Business
‘Unique, vast, uninterrupted view of the ocean at EKHO Surf, Bentota’
EKHO Surf, Bentota emerges from a transformative renovation, inviting travelers, holidaymakers, and ocean-lovers to savor its unique, vast, uninterrupted ocean view. Officially relaunched on December 19, 2023, the hotel narrates a story of resilience, evolution, and the timeless allure of Sri Lanka’s pristine coastline, perfectly timed for the peak of the December tourist season.
EKHO Surf combines golden sunsets, soft sand, and a sprawling lawn with well-appointed rooms and the freshest seafood, offering a truly authentic tropical escape.
Reflecting on the hotel’s journey, which began in 1972 and continues today as”EKHO Surf” and it’s journey has been a labor of love; a commitment to creating not just a hotel but an immersive experience that reflects the beauty and warmth of Sri Lanka. The relaunch symbolizes our dedication to offering a retreat that stands the test of time, inviting guests to create their own memories on Sri Lanka’s golden shores. Through the decades, we have written different chapters suitable for the times, and we are excited about the one we have just begun!”
In December 2023, EKHO Surf unveiled a fresh chapter in its storied history, marked by a comprehensive refurbishment. The hotel now stands as an icon of style, inviting guests to experience a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and coastal charm.
The contemporary lobby design and beach-inspired touches in the rooms evoke a sense of tradition while embracing modern sensibilities. This transformation goes beyond appearances, introducing enhanced amenities, wellness, and an oceanfront trendy bar is becoming Firebeach, a sister outlet at the Galle Face Hotel.
Established in 1972 as Lihiniya Surf, the hotel has undergone a remarkable journey, evolving with the ebb and flow of tourism trends. Spearheaded by the vision of Mr. Kumara Maliyarachchi, Chairman of the Associate Hotels Group, the inaugural government-owned tourist complex quickly became a cherished destination along Bentota beach, known as the longest stretch of beach on the southwest coast.
The hotel’s popularity soon surged, attracting those in search of the perfect fusion of sun, sea, and sand. Over the years, and subsequent to its parent company merging with Ceylon Hotels Corporation PLC, Lihiniya Surf transformed into ‘The Surf’ in 2012 and later evolved into EKHO Surf in 2016, encapsulating the essence of a renewed identity inspired by Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture.
The relaunch of EKHO Surf, Bentota was made official with a special event held on December 19, and the hotel is now welcoming cherished guests, both returning and new. The relaunch celebration was an eclectic fusion of tradition and modernity, mirroring the hotel’s commitment to providing an unforgettable tropical escape.
Guests can anticipate a captivating experience, alongside a kilometer-long stretch of pristine sandy beach, a sprawling lawn, well-appointed rooms, the freshest seafood, warmest hospitality, and the latest modern amenities, making for the quintessential Sri Lankan beach getaway.
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) proudly facilitated the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation’s participation at Drupa 2024, the world’s largest trade fair for the printing industry and technology. Held after an eight-year hiatus, Drupa 2024 was a landmark event, marking significant advancements and opportunities in the global printing industry.
AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in organising and supporting the delegation, which comprised 17 members from the Sri Lanka Association for Printers (SLAP), representing eight companies from the commercial, newspaper, stationery printing, and packaging industries. This pioneering effort by AHK Sri Lanka not only showcased the diverse capabilities of Sri Lanka’s printing sector but also facilitated vital bilateral discussions with key stakeholders from the German printing industry.
Business
Unveiling Ayugiri: Browns Hotels & Resorts sets the stage for a new era in luxury Ayurveda Wellness
In a captivating reimagining of luxury wellness tourism, Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the exquisite Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. This momentous occasion, celebrated amidst a vibrant and serene grand opening on the 6th of June, heralds a new chapter in the Ayurveda wellness tourism landscape in Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst 54 acres of unspoiled natural splendour, Ayugiri features 22 exclusive suites and stands out as the only luxury Ayurveda wellness resort in the country offering plunge pools in every room, rendering it truly one-of-a-kind.
The grand opening of Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort was an enchanting event, where guests were captivated by the melodies of flutists and violinists resonating through Sigiriya’s lush landscapes. As traditional drummers and dancers infused the air with vibrant energy, Browns Hotels & Resorts’ CEO, Eksath Wijeratne, Kotaro Katsuki, Acting Ambassador for the Embassy of Japan and General Manager, Buwaneka Bandara, unveiled the resort’s new logo, marking a significant moment witnessed by distinguished guests from the French Embassy, Ayurveda and wellness enthusiasts along with officials from the Sigiriya area, LOLC Holdings and Browns Group.
“Our strategic expansion into wellness tourism with Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya symbolises a significant milestone for Browns Hotels & Resorts. Wellness tourism has consistently outperformed the overall tourism industry for over a decade, reflecting a growing global interest in travel that goes beyond leisure to offer rejuvenation and holistic well-being. By integrating the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern luxury, we aim to set a new standard in luxury wellness tourism in Sri Lanka. Whether your goal is prevention, healing, or a deeper connection to inner harmony, Ayugiri offers a sanctuary for holistic well-being” stated Eksath Wijeratne.
Ayugiri encapsulates the essence of life, inspired by the lotus flower held by the graceful queens of the infamous Sigiriya frescoes. Just as the lotus emerges from the murky depths, untainted and serene,
Ayugiri invites guests on a journey of purity and rejuvenation, harmonised with a balance of mind, body and spirit, the essence of nature, echoes of culture and the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic healing.
HNB General Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s leading general insurance providers, has been honored as the Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024 by the prestigious Global Banking and Finance Review – UK.
The esteemed accolade underscores HNB General Insurance’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its outstanding performance in the field of bancassurance. Through dedication and hard work, the HNB General Insurance team has continuously endeavored to deliver innovative insurance solutions, cultivate strong relationships with banking partners, and provide unparalleled service to customers nationwide. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in the bancassurance business.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our team’s tireless efforts and dedication to delivering value-added insurance solutions and exceptional service through our bancassurance partnerships,” said Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNB General Insurance. “This recognition reaffirms our position as a trusted insurance provider in Sri Lanka and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in serving our customers and communities.”
