Post-war tourism bullish Auro Holdings invests in to the future

In the wave of renewed local and international investment in Sri Lanka largely driven by the tourism sector, Auro Holdings Ltd is investing in two properties.

The first property, Colombo Courtyard is situated in Colombo 03 and is to open in February 2012, whilst the second property Ranna212 is on the deep southern coast in Ranna, Tangalle and is already welcoming its first guests.

Auro Holdings Managing Director Arun Thapar, holds business interests spread across a range of industries from leading apparel firms in Singapore and Sri Lanka to hotels in the Maldives and Canada.

He is also the founder of the first free trilingual Montessori school in Lun-ugamvehera, Hambantota - “Bridge to Peace”, that begun operations in the immediate aftermath of the devastating Tsunami. This school is operated in association with LPF Academy, Dehiwela and Ratmalana where Thapar has invested to promote education in all three languages.

Thapar takes on the new projects in Sri Lanka with great enthusiasm, “The Tourism industry can finally reap the benefits of the islands natural, historical and cultural beauty. There is so much untapped potential.”

The 33 key boutique hotel in Colombo situated at Alfred House Avenue, has an initial investment of USD 5 million whilst the property in Ranna, Tangalle is a 124 key property with an investment in excess of USD 15 million. Thapar believes that this is a crucial time for the hotel industry and he is confident of the return on the significant investment outlay.

Designed by environmental architect Sunela Jayawardene who is renowned for her ability to create hotels that let you be one with nature, Colombo Courtyard is crafted around the concept of a series of open spaces, conscious lighting patterns and the use of recycled elements in its artful décor.  With a choice of two unit suites equipped with graceful luxuries and modern facilities including 42 inch LED screens and iMac computers, as well as Deluxe rooms with heightened comfort features, Colombo Courtyard will breath freshness into the city’s accommodation options.  The hotel is replete with 3 varied dining outlets including “Cloud Café” - a rooftop café with a view of the city skyline by night and “The Loft” - an industrially-styled bar. The hotel also offers a plunge pool, jacuzzi and library.   

Ranna212, Tangalle is spread across 11 acres of land with over 150 meters beach frontage in what is arguably Sri Lanka’s finest stretch of coast along the south. The extent of land gives liberty to winding walkways amidst private clusters of rooms and public areas. The all day dining restaurant “Senses” and specialty barbeque outlet “Flame” are sure to delight travelers whilst the hotels two bars are designed to let you enjoy the oceans bliss. A Spa with trained therapists and a pool are not only what make this a great resort hotel.  

The hotels closeness to many locations including the world heritage city of Galle, whale watching sites of Mirissa, the national park in Yala and the religious sites of Kataragama make Ranna212 the ideal location for excursions. In addition the Sooriyawewa International Cricket Stadium, the port in Hambantota and the Mattala International airport are also in very close proximity.

“Our initial month of operations at Ranna212 has already brought an influx of Eastern European and other clientele who have generated very encouraging feedback on the hotels international standards of operation and superior service levels” Thapar smilingly adds.

Auro Holdings is certain of their commitment to the tourism sector in Sri Lanka. In addition to Colombo Courtyard and Ranna212, planning is underway for three further properties to be built in Ahungalla, Kalpitiya and Vakarai. Arun Thapar also reiterated the Groups pledge toward being a key player in the tourism industry in the future.