Revamped ‘The Sands’ in Kalutara invites discerning holidaymakers

By Avanti Samarasekara

With over three decades in the hotels industry, diversified conglomerate, Aitken Spence recently reopened the previously named Ramada Resort, now refurbished as The Sands by Aitken Spence Hotels.

Highlighting the hotel’s beach front location, five acre landscaped garden and inviting surf bring together Sri Lanka’s renown hospitality amid the luxury of a four-star resort. The Sands is located in Kalutara, and was refurbished in a few mere months.

However, the difference is noteworthy, with many new additions and revamps.

The resort currently consists of 109 rooms, with an objective of completing 200 rooms by end 2012. Among the standard and deluxe rooms, and suites, what captured my attention were the ‘family rooms’.

According to the hotel’s Director, Niran Ratwatte, these are slightly larger rooms, consisting of up to four beds, which can accommodate a whole family comfortably.

Among its latest additions are The Sands’ four restaurants, two bars, a nightclub and a spa. Three of the four restaurants – with its appropriately sea-related names – are a part of a unique ‘dine around’ concept, introduced to Sri Lanka for the first time.

As explained by Ratwatte, the ‘dine around’ concept gives patrons the flexibility to enjoy their meals (lunch and dinner) at the restaurant of their preference. The fourth restaurant provides an à la carte menu, enabling guests to order as they please.

Likewise, the two bars, the Sands Bar and the Corals Bar, and the Currents nightclub are also aptly named to highlight the coastline location of the hotel. The Diviyan Spa, also located on the hotel premises, is operated by Balinese experts to ensure a truly rejuvenating experience.

In addition to these facilities, the hotel also markets its banquet halls, which are ideal for destination weddings, conferences and office or school outings. Having already hosted six weddings in its one month of operation, Ratwatte explains about several packages that are available to those interested in hosting such functions at The Sands.

The Hotel mainly hopes to cater mainly to foreign travellers, but also Sri Lankans looking to enjoy a truly tranquil holiday every now and then. Full-board guests at the Hotel are served pre-paid packages, where the total cost is paid up-front, with guests not having to worry about payments for the rest of their holiday, but enjoy the various amenities on offer (premier drinks are not included in this package).

Sixty per cent of The Sands’ staff is from the vicinity of the Hotel, which others are from neighbouring towns. The total workforce consists of 200 staff members and 20 executives, all combined to offer service excellence.

If it is a relaxed, serene and rejuvenating holiday that you require, be sure to visit The Sands!