EKHO Surf, Bentota opens with unique vast uninterrupted view of the ocean
Daily FT: EKHO Surf, Bentota emerges from a transformative renovation, inviting travelers, holidaymakers, and ocean-lovers to savour its unique, vast, uninterrupted ocean view. Officially relaunched on 19 December, the hotel narrates a story of resilience, evolution, and the timeless allure of Sri Lanka’s pristine coastline, perfectly timed for the peak of the December tourist season.
EKHO Surf combines golden sunsets, soft sand, and a sprawling lawn with well-appointed rooms and the freshest seafood, offering a truly authentic tropical escape.
Reflecting on the hotel’s journey, which began in 1972 and continues today as “EKHO Surf”, its journey has been a labour of love; a commitment to creating not just a hotel but an immersive experience that reflects the beauty and warmth of Sri Lanka. The relaunch symbolizes their dedication to offering a retreat that stands the test of time, inviting guests to create their own memories on Sri Lanka’s golden shores. Through the decades, they have written different chapters suitable for the times, and are excited about the one they have just begun.
In December 2023, EKHO Surf unveiled a fresh chapter in its storied history, marked by a comprehensive refurbishment. The hotel now stands as an icon of style, inviting guests to experience a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and coastal charm.
The contemporary lobby design and beach-inspired touches in the rooms evoke a sense of tradition while embracing modern sensibilities. This transformation goes beyond appearances, introducing enhanced amenities, wellness, and an oceanfront trendy bar becoming Firebeach, a sister outlet at the Galle Face Hotel.
Established in 1972 as Lihiniya Surf, the hotel has undergone a remarkable journey, evolving with the ebb and flow of tourism trends. Spearheaded by the vision of Kumara Maliyarachchi, Chairman of the Associate Hotels Group, the inaugural Government-owned tourist complex quickly became a cherished destination along Bentota beach, known as the longest stretch of beach on the southwest coast.
The hotel’s popularity soon surged, attracting those in search of the perfect fusion of sun, sea, and sand. Over the years, and subsequent to its parent company merging with Ceylon Hotels Corporation PLC, Lihiniya Surf transformed into ‘The Surf’ in 2012 and later evolved into EKHO Surf in 2016, encapsulating the essence of a renewed identity inspired by Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture.
OSL take:
The steady