly changing the members complete their learning modules and hospitality and travel industry. One of their are formally assessed and scored with an 80 per top demands is for unique and authentic travel cent pass requirement. We have over 400 courses experiences. How does your company provide conducted via our online learning module and them with a new and different experience? whilst not all team members complete all these modules, we do have core modules centered on This is an evolving topic and not necessarily centered on so called “millennials”. I think people both soft skills and technical front-line service delivery across the many departments of the of all ages and cultures are looking for authentic hotels. Training is not just about formalised experiences to supplement their travel and fulfill their ‘bucket list’ of destinations to visit, and this training courses or programs, each employee is not just about the young but more about the is encouraged to self-educate and we make young at heart. Our properties in Sri Lanka offer a allowances in time off for this training or variety of experiences, whether that be staying at development to be undertaken. Like most in Amari Galle and learning to cook Hoppers, jumping the industry, on-the-job feedback is a constant process to ensure that our teams are focused on into a Safari Tuk Tuk and going off the beaten tracks of Galle or pick tea in tea fields to mention a enriching guest experiences. few examples.

8. How is the progress on the road to recovery from the impacts of the Easter Sunday terror attacks?

Progress is occurring; however, ADR is the main concern as many believe that discounts drive demand. This could not be further from the truth, at least not on a long-term basis so the quicker the market realises that deep discounts don’t work the quicker the revenue will come back to some normality. We are already seeing our hotels get back some of the occupancy but at the expense of ADR and as an industry we need to stand together and push the rates back to their normal levels as I can already see that the current rates are now starting to be considered the norm and this has far reaching implications on profitability of hotels.

Guests will travel, Sri Lanka has a lot to offer and I trust that the market will understand the value Sri Lanka has to offer.

9. Do you offer any loyalty programs or special offers to your guests?

ONYX Hospitality Group has a rewards program across its global network on a tiered basis with rewards offered to those who stay regularly.

Furthermore, our hotels here in Sri Lanka (OZO Colombo, OZO Kandy, Amari Galle & The Villas Wadduwa) offer a dining card that gives guests discounts and value-adds when using the restaurants and bars across Sri Lanka.

10. Your company has a target of 99 hotel openings by 2024 as part of its journey aiming at the best medium-sized hospitality player in the region. Do you have any plans to open another property soon in Sri Lanka or in a neighboring South Asian country?

In short yes. We are currently constructing Amari Colombo, due to open early 2020. We also have OZO Maldives under construction and slated to open in 2021. There are a number of other properties in the pipeline across the region, including Sri Lanka and we hope to be in the position to talk about these soon.

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LATEST NEWS

Free Visa On Arrival from 1st August 2019 The Sri Lankan cabinet has decided to launch the visa on arrival program from 1st August 2019.

Visitors from 48 countries will be eligible for a free visa on arrival for Sri Lanka. The visa will be valid for 30-days and the scheme will run for six months. Visa on arrival will be extended to business travellers of the 48 countries as well.

ban, Russia and Saudi Arabia are yet to tone down their travel advisory to Sri Lanka. The list of countries includes many of Sri Lanka’s top source markets, such as Australia, UK, France, Germany, China, India and the USA.

The full list of countries being given free visa on arrival is as follows: 1. Australia 2. Austria 3. Belgium 4. Bulgaria 5. Cambodia 6. Canada 7. China Minister Amaratunga added that the country is 8. Croatia expecting a total of 1.9 – 2 million arrivals in 2019.

9. Cyprus Many in the industry feel that the recovery is happening quicker than expected, however, it is still 10. Czech Republic 11. Denmark very early days.

12. Estonia 13. Finland The pilot programme, which was initially agreed upon in April and scheduled to be launched from 1st 14. France 15. Germany May, was put on hold amid security concerns after 16. Greece the April attacks. The launch of the visa on arrival 17. Hungary program was announced at a press conference 18. Iceland chaired by Tourism Minister, John Amaratunga 19. India alongside members of Sri Lanka Tourism after the cabinet had approved the decision. It is hoped this 20. Indonesia 21. Ireland will help boost foreign arrival numbers which have 22. Israel been significantly down in May and June.

