Pandanus Beach Resort sparks new wave in Sri Lankan hospitality

Monday, 2 June 2014 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector welcomed its newest entrant with the launch of Pandanus Beach Resort and Spa in Induruwa. The luxurious property was inaugurated by President Mahinda Rajapakse at a glittering event on 29 May. The sprawling five-storey, 96 room resort is set beside a secluded 300-metre stretch of pristine beach along Sri Lanka’s Southern coast. It is nestled amongst a lush, natural growth of Pandanus trees, locally referred to as ‘Wetakeiya,’ from which it derives its name. Aesthetically designed by renowned architect Vinod Jayasinghe, all guest areas, including every room, restaurant, bar and pool, offer a refreshing view of the Indian Ocean. The brand new resort bears five star facilities and was constructed on an investment of over LKR 2 billion.

Jointly owned by Thilakawardhana Group of Companies and Ever Green Plantation Management Company in equal shares, the property was developed with the vision of bringing global acclaim to tourism in Sri Lanka through personalised attention, uncompromising quality, relentless commitment and genuine Sri Lankan hospitality. Joint Managing Directors, Aruna De Silva and Sunil Thilakawardhana, are reputed entrepreneurs in the tea production and textiles industries respectively. The opening ceremony of the Pandanus Beach Resort and Spa was executed in keeping with this vision for excellence. The management pulled out all the stops, treating a selection of high profile invitees in attendance to an evening of entertainment and culinary indulgence. An aerial artist, flown down exclusively for the event, had the audience spellbound with gravity-defying contortions performed mid-air followed by an aqua dance performance in the resort’s pool. Performances by Sri Lankan celebrities Natasha Rathnayake, Randhir, Muddrika Dance Studio and a custom choreographed dance by the Budawatta Dance Troupe were a testament to the wealth of talent within Sri Lanka’s vibrant entertainment industry.

“The Sri Lankan hospitality landscape has been progressing rapidly since the dawn of peace and we are very excited to play an active role in the country’s progress. Pandanus Beach Resort and Spa is the type of place that even the most discerning traveler will connect with instantly. The feedback has been so positive, we are already planning our next phase of development and hope to add on more luxury rooms and a beach restaurant soon,” enthused Pandanus Beach Resort and Spa General Manager Anil Perera. Perera brings over 35 years industry experience in Sri Lanka and abroad. Having specialised in F&B, his experience extends to serving as Executive Chef and over 25 years in general management. Five room categories accommodate varying needs of guests, offering the choice of Superior Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, Junior Suites, Suites or a grand Presidential Suite. All rooms are tastefully furnished in keeping with the landscape of the environment and offer a terrace or balcony overlooking the sea, complimentary WiFi which is available throughout the hotel, in room tea and coffee facilities, flat screen TVs with satellite channels, individual safes, rain showers as well as several other amenities. Deluxe Rooms and Suites contain private Jacuzzis with a scenic ocean view and a private lounge area.

The 2,500 square foot Presidential Suite is the epitome of luxury with a large private plunge pool with a view of the ocean, two private rooms with their own terraced view of the ocean, an in room dining area, lounge and private Jacuzzi. Ground level rooms open out to a breathtaking 150 foot swimming pool which stretches parallel to the ocean. Shallow, shaded alcoves within the pool provide tranquil spaces to unwind, while children can enjoy the water in their own child-friendly pool nearby. A highly skilled team of chefs with local and international experience serves a cross-section of cuisines at the resort’s Main Restaurant, a romantic setting on the beach, or in the privacy of guests’ rooms. Guests may dine in the comfort of the air-conditioned interior of the restaurant or enjoy the natural breeze of the ocean, engulfed in the exquisite gastronomy on offer. Perched on the rooftop is Sky Bar, a unique rooftop bar that provides an unfettered view of the ocean as guests indulge in drinks under the stars. Alternatively, guests may settle in at the lobby bar for drinks or enjoy the evening’s entertainment. Accentuating its idyllic surroundings, the Pandanus Wellness Spa, managed by Ariana Spas offers a variety of the revitalising treatments administered by internationally and locally experienced therapists. A rejuvenating work out at the resort’s state of art gymnasium promises to keep even the devoted health buff gratified. Plans are in place to invest in a second luxury hotel which will offer guests a close to nature experience. Discussions are underway with foreign investors and construction is expected to commence before the end of the year.