Acquisitions & Hotel Openings

John Keells Hotels Heralds the Arrival of Chaaya Blu Trincomalee in May

Colombo, Sri Lanka - March 15, 2010 - The hotel property formerly known as Club Oceanic Trincomalee, a member of the John Keells Hotels Group is scheduled to reopen in May 2010 with a new and improved ambience as Chaaya Blu Trincomalee. Hotel operations have ceased in order to make way for the complete refurbishment and expansion plan which is currently underway. Under the watchful eye of renowned architect Channa Daswatte, Club Oceanic Trincomalee is to undergo a transformation which promises a fresh theme and a vibrant new appearance that will enchant its guests. The evocative designs and captivating architecture will blend in with the surroundings of Sri Lanka’s untouched east coast.

Located on the north eastern corner of the island, Trincomalee is home to the fifth largest natural harbour in the world. In recent times this region has been developing at a rapid rate and is focusing on capitalizing on its magnificent location, gorgeous beaches and crystal clear waters which have the potential to make Trincomalee another dream destination in Sri Lanka.

The John Keells Hotels Group has set aside a sum of Rs. 450 million for this project which will increase the hotel’s room capacity from 56 to 80. Joining the Chaaya Resorts and Hotels circle, Club Oceanic Trincomalee is to garland its grand reopening with its new name, Chaaya Blu Trincomalee. Nestled on a location which provides access to all the unique features of the area including the azure waters and sun kissed beaches of Uppuveli, Chaaya Blu Trincomalee is to offer a perfect escape for those in search of serenity. Travelers will also be able to engage in a variety of activities such as scuba diving, surfing, deep sea fishing, whale and dolphin watching while in Trincomalee.

The Executive Vice President of the John Keells Hotels Group and Sector Head for Sri Lanka Resorts Mr. Jayantissa Kehelpannala stated “In such a short time since the dawn of peace in Sri Lanka, the east coast has emerged strongly as the country’s new tourism destination. Trincomalee in particular is becoming increasingly accessible to local and foreign holiday-makers with the development of the road network, allowing them to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli, some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the country and a host of other activities including yachting, angling and whale watching. ‘Blu’ is as sea-farers would refer to the ocean and Chaaya Blu Trincomalee will be pledged to promoting the rich offerings of the seas of Trinco to the world,” he added.

Offering his views on the expansion project, Mr. Ajit Gunewardene, Deputy Chairman John Keells Holdings and President of the Leisure Group stated “Having been involved in Sri Lankan tourism as a group for over 35 years, we are excited and enthused by the emergence of east-coast tourism. We believe that Trincomalee has the potential to become one of the most sought-after destinations in the country and Chaaya Blu Trincomalee with its new retro-chic look will bridge the present deficit for quality 4-star accommodation. The John Keells Hotels Group is proud to launch one of the first development projects towards promoting east-coast tourism. This will be a first of many investments in the resort sector in strategic locations around the country,” he added.

Adding to the wide range of services offered to the modern traveler, John Keells Hotels Group provides a list of ready made holiday packages and an interactive holiday planner in the website, www.johnkeellshotels.com. The early bird may seek to make the best of the Chaaya Blu introductory web prices by visiting the site. As one of the 4-star Sri Lanka hotels Chaaya Blu Trincomalee will offer easy access to the dazzling beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli. Designed to meet the need for quality Trincomalee hotels in the area, Chaaya Blu Trincomalee with its new look and improved accommodation options will no doubt win the hearts of many a traveler.

Sign up to receive more articles like this on the Hotel Newswire Daily Digest eNewsletter.


Receive the free Daily Digest
Coming Up In The March Online Hotel Business Review

"Hotel Business Review offers weekly articles for hotel management and operation and discussion on emerging growth markets."
Feature Focus
Hotel Human Resources: The Biggest Challenges
The economic challenges of the past four years have led many hotel companies to re-examine the ways in which they do business and how they deploy talent. In many cases, the work did not go away and fewer people were left to carry on the tasks that had previously been shared among many. As we work our way out of the recession and look forward to a healthier economic environment, there is an understanding that despite recovering business levels, we may never see the return of former staffing levels. This "new norm" of operating with leaner teams has led Human Resources professionals and people managers to look at career development and growth opportunities in a new light. The March Hotel Business Review will take a look at some of the strategies being used by successful hotel brands, and techniques human resource directors are currently exploring.
INSIGHTS FOR INDUSTRY LEADERS BY INDUSTRY LEADERS
"The Four Habits of Highly Effective Human Resources"
By James Bermingham, Vice President, Montage Hotels
"Embassy Suites 'The Circle of Leadership"
By Darci Riesenhuber, Director of Brand Culture, Embassy Suites Hotels
"Applying Consumer Marketing Best Practices to Employee Loyalty"
By Fred Bendana, Executive Director Client Services, Maritz Loyalty & Motivation
"How Incentives are Changing to Keep Existing Staff Motivated?"
By Jim Houran, Partner, HVS Executive Search
PLUS: Mobile Technology - Attracting & Retaining Top Talent - Education - Employee Engagement - Employment Claims & Litigation - Employment Contracts - HR Management.