23. Italy 24. Japan While many countries have softened their travel Sri Lanka Emigrations encouraged tourists to apply online for the electronic travel authorization, to avoid delays at the airport. An arrival visa counter will also be added at the airport to accelerate the arrival process. Visitors who want to extend their stay in Sri Lanka will have to apply for the visa extension separately.

25. Latvia 26. Lithuania 27. Luxembourg 28. Malta 29. Malaysia 30. Netherlands 31. Norway 32. New Zealand 33. Philippines 34. Poland 35. Portugal 36. Romania 37. Russia 38. Singapore 39. Slovak Republic 40. Slovenia 41. South Korea 42. Spain 43. Sweden 44. Switzerland 45. Thailand 46. Ukraine 47. United Kingdom 48. United States of America SLTDA data shows that arrivals increased from 1,200 per day in May to 2,100 per day in June and are reported to be around 4,000 per day by mid-July, a positive sign for Sri Lanka Tourism. Chairman of SLTPB, Kishu Gomes forecasts arrival numbers in July to stand at 117,000. “We have seen a 70 percent month on month recovery since May.”

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LATEST NEWS

Prime Minister of Sri Lanka arrives in the Maldives on Official Visit

The Prime Minister of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, His Excellency Ranil Wickramasinghe arrived in the Maldives on an Official Visit on 2nd September 2019.

The Prime Minister, accompanied by his spouse, Professor Maithree Wickremasinghe, and visiting delegation arrived at Velana International Airport and was received by His Excellency, Foreign Minister of the Republic of Maldives, Abdulla Shahid.

During this official visit, Prime Minister will hold bilateral discussions with His Excellency, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, on strengthening relations between Sri Lanka and the Maldives, which will be further progressed by several cooperation agreements scheduled to be signed between the two Governments.

Maldives, and on the substantial contributions made by Prime Minister Wickremesinghe to strengthening that relationship during his long-tenured and distinguished career as one of Sri Lanka’s top statesmen.

in collaboration with other major actors in the Indian Ocean region.

The President highlighted in particular that it is essential that we organize our efforts to meet one of the perennial menaces of the 21st century, terrorism. He expressed his deepest sympathies Continuing his remarks, the to the Sri Lankan people for this President highlighted that Sri year’s Easter Sunday’s terrorist Lanka and the Maldives have had attacks which claimed hundreds historical links stretching back of innocent lives, whilst restating to ancient times. Further, the the Maldives’ firm resolve to fully President noted that these links eradicate the threat posed by have flourished well into modern violent extremism. Further, he times, thereby facilitating our diplomatic cooperation in both the reiterated that his administration bilateral and multilateral spheres. looks forward to working alongside the government of Sri Lanka in Further, the President stressed the order to meet our many common challenges. importance of the upcoming 4th His Excellency President Ibrahim Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) to Mohamed Solih hosted an official Concluding his remarks, the be hosted in the Maldives on 3rd luncheon in honour of His President thanked the Prime September and chaired by Prime Excellency Prime Minister Ranil Minister for all that he has done to Minister Wickremesinghe. This Wickremesinghe at Kurumba conference, which will thematically enhance friendly ties between Sri Maldives.

Lanka and the Maldives. Further, focus on the traditional and he relayed his best wishes to the During the luncheon, the President non-traditional security threats Government and people of Sri of the Indian Ocean, will allow delivered remarks expounding both our countries to explore new Lanka. on the deep and enduring ties avenues for further engagement between Sri Lanka and the

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VOL 01 | October, 2019 | www.theislandchief.com

LATEST NEWS

Sri Lanka invests in global PR & advertising

Cabinet has approved a sum of Rs. 915 million for Sri Lanka Tourism to invest in a global PR and advertising campaign for the next six months.

to attract more visitors from India, Sri Lanka’s top source market. They also hope to introduce a similar campaign to appeal to Chinese visitors.

