Aban’s pioneering hospitality foray debuts In Colombo

Courtyard by Marriott, overlooking Colombo’s Beira Lake from Sir. James Pieris Mawatha (previously General’s Lake Road), the newest entrant to Colombo’s luxury hotel scene and the Abans Group’s first foray into the hospitality industry, was formally commissioned a few days ago.

Part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 brands, it is the first Courtyard to open in Sri Lanka. Located at the heart of the city’s central business district adjacent to the Colombo City Centre Mall, Courtyard by Marriott Colombo is set to offer a sophisticated yet comfortable environment for guests as they explore the city.

The 164-room hotel is headed by an expatriate general manager, Elton Hurtis, who has been here for three years heading Marriot Weligama, an experience he said he enjoyed very much.

“We are delighted to debut Courtyard by Marriott in Sri Lanka …….,” said Ranju Alex, Area Vice President – South Asia, Marriott International. “The opening of Courtyard by Marriott Colombo marks Marriott Bonvoy’s third property in Sri Lanka, further complementing our commitment to growth in the region and accommodating different types of travellers visiting this beautiful destination.”

The hotel features three distinct dining venues including Beira Kitchen, an all-day dining restaurant offering local delicacies and international cuisines. At Tito’s café, guests can start their day with freshly baked bread, coffee or tea and The Lounge provides a relaxing atmosphere with light beverages and assorted bites.

The hotel is equipped with state-of-the-art banqueting facilities for hosting events and gatherings of varied sizes. Its indoor meeting spaces are spread over an area of 14,500 sq. ft and are suited to accommodate both large and intimate gatherings. Recreational facilities at the hotel include a well-equipped 24-hour fitness center and an outdoor swimming pool above ground level.

Within a few days of its launch, there was at least one corporate event hosted at the hotel on Tuesday when a press lunch was hosted. The management declined to discuss opening time occupancy but said “we’re pretty popular with the corporate sector.”

“I am delighted to welcome guests to an international hotel experience in Sri Lanka with the opening of the Courtyard by Marriott Colombo,” said Elton Hurtis, General Manager of the hotel. “Sri Lanka has plenty to offer, from golden sandy beaches and exotic wildlife to UNESCO world heritage sites and rich biodiversity. We offer a prime location for business or leisure travel – or a blend of both – and look forward to providing excellent comfort, functionality, and guest services to both national and international travellers.”