Life style
Nyne Hotels: Redefining Hospitality with an All-Encompassing Sensory Experience
by Zanita Careem
Nayantara Fonseka, a successful entrepreneur, designer and interior decorator, affectionately known as Taru, has unveiled Nyne Hotels, creating a benchmark in hospitality. Having a keen eye for design and detailing,
she has turned her hotels into spaces where guests indulged in an experience, luxury and comfort throughout their stay. Her collection of luxury boutique hotels, has sophisticated interiors, decorative themes and immaculate service. An art collector, design afficionado and a creative power house, no doubt she claimed that she in the pioneer of boutique hotels in Sri Lanka that are architecturally unique.
Nayantara has introduced a fresh perspective to the world of hospitality. This visionary entrepreneur have re-define luxury, weaving her unique stories and experiences into the fabric of her properties. Why the change of name? She replied, it is now time to move on Nyne hotels is my new passion, she told the Sunday Island at the launch of Nyne. . With plans to open three more properties in Bentota 2024. Nyne hotels will be a brand that focuses on providing a holistic sensory experience for guests.
Nayantara Fonseka (Taru), launches Nyne Hotels, marking a new chapter in hospitality excellence and creativity. This transition isn’t merely a name change; it signifies the brand’s commitment to providing unparalleled experiences that engage with all nine senses (vision, hearing, smell, taste, touch, balance, intuition, time, and presence).
The significance of the number nine is rooted in completeness and culmination: at Nyne Hotels, it represents the pinnacle of our dedication to crafting extraordinary moments for our guests, where senses are indulged and experiences are transformative. “Our journey with Nyne Hotels is a testament to our passion for excellence and innovation in hospitality,” said Nayantara Fonseka , the founder and chairperson of Nyne Hotels. “We believe in going beyond the ordinary to create experiences that leave a lasting impression on our guests.”
Nyne Hotels isn’t just about accommodation; it’s about curating sensory journeys that revitalise the soul. From visually captivating designs to the aroma of exotic scents, from the melody of nature’s symphony to the tantalising flavours of culinary delights, Nyne Hotels invites guests on a voyage of discovery. “Our goal is to engage not just the traditional senses, but all nine senses,”. “We want our guests to experience their holiday in a way they’ve never imagined, to be fully present and immersed in the moment.”
The Nyne Hotels website www.nynehotels.com serves as a portal to this sensory world, inviting guests to explore our unique offerings and tailor their experiences to their preferences. From tranquil retreats to vibrant cultural hubs, each Nyne Hotels property offers a distinct ambience that celebrates local heritage and artistry.
Nayantara Fonseka
Lake Lodge in Colombo is a contemporary green oasis, offering guests a quiet neighbourhood escape from the bustling city streets. Meanwhile, Rock Villa in Bentota embodies understated luxury, with its tropical bungalow architecture and sprawling gardens. The Muse, also in Bentota, exudes timeless style, while Leela Walauwwa in Induruwa evokes the charm of a bygone era. Landesi, which means ‘of Dutch origin’ in Sinhala, is a manor house set in the 17th-century Galle Fort, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Mayur Lodge – Yala is a hidden gem nestled amidst the ‘Chena’ farming community, and offers a contemporary villa in a jungle environment, on the outskirts of the famed safari destination, Yala National Park.
“Our properties are more than just hotels; they are reflections of their destination,”. “Each property tells a story, weaving together elements of local history, culture, and art to create an authentic experience for our guests. We are proud to say that we will be adding further properties to our portfolio by the end of 2024, including three in Bentota.”
At Nyne Hotels, art is more than decoration; it’s an integral part of the guest experience. From paintings and sculptures to installations and performances, art is woven into the fabric of each property, inviting guests to engage with their surroundings in new and unexpected ways. “Being passinate about creating, I understand the power of art to evoke emotion and inspire imagination,”. “That’s why we’re committed to showcasing local talent and supporting the arts in all its forms.”
In addition to its commitment to sensory indulgence and artistic expression, Nyne Hotels is dedicated to sustainability and social responsibility. From eco-friendly practices to community engagement initiatives, Nyne Hotels strives to make a positive impact on the world around it. “As stewards of the environment and champions of local communities, we believe in leaving a legacy that extends beyond our boundries,”. “By embracing sustainability and social responsibility, we can create a brighter future for generations to come.”
As Nyne Hotels continues to expand its portfolio, with new properties set to open in the coming year, the brand remains committed to its core values of excellence, creativity, and authenticity. From secluded retreats to vibrant urban escapes, Nyne Hotels welcomes guests on a journey of discovery, teaming with opportunities to engage their senses and nourish their souls. For more information and bookings, visit www.nynehotels.com.
Lake Lodge – Colombo: A Contemporary Retreat in the City
Secluded from the buzzing streets of Colombo, Lake Lodge is imbued with a heritage tracing back to 1967, the country’s first registered and officially recognised ‘Guest House’, the words used back then to describe this genre. . Lake Lodge is a welcome respite from the bustling city with ten attentively composed rooms. Expect top-tier service and privacy at all times. Dining at Table by Nyne promises a unique culinary journey, with a marriage of Sri Lankan and international cuisine that attracts a loyal local and cosmopolitan fanbase of diners.
Meanwhile, the discreet gallery of public and private spaces within the Lake Lodge property offers a feast for the eyes, showcasing over 50 works of art by renowned artists, including Priyantha Udagedara and Kingsley Gunatillake.
Rock Villa Pool and Dining Pavilion
Rock Villa– Bentota: Tropical Bungalow by the Sea Surrounded by three acres of frangipani and meticulous rows of coconut trees, Rock Villa’s serene sanctuary encompasses a 180-year-old Walauwwa, the name given to ancestral heritage homes. The oft-imitated welcome popsicle, our blend of fresh mint and tangy passionfruit, sets the tone for an indulgent stay where every detail matters.
Filled with Sri Lankan collectables and a palette of white, beige and pops of turquoise, Rock Villa’s sprawling property is a laid-back tropical indulgence. Laze in an unspoiled beach beyond the single-track railway line, dip in one of the azure-blue pools, meander through the cooling mangroves, enter bliss in the spa or retreat into one of nine varied, well-appointed rooms.
Artfully-plated gastronomy and antique hand-carved wooden trellises for discretion elevate your stay from start to finish. An astounding display of over 90 pieces of work by celebrated local artists grace the walls of this silent art exposition.
The Muse – Bentota:Tranquil Seclusion with Artistic Flair
Tranquil and captivating, The Muse is where generous Sri Lankan hospitality enters absolute contentment. With nine divinely comfortable rooms and breezy open-plan living, it promises picture-postcard corners for an unforgettable family staycation or a quiet hideaway for two.
In this one-of-a-kind escape, step over the single gauge railway track and stroll across the powder-soft sea sand, feel quietness amongst mangroves, dip in the aquamarine pool or deep-dive into tantalising food.
Leela Walauwwa bedroom
Leela Walauwwa– Induruwa: A Heritage Haven of Serenity
Narrow winding roads snake through dense foliage to transport you to this rural manor house dating back two centuries. Its charming heritage promises to entice with colonial architecture, secret gardens and a gazebo made for meditation or reflection. Antique four poster beds in four supremely comfortable rooms and intricately-carved furniture give you more than a hint of the splendour of its past, immaculately restored to modern comfort.
Do take the opportunity of an art class led by the Villa Guardian, a well-known artist, to release the creativity in you. You’ll find it effortless, with the numerous works of art and sculpture surrounding you.
.Mayur Lodge – Yala: A Hidden Gem Within Nature
Off the beaten track, hidden away in the rural hinterlands on the outskirts of Yala National Park, Mayur Lodge is a four-acre retreat surrounded by nature. You will enjoy frequent sightings of the abundant birdlife and foraging peacocks and peahens after whom this lodge is aptly named: Mayur means peacock in Sanskrit.
. Landesi – Galle:A Stately Retreat Steeped in History
Landesi is Sinhala for ‘of Dutch origin’. Fitting, as this manor house graces the vicinity of a fort fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. This stately house was designed and built by renowned architect Ashley de Vos, a conservationist of the Galle Fort who expertly retained the classic features of the period.
Inside, art by famous local artists including Laki Senanayake and several lithographs by Donald Friend enhance this house’s unique and special character. All around outside, are the feats of the mastery of culture and history to engage with.
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. .