Chairman of the SLTPB, Kishu Gomes said they have decided to invest a sum of Rs 500 million for advertising and Rs. 415 million for PR to help the country reposition itself as a top tourist destination. Wunderman Thompson Sri Lanka, the agency that created the initial brand campaign ‘So Sri Lanka’, has been chosen to drive advertising promotions. The name of the PR Company is yet to be disclosed.

Gomes revealed that in terms of promotional activities they will participate in 25 travel exhibitions, 18 road shows and 9 consumer engagements across different countries in the upcoming months.

SLTPB also plans to visit and meet representatives of countries that are not included in these exhibitions in order to promote tourism.

in visiting Sri Lanka and they hope to facilitate this visit soon. He added that the promotions bureau is deliberating over a proposal they have received for a festival covering key tourist locations which will include the participation of world-renowned celebrities and icons from different fields.

“Right now we are considering all options and avenues that will boost Sri Lanka Tourism,” he concluded.

Jacqueline Fernandez recently kicked off Cinnamon’s ‘Bring a Friend Home’ campaign by visiting Sri Lanka in In addition to focusing on August to celebrate her birthday conventional marketing strategies, “We hope to work alongside these with her family and friends. Along companies and identify countries and the promotion bureau also plans the way, she shared a Yacht Tour in to improve Sri Lanka’s social media markets where we can implement presence by bringing down well-known Trincomalee while staying at Trinco promotional activities to boost Sri Lanka tourism in the next few months,” social media influencers and bloggers. Blu by Cinnamon vibrant stream of digital content, showcasing the unique Their role will include creating brand Gomes said at a press conference. experiences that Cinnamon curated for awareness around Sri Lanka as well her and highlighting the attractions, as reinforcing the message that the Sri Lanka Tourism along with country is safe and ready to welcome adventures and moments that made regulatory authorities SLTPB and her trip truly unforgettable. visitors.

SLTDA are working on several initiatives to revive the country’s The ‘Bring a Friend Home’ campaign struggling tourism sector. On June 14, Gomes informed that the CEO of is part of Cinnamon’s strategic effort they launched a promotional package Lonely Planet has expressed interest

to aid the recovery of the country’s tourism industry by harnessing the potential of ambassador-driven influencer marketing and the power of authentic content creation.

Jacqueline was the first celebrity ambassador to participate in the campaign, which gives Sri Lankans and expats based in Sri Lanka, the chance to nominate their friends from abroad to visit the island and stand the chance to win a variety of incredible high-value prizes.

Those interested in taking part can register on www.bringafriendhome. com and invite friends via email, Whatsapp, Facebook or Twitter and will qualify for a raffle draw.

Invitations can be sent from 30th July – 15th December 2019 for stays within the same period. The raffle draw will take place on January 2020.

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BON APPÉTIT

Gotukola & Sri Lankan spice crusted yellow fin tuna, Dhal pomegranate puree, Southern lobster turmeric curry, Onion rice and Beetroot froth Gotukola & Sri Lankan Spice Crusted Yellow Fin Tuna Ingredients • • • • • • • • •

Yellow fin tuna 120g Gotukola 15g Cumin 2g Coriander Seeds 2g White Bread crumbs 4g Curry leaves few leaves Mustard Cream ½ Tsp Salt to taste pepper to taste

Method • For the crust, mix together the fried and crusted gotukola, ground spices, white bread crumbs and season with salt and pepper.

• Season tuna with salt and pepper, apply mustard and coat with the crust & bake at 160°c for 10 minutes.

• Rest for 5 minutes before serving

Dhal Pomegranate Puree Ingredients • • • • • •

Dhal 8g Turmeric pinch Garlic 1 clove Onion 5 Coconut milk (first extract) 20ml Pomegranate seeds 1 tbsp

Method: • • • •

Soak dhal in water for 30 minutes and strain Heat dhal, turmeric, garlic and onion in a pot with a little amount of water until tender Add coconut milk and bring to boil, simmer for a few minutes, add salt and little pepper Mix in pomegranate seeds to finish

