Ceylon Continental to dazzle New Year’s Eve like never before

By Gayani Perera

The Ceylon Continental Hotel will be in the limelight this year on New Year’s Eve, where it will be hosting two of the most sensational events.

The events are the majestic ‘Continental Flight 2011’ at the Sapphire Ballroom and the exclusive ‘Hush!’ which will be held at the hotel’s rooftop Cat’s Eye Ballroom.

With two of the hottest events in town scheduled to stir up the New Year in the pipeline, the hotel has positioned itself as the centerpiece of attraction in the hospitality industry.

The hotel has gone out of its way this New Year’s Eve where guests will be offered the spectacular opportunity to ring in the New Year in grand style.

Be prepared to dance the night away at the ‘Continental Flight 2011,’ where the entire hotel venue will experience a transformation like never before complete will intricate and glistening décor.

Staying true to its title, this grand finale of the year will be representing all seven continents where guests will be taken on an epicurean journey around the world.

This sensational event comes complete with a gala dinner and breakfast which will be held where one could move and shake to the captivating Continental rhythms of the ‘Kings’ and ‘Doctor’ bands.

Both the ‘King with Chandralal’ and ‘Doctor’ have reached the zenith of popularity in Colombo. The ‘Kings’ which is a leading band that has gained popularity through dances will be led by Chandral Fonseka. The band’s repertoire will appeal to fans of English and Sinhala favourites from the ’70s to that of the contemporary times.

‘Doctor’ is a five piece band led by mainstream pop artiste Lanthra Perera, son of the bass guitarist of legendary Gypsies. The band’s vast selection of music for this special night will include pop, disco, oldies and baila tracks.

Daily FT spoke to Upul Gamage, Director/General Manager of Ceylon Continental Hotel, to find out more about what the hotel has in store for its 31st night celebrations.

“‘The Continental Flight 2011’ 31st night dinner dance is better termed as your passport to travel the world where in which the entire night takes on the theme of an aircraft flight for food and music. This exclusive event will be taking off at the Sapphire Ballroom and has been organised in such a manner where sounds, background and lighting will provide you with an actual flying experience. To add to this exceptional night our dress code will be ‘Dressed to Fly’. Guests will have the unique opportunity of being ushered in by airline hostesses and stewards. We will be taking you to the seven continents to savour their flavours and traditions on New Year’s Eve where you will not even have to pack your bags,” said Gamage.

During the Continental Flight, your ticket, which has been designed to resemble an airline ticket, could win you surprising gifts from the raffle draw which has been organised specially for the guests. When you purchase 20 tickets at once, you will automatically be entitled for an upgrade on your gift.

“Our second 31st night offering will take place in the Continental’s highest ballroom, the Cat’s Eye. This venue promises intimacy and style and in addition to this the event comes to life with an incomparably breathtaking view of the city skyline and ocean. This exclusive finale event named ‘Hush!’ includes a dual set menu and buffet dinner concept limited to just 60 couples and is definitely the best fine dining dinner dance to grace the city of Colombo,” said Gamage.

“This event also includes a lavish breakfast on 1 January. This feast will showcase our chef’s finest creations the best of table deals and much more. Guests will also enjoy the option of staying over at the hotel or be chauffeur-driven back home,” he added.

Nothing can replace the splendorous view of the ‘Hush!’ venue. This is the ultimate New Year’s choice for couples to enjoy the lit-up skyline, tranquil ocean and the sensational view of the harbour and coastal areas.

During New Year’s Eve at ‘Hush!’ guests will be treated to a fabulous firework display that will surround the hotel from every direction, where one will be able to witness the city of Colombo ushering in the New Year.

Versatile female vocalist Sonali will perform at the event along with Ranil Rodrigo as ‘Sonali and Champagne’. The night’s entertainment will also include a belly dance act and nonstop music from Eugene who will be specially flown in from Australia to grace this very special occasion.

The music for this event will feature popular classics from the ’70s and ’80s which will keep guests entertained till dawn where you can ballroom dance the night away to your heart’s content.

Each event will host exciting prizes and entertainment including raffle draws with airline tickets to be won. Continental Flight 2011 will be sponsored by Oman Air and the travel partner of the Exclusive Hush is Qatar Airways. Bulk purchase benefits and special discounts are also available to groups and parties that book early.

So if you are wondering how to celebrate New Year’s Eve in a manner you will never forget, visit the Ceylon Continental Hotel and become a part of the one-of-a-kind momentous seasonal memories that will last forever.

For more information on how you can take advantage of the New Year’s Eve packages on offer, please call 242 1221 or visit www.ceyloncontinental.com.