Cinnamon Lakeside to set new standards

Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo is poised to set a new standard in the hospitality industry in Sri Lanka by taking indulgence to a new level.

Since its establishment in 1985, the hotel has reinvented its identity: from Ramada Renaissance to Trans Asia Hotel and now, to Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo.

The transformation that has now taken place gives the hotel a new aura and ambience; a sensitive character and liberating spaces, making it truly the unique resort city hotel of the prestigious Cinnamon brand of hotels and resorts, the most preferred hospitality brand in the country today.

The decision to transform the hotel was taken by the John Keells Group, which owns the property. "A comparison of islandwide occupancy rates in Sri Lanka shows that during the upsurge in tourist arrivals brought about by the ceasefire (2002-05), hotels in Colombo benefited the most with average occupancy rates in the city increasing to over 70 percent in 2004-05", said Deputy Chairman, John Keells Group Ajit Gunewardene.

"Today, with the 501-room Cinnamon Grand Colombo having well-established itself as the best five-star in Colombo, and a newly refurbished Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo offering the business traveller a unique environment of leisure within the city, the John Keells Group simply awaits to greet the tourism potential of post-conflict Sri Lanka."

Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo borders on the Beira Lake, giving guests an opportunity to enjoy an unparalleled al fresco dining experience in the heart of the busy, bustling city of Colombo.

Be it a relaxing afternoon under the shade of a mango tree or an exciting party by the illuminated waters of the lake, guests have choices that no other city hotel can offer.

Indulgence is the key to everything the hotel offers and the changes brought about by the renovation are no exception. They include new restaurants, a classy bar, and refurbished rooms with a stunning view of the lake, decor in warm, earthy hues that are sure to make you unwind; and even a new monthly newsletter, The Grapevine!

The ballroom has been restored to its original glory with stunning chandeliers and new carpet and furnishings, allowing patrons to have their functions catered at their favourite venue. Azmaara Spa will be the latest addition to the hotel's guest facilities, offering a range of the finest spa treatments to suit every guest.

Gunawardene said, "The investment in refurbishing Trans Asia and re-launching it under the Cinnamon brand with new rooms, a completely different look to its lobby and an array of unique lakeside dining options will enable the hotel to position itself among the premium accommodation providers in the city while catering to multiple tiers of the market."