Onion Rice

Southern Lobster Turmeric Curry Ingredients

Ingredients

• • • • • • • •

• • • • • • •

Half lobster 170 g Turmeric pinch Chopped onion 10 g Chopped garlic 1 clove Corn oil 5 ml Curry leaves few leaves Mustard cream ½ tsp Coconut Milk 1st extract 30ml

Method • Remove the lobster from its shell and cut into cubes • Blanch the shell • Heat up a small pan with oil, add onion, garlic, curry leaves and sweat for 2 minutes • Add lobster, mustard cream, coconut milk and seasoning and bring it to a boil • Fill into lobster shell and serve Courtesy of Chef Samapath Meddwattege, Executive Chef Amari Galle

Onion 20 g Garlic 1 clove Curry Leaves few leaves Corn oil 5 ml Cooked basmati rice 30 g Salt to taste Crushed pepper to taste

Method • Heat pot with corn oil and sauté sliced onion, chopped garlic and curry leaves until golden brown.

• Add cooked rice and mix well • Season with crushed salt and pepper

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VOL 01 | October 2019 | www.theislandchief.com EVENTS & AWARDS

Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) Awards Hotels through the National Sustainable Tourism Certification (NSTC)

Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) initiated the National Sustainable Tourism Certification (NSTC) as the first step towards making Sri Lanka’s tourism industry sustainable with the technical and financial assistance from UNDP Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN).

As part of the process, hotels were awarded for their sustainable practices on 5th August 2019 at Ape Game, Battaramulla with the participation of John Amaratunga, Minister of Tourism Development, Wildlife & Christian Religious Affairs; Randy Durband, GSTC CEO; and Dr. Mihee Kang, GSTC Director for Asia-Pacific.

The certification scheme was developed within the global context, with the facilitation of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). The certification scheme was designed after a series of consultations with the stakeholders where issues, suggestions, and recommendations were obtained.

As the pilot project, it was decided to implement the certification in the accommodation sector in the first phase and later open it to all tourism service providers. Auditing of hotels started in April 2019 by the SLTDA staff who were trained before by GSTC. “Sri Lanka depends on tourism heavily because it is the third biggest revenue generator of the country,” Minister of Tourism Development Minister John Amaratunga said. “That is why it is of utmost importance that every aspect of the industry operates with the best possible sustainable practices.”

“Tourism consumes high energy be it water, food, usage of sensitive places or the environment and more tourists lead to more impact on the environment, good and bad. It is important to thoroughly think about how to mitigate the negative impacts while properly managing the above and the answer is – Sustainability which respects the nature, culture, society and ecosystem massively,” said Upali Ratnayake, SLTDA Director-General.

“We have to do this because we cannot borrow future from the younger generation,” Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority Chairman Kishu Gomes said.

An MoU between Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority and Global Sustainable Tourism Council was also signed at this occasion.

Parallel to the awards ceremony, a tree-planting “That is exactly what we intend to do through NSTC ceremony took place prior to a three-day – Initiate, measure and monitor the best sustainable sustainable destination management training practices of the industry and recognize them which program held for Government and Provincial Council officers and industry stakeholders. in return will provide us with global opportunity, national benefits locally with long term stability.

90% of the tourism sector key players are from the private sector and we hope this will drive them towards sustainability and we can proudly position Sri Lanka as a Sustainable Destination,” added Mr. Ratnayake.

Randy Durband, GSTC CEO, said the adopting better practices will help Sri Lanka draw tourists emerge faster out of a current downturn due to bombing on Easter Sunday. “This certification gives the discipline that the tourists seek in a destination,” Mr. Durband explained.

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VOL 01 | October, 2019 | www.theislandchief.com EVENTS & AWARDS

Cinnamon Future of Tourism Summit 2019 to explore ‘Challenges and Growth in the Face of a Crisis’ Recognizing the need to uplift Sri Lanka’s travel industry in the wake of 4/21, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts is set to host the third edition of the Future of Tourism Summit (FOT 2019), on 23rd September, at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo.

