CHARNIKA IMBULANA MUNASINGHE
COLOMBO : The launch of “The Enchanting East: a year-round Sri Lankan experience”, a combined effort by two home grown hospitality brands, Jetwing Hotels and Thema Collection last week saw the topic open for discussion to a wide audience comprising of leading Travel Agents, Travel Influencers, Travel Enthusiasts and Media Representatives. This effort was mainly to ensure that the Eastern Region will no longer be perceived to be merely a seasonal destination, but one that will be in season, year-round.
Proprietor of Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing and a Non- Executive Director of Jetwing Symphony PLC, Len Potter, outlining what would appeal year-round, beyond the traditional surfing months from April to September, said that more emphasis for sight-seeing be made on the rich cultural and historical heritage by highlighting the lesser known sites such as Kudumbigala Viharaya and Magul Maha Viharaya that can help expand the ‘season’ into several more months.
Porter spoke on the diverse weather patterns in the East and proposed a range of activities to fill-in a travel itinerary from October through March. “During this time the area becomes a haven for migratory birds escaping harsh Northern hemisphere winters, with places like Kumana National Park serving as their refuge” he said
“Gal Oya, Kumana, and Lahugala national parks offer peaceful sanctuaries for Sri Lanka’s ‘big three’ – elephants, leopards, and sloth bears, making them an excellent alternative to the busier Yala National Park for wildlife enthusiasts”, he added.
Hashan Cooray, Director of Marketing and Development at Jetwing Hotels detailed the company’s unique properties dotted towards the Eastern corner of the island: Jetwing Kaduruketha located in Wellawaya, Jetwing Surf and Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing which are both located in Pottuvil.
He explained the properties are modeled on a traditional Sri Lankan village and explained the facilities available. “Jetwing Kaduruketha offers guests a rustic village experience combined with modern luxuries. It is known for its personalized service, locally sourced cuisine and various excursions, making it an ideal base for waterfall expeditions and exploring historical sites.” he revealed.
“Guests can also engage in activities such as learning about Sri Lanka’s agricultural traditions at the property’s own paddy fields and taking a dip in the Kirindi Oya, which borders the property. Jetwing Surf redefines eco-luxury tourism with its distinctive and award-winning architecture, while Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing, is a luxurious villa, nestled on a secluded bay and surrounded by the ocean on two sides.”
Both properties he said offer easy access to prime surfing spots and a plethora of wildlife, nature, and cultural experiences, along with a myriad of other activities that can be experienced in the region.
Maxime Wickramasinghe, Director- Marketing and Business Development at Thema Collection, shared the brand’s commitment to creating thematic experiences tailored to each property’s location.
“Wild Glamping Gal Oya, located in Rathugala, a scenic village surrounded by mountains and inhabited by the Veddas, the indigenous people of Sri Lanka, offers an exceptional glamping adventure, allowing nature enthusiasts to immerse themselves and learn about coexistence with nature from the Veddas”, he explained.
“Maalu Maalu Resort and Spa, inspired by Sri Lankan ‘wadiya’ fishing villages, is located on the tranquil Pasikuda waters. Maalu Maalu offers a wide range of activities suitable for guests of all ages, from snorkeling adventures among vibrant coral reefs to exploring the historic and culturally rich city of Batticaloa”, he added.
Wickramasinghe also presented interesting statistics comparing rainfall in the Eastern and Southern regions, indicating that the East, for most months of the year – including the misconceived “off-season” months, receives significantly less rainfall than the South. This information is valuable for travellers planning their visits and seeking more favorable weather conditions.
Following their presentations, a panel discussion was conducted with the participation of Hiran Cooray, Chairman of Jetwing Symphony PLC, and Chandra Wickramasinghe, Founder and Chairman of Thema Collection and Connaisance de Ceylan.
The audience posed thought-provoking questions to the panel on biodiversity conservation, and ways in which connectivity to the east can be improved. The engaging panel discussion offered profound insights and ignited stimulating conversations, highlighting the importance of partnerships and collaborative efforts in this endeavor and the need to protect the region from overdevelopment and exploitation.
The traveller to the East can enjoy the serene shores of Pasikuda and the exhilarating waves of Pottuvil and its abundant surf points and unspoilt beaches and also the majestic mountains, peacefully observe birds and other wildlife, delve into the lifestyles of paddy-farmers and Sri Lanka’s indigenous communities, and take a peek at the historical sites too.
Thus whether the travellers seek to reconnect with nature or immerse in the vibrant culture and history of Sri Lanka, the East can enchant the discerning explorers with a rich tapestry of experiences with all the above combined throughout the year.
Jetwing and Thema Collection are poised to assist the travelers ready to explore the captivating allure of the eastern region offering unparalleled opportunities for unforgettable and transformative journeys. The message is clear – the two hospitality brands combined are set to enchant the traveller to the East, not only for the season but ensure that the East be in season, enchanting all visitors all year-round. #
