Life style
Blending Contemporary elegance with timeless charm
ITC Ratnadeepa
By Zanita Careem
ITC Rantnadipa, is a jewel in Colombo’s skyline, this iconic structure comprised of two stella towers that stand gracefully together presenting impeccable hospitality at both ITC Ratnadipa hotel and the luxurious Sapphire Residence. Connecting the two towers at a height is the first of its kind “Ahasa Sky Bridge, ,a one of a kind structure in South Asia.an architectural icon has become a globally recognised landmark in the city,if not the entire country. ITC Ratnadipa is the first international hotel of ITC,debuting in the capital city of Colombo.
This luxury destination draws inspiration from the national flower of Sri Lanka, the floating water lilly and other local artifacts,which is a recurrent motif all across the hotel The hotel has 352 room guest rooms suites and service apartments,adorned with private balconies and apartments. Besides unparalleled hospitality experiences, the hotel also offers best in class luxury residencies for discerning customers . The concept of Sky Mansions to South Asia, the Sapphire Residences,most luxurious and spacious apartments,and penthouses in the oceanfront location,adjacent to ITC Ratnadipa. These luxury apartments offer a delightful view of the ocean.
ITC hotels’ philosophy reflect the unique architecture,vibrant culture and grandeur of the region.
Colombo’s skyline was re- defined with the opening of this hotel offering unrivalled views of the Indian Oceans. Every aspect of the property offers a unique blend of local rusticity and splendour. The sprawling property symbolises the traditions of the island nation through its architectural design, culinary marvels and artistic expression work of Sri Lankan art maestros including that of Sanjaya Seneviratne, Prasad Hettiarachchi to Laki Seneviratne, Dominic Sansoni and more .
The hotel is also a gourmet destination in itself. It also offers a repertoire of local, national and global cuisine, served with style and panache. The majestic lounge and elegant bars are the perfect place to unwind and converse with a superb collection of global beverages.
ITC Ratnadipa marks the addition of the 16th luxury collection hotel in ITC hotel’s portfolio.
The globally-acclaimed dining selections feature Peshawri- an award-winning restaurant brand that brings alive the robust flavours of the North-West Frontier. Avartana, counted amongst Asia’s best restaurants, offers a sophisticated interpretation of cuisine mosaics. ITC Ratnadipa also houses the Indian Ocean Pavilion, an enchanting offering with stunning views of the Indian Ocean along with the finest buffet selection. Other cuisine brands include Yi Jing, featuring time-honoured recipes from across the diverse regions of China, the soon to open Islander that would offer the bold flavours celebrating the rich bounty of the sea, Silvertips, that celebrates Sri Lanka’s popular high tea culture, as well as Jala Anganaya, a blissful oasis featuring tropical fresh juices and healthy bites.
Recognising Sri Lanka’s immense tourism potential, ITC Ratnadipa also aims to be a fulcrum to attract MICE and inbound tourism in Sri Lanka. The state-of-the-art banquets and event spaces are perfect for hosting corporate gatherings, weddings, and social celebrations. The facilities include the stunning Sangam Ballroom, with 15,000 sq. ft. of pillarless banqueting space along with the Panorama Deck – the dazzling outdoor wedding venue.
This is an ideal wedding destination, the hotel offers incredible spaces and infinite possibles for curating a perfect wedding. These venues are tastefully adorned with colours and artefacts making it a perfect magnificent wedding venue.
A leading destination for holistic,health and wellness, The spa offers rejuvenating therapies,massages and wellness treatments for mind ,body and soul. The helipad would be another highlight at the complex. Be it for leisure or business,the helipad will provide access to private landing
This flagship hospitality icon of ITC was s inaugurated by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunewardena, Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha, Chairman and MD ITC Ltd, Sanjiv Puri
This grand opening will definitely create a benchmark for tourism and hospitality industry in Sri Lanka.
Pix by Darmasena Welipitiya
Institute of Hospitality Sri Lanka
The 32nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the UK-based Institute of Hospitality’s Sri Lanka Chapter was held recently at the Ramada Hotel Colombo,.The event provided an evening of camaraderie , reflection of the past and present achievements,setting new benchmarks for the future
The AGM had the presence of two distinguished guests, the Chief Guest Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, and the Guest of Honour British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Andrew Patrick. Their inspiring speeches were lauded by all hoteliers who were present at the occasion
A special thanks was extended to Robert Richardson, CEO of the Institute of Hospitality UK, along with his team, sponsors, committee members, and all attendees for making the event memorable.
Dr. Harsha Jayasingh, Past President of the Institute of Hospitality (UK) Sri Lanka Chapter, emphasised the Institute’s longstanding history and the strength of its Sri Lankan branch. “The Institute of Hospitality (IH) UK has a history of 86 years, and we are proud to be the Sri Lanka Branch. IH Sri Lanka is much stronger now with many members from all areas of the hospitality industry,” he stated.
Dr. Jayasingh highlighted the significant role of tourism in Sri Lanka’s economy,. He said tourism it is the third-largest source of revenue for the country. “Tourism accounts for about 13.3% of total foreign exchange earnings and employs 450,000 people directly and indirectly. The hospitality industry in this island of pearl holds tremendous potential for economic growth, job creations, and cultural exchange,” he added.
He also pointed out more women should be attracted to the industry and advocated for the use of technology in hospitality sector to attract the younger generation.
The newly appointed Chairman Ramesh Dassanayake spoke about the challenges faced by the industry, including the reluctance of youth to join the sector. . Dassanayake expressed concerns over the migration of staff between hotels and the overall ‘brain drain’ in the sector. ” We must maintain high standards in the hotel We must try to attract tourists to Sri Lanka, we must have with many facilities Hence, hotel schools and other professional institutions involved in skills development mustincrease their intakes,” he pointed out.
Chief Guest Sajith Premadasa emphasised the importance of eco tourism and said “We need to have an environmental policy related to tourism in place,” . .
The 32nd AGM of the Institute of Hospitality UK, Sri Lanka Chapter, was a testament to the strength and potential of Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry. The insights and commitments shared during the event set a new benchmark for the future.(ZC)
Pix by Thushara Attapathu
Life style
He recognizes human identity beyond boundaries of gender, race, nationality and religion.
Visit of Sri Gurudev to Sri Lanka
Humanitarian, spiritual leader and Global Ambassador of Peace Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar (Sri Gurudev) was in Sri Lanka on a three day tour on the invitation of the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Dinesh Gunewardene. Gurudev who inspired a wave of volunteerism and service to moot one of the largest volunteer-based organisations in the world – The Art of Living – visited the various projects under the aegis of the foundation and launched twelve vocational and technical centers around the island. He was accompanied by thousands of followers from Sri Lanka and around the world.
Gurudev who visited Sri Lanka for the sixth time also had a first day cover launched in honour of his visit. He is a strong proponent of spreading happiness, using the unique Sudarshan Kriya, yoga, meditation and practical wisdom to unite people, empower individuals and transform communities. His programmes provide techniques and tools to live a deeper, more joyous life, while his non-profit organisations recognize the human identity beyond the boundaries of gender, race, nationality and religion.
The Art of Living which has more than 30,000 teachers and over one million volunteers across 180 countries has touched in excess of five hundred million people around the world. CNN called it “Life Changing” and The Washington Post headlined it, “Fresh air to millions”.
In Trincomalee, Gurudev met with war victims and had a heartwarming engagement with the children from the children’s homes run by the Foundation. He also visited the Koneswara Temple in Trincomalee and graced the Kumbhabhishekam at Seetha ecogPnize the human identity beyond the boundaries of gender, race, nationality and religion. Amman temple at Nuwara Eliya. He held discussions with the trustees on the progress of the foundation’s social service projects, while also holding a special event – Ekamuthuwa – attended by a large number of dignitaries and his devotees from around the world.
His time with the Prime Minister was spent discussing the prospects of unity in diversity and uniting Sri Lanka by adding happiness into the formula of living. In addition he had discussions with the Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, prominent business stewards and civil society leaders.
by Zanita Careem
Envison your dream wedding day come to life at the Epitome Hotel, a prestigious city hotel in Kurunegala offering an unrivalled luxury rendors experience for weddings.
The venue is designed to embody opulence and luxury from all quarters for a spectacular wedding in kurunegala,Thier ballroom is the largest banquet facility in Sri Lanka It can be divided into six luxurious pillarless wedding halls on the ground floor and 25pax smaller banquet halls.
It can be easily named as a five star heaven in the heart of the city contributing to a myriad of immense experiences tailored to inspire and delight wedding experiences.
From opulent décor set up to exquisite table decor, lavish food, every detail is meticulously curated to spark your imagination and ignite creativity for a perfect wedding. The previous prestigious wedding shows season one and season two attracted large crowds
were unique events which gave the wedding vendors and potential clients had an opportunity to connect and interact with each other. Beyond being a showcase it was a chance for the wedding vendors to unite and contribute to the vibrancy of the wedding industry. The wedding show covered all area of the bridal industry providing a comprehensive variety of bridal supplies from Sri lanka and became the most popular bridal exhibitions in Kurunegala.This bridal exhibitions allowed brides and grooms to experience first hand the products and services available from suppliers in Sri Lanka
These wedding shows held at The Epitome created a benchmark and gave an opportunity for vendors to create connections to the utmost satisfaction said Harshan Lakshita Executive Director. of the magnificent Hotel
Our wedding shows featured experts and professionals in every field‘ It covered all areas of the bridal industry provided a comprehensive variety of bridal supplies from Sri lanka and became most popular bridal exhibition in this region.We are always open to everyone to join us at our wedding shows in the future. It is an opportunity to discover the incredible talent within our local wedding and bridal vendors to make meaningful relationships and plan thier special day at our breathtaking hotel The Epitome said General Manager Kavinda Caldera
The Epitome Hotel’s bridal show which will be held end of June will buzz with great ideas,advice and inspiration for all those who plan thier dream wedding
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The Hotel Epitome’s Wedding Season 3 will marked excellence, celebration and inspiration for those in the wedding industry. The exhibition halls will resonate with ideas on exquisite bridal wear to decor, florists , photography etc and showshowcase the rich tapestry of talent within the local wedding industry. .
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