Running under the theme ‘Challenges and Growth in the Face of a Crisis’, this year’s event will bring together top global destination experts, so they can share their specialist knowledge and insights on how tourism industries can implement sustainable strategies in the long-run and recover and rebuild following a variety of incidents ranging from terror attacks, to natural disasters.

With tourism often contributing substantially to economic growth of different nations, it is imperative that travel brands and industry professionals alike have the tools and know-how needed to respond to and recover after a period of crisis.

This year’s FOT 2019 summit will feature an exclusive line-up of speakers and in-depth talks with top destination marketers and travel industry professionals. The summit will kick-off with a special discussion with Richard Quest, with his comprehension on the future of tourism locally and globally, followed by the keynote speaker of FOT 2019, Anita Mendiratta (Special Advisor to the Secretary-General, UNWTO) who will explore her topic ‘Rising Above – Emerging Stronger Through Crisis’.

The summit will also feature Sarah Mathews – from Trip Advisor, Michael Yam – CEO and Managing Director of Impetus Alliance and Zubin Karkaria – CEO of Kuoni Travel who will share their insights and industry experience in handling unforeseen challenges and rebuilding business operations. The group talk will focus on hospitality best practices, implementing a winning destination campaign and a recovery marketing plan with reference to case studies from Egypt, Bali and Taj Hotels.

An investor forum discussion consisting of a panel of Mr. Dillip Rajakariar (CEO of Minor Hotel Group), Malik Fernando (Hotelier), Krishan Balendra (Chairman of John Keells Holdings) and Shiromal Cooray (Chairman, Jetwing Hotels) which will be moderated by Murtaza Jafferjee (Managing Director – JB Securities Ltd). The conference will also feature speakers, Finn Taylor (Senior Vice President of Touring Shows – Cirque du Soleil) who will address the role of entertainment in destination rebuilding, Olivier Ponti (Vice President, Insight Forwardkeys) on Travel Trends and Airline Survey Studies followed by speakers, Damian Cook (Founder and CEO of E-Tourism Frontier) and Vesta Ratkeviciute (Sr. Regional Communications and Marketing Consultant – Southeast Asia Euromonitor International). The forum will draw to an end with a final panel discussion moderated by Oliver Martin.

The summit will have its first group talk on ‘Facing a Crisis’ with Puneet Chhatwal (Managing Director and CEO of IHCL), Dileep Mudadeniya (Vice President of John Keells Group and Head of Brand Marketing – Commenting on the FOT Summit 2019, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts), which will be moderated by Oliver Martin (TV Dileep Mudadeniya, Vice President John Keells Holdings, Head of Brand moderator, speaker and trainer).

Marketing Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts and CEO Cinnamon Life Mall stated: “As pioneers of this innovative industry event, Cinnamon Hotel & Resorts constantly strives to spearhead local and regional industry growth and progress. Developing a strong recovery strategy, strengthening our ability to address a crisis and act on it effectively and taking all the vibrancy and diversity that our nation has to offer as a destination, to the world are all key priorities in the coming months. This event will provide industry professionals and those who are passionate about business with the tools, tips, insights and understanding that they need to take our tourism industry forward, keeping sustainability in mind. We are a resilient nation and a country that has the ability to unite and come together to achieve positive change.

The support for Sri Lanka in the global industry has been a powerful reminder of how well-loved our country and our people are, and we are well-positioned to rise up and build up.”

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts marked its first-ever ‘Future of Tourism’ Summit in 2015 to commemorate World Tourism Day, and featured global experts exploring future tourism trends. FOT 2017 was centred on the theme of ‘Technology, Innovation and Authenticity’ with 13 globally renowned speakers addressing the conference and 400 members present.

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts is a chain comprising 14 distinct hotels and resorts located in key areas across Sri Lanka and the Maldives. The brand embodies a passion for inspired living and promises holistic and enhanced experiences that are tailor-made to suit the specific interests of travellers.

The Cinnamon brand focuses on delivering memorable holidays and getaways that deliver exceptional standards of service whilst showcasing the warmth and vibrancy of contemporary Sri Lankan hospitality.

Want to meet and engage with leaders in destination marketing? Book your space now: www.futureoftourism.com

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