Trans Asia, Colombo

King's Court in immaculate dressing

Prasad Abu Bakr

COLOMBO: The Trans Asia Colombo as a step towards its major refurbishment programme under way re-dressed and transformed its popular banquet venue King's Court as a pristine location bathed in white, ivory and amber with an highlighting line of gold.

Resident Manager of the hotel Roshan Gurusinghe announced that they have incurred a sum of one hundred and twenty million Rupees to give the ballroom its present facelift. The King's Court which had seen many banquets of colossal proportions in the past as one mega size venue has been designed in a manner which enables the hotel to accommodate more than one event at a time within the King's Court.

Upon entering King's Court in its present setting one step into elegant surroundings. The cocktail lounge is set with rich drapery against couches and lounge chairs to accommodate guests in the pre-functional area which can be effectively sealed off from the main banquet hall.

'It all depends on the kind of event or events that will be taking place' said Gurusinghe further stressing that all three partitions which will seal off one event from the other is totally sound proof.

The lighting in form of exquisitely designed spanish style overhead lamps are teamed with similar wall fixtures that blend with oval shaped mirrors framed in bronze and gold spaced out around the ballroom. A richly carpeted floor sits in opaque tones against the round table dinner setting.

This first chapter of the overall refurbishment was done by the Singaporean Company which was also responsible for the successful re-decorating effort that was seen recently at the Colombo Plaza, which is another city hotel acquired by John Keells.

It was further revealed at the press conference which preceded cocktails followed by dinner in the event of familiarising the press and other guests as an introductory measure to this newly decorated King's Court.

The menu served to guests that evening was a preamble to the general menu which will be served at the King's Court at special functions. The menu in general has a variety of choices depending on the clients' decision.

As a starter we were served Smoked supreme of chicken and marinated prawns on Asian mango salad followed by Minted roast tomato soup with herb waffles.

As the main course Pan seared baby seer and crab meat on sweet corn and green pea's hash pink grape fruit and chablis infusion was served with a dessert of Nougat souffle glace with grilled peaches on kahlua cream. Later hand made chocolates were served followed by coffee.

Director of Sales and Marketing Terence Fernando briefing the guests at dinner stated that the next stages of refurbishment involves the public areas and the bedrooms which will be carried out in two or three segments. "The overall re-decorating programme is due to be completed by October this year," he concluded.

In its new dressing the King's Court has acquired glorified status to its property, the Trans Asia, where it has been located for over 25 years. With its regal reference as the court of the kings Trans Asia's Grand ballroom has served probably thousands of guests since its inception.

It has remained in its royal trimmings for long enough to call for a glimmering change and the new administrators have listened to its need and obliged, adding to it sophistication and style.

First tour group from Slovenia visits Lanka

COLOMBO: The first group of tourists to visit Sri Lanka from Slovenia, arrived last week. The group was brought in by Bernard Tours and Travels (Pvt) Ltd.

They were on a 13-day tour of Sri Lanka, during which they visited many places of tourist interest, including the cultural triangle, the hill country, wildlife, and other historical places in Sri Lanka.

This is the first group of tourists to visit Sri Lanka from Slovenia, Managing Director, Bernard Tours and Travels (Pvt) Ltd., Anjelo Mendis said.

Anjelo was instrumental in bringing this group of tourists from Slovenia to Sri Lanka.

Leader of the group Senad Osmanaj said that Sri Lanka was such a beautiful country, blessed with all the natural beauty and potential for a perfect holiday. Osmanaj assured Bernard Tours that he will bring in tourists from Slovenia on a regular basis to Sri Lanka.

The Slovenian group was welcomed by Anjelo Mendis amidst 'raban pada' (cultural drums) and Kandyan dancers.

Special wedding packages from Taj Airport Garden

SEEDUWA: Taj Airport Garden hotel, Seeduwa is offering special discounted packages for weddings to popularize their most modern "Sigiri" and "Harbour Bar" banquet halls.

"The 'Sigiri' hall can accommodate up to 300 guests while the 'Harbour Bar' can accommodate around 150 guests, with a garden area for around 200 guests," Senior Restaurant, Bar and Banquet Manager Adrian de Zilva said.

De Zilva said that these two halls have become very popular not only for local weddings but also for foreign couples who select Sri Lanka to say 'I Do.' "The banquet halls offer all facilities to make the occasion a most memorable one," de Zilva said.

"The banquet halls are built in such a manner that guests are provided with a panoramic view of the famous Negombo lagoon while savouring the delicious cuisine prepared by Taj's expert chefs, both Indian and Sri Lankan, who combine their talents to offer the very best of Indian, international and Sri Lankan spicy cuisine," de Zilva said. So make it a date with the "Sigiri" or "Harbour Bar" and savour Taj's most delicious cuisine in a most friendly and courteous atmosphere.

Rib it up at Cheers!

COLOMBO: Cheers Pub at Cinnamon Grand gives you the ultimate Ribs experience this month with over 12 different kinds of mouthwatering Rib preparations to tuck into complete with a bib and a finger bowl!

The promotion, on till April 30 offers both beef and pork Ribs with everything from sweet, tangy, fiery and spicy flavours including Ribs in Rum and Tequila!

The menu boasts of innovative flavours such as Hawaiian Ribs, Cajun Style BBQ Ribs, Stout Marinated Ribs with Honey Glaze to the more popular combinations of BBQ Chilli Marinated Ribs, Chinese Spare Ribs and even Ribs with Cinnamon in Red Wine and Apricot Sauce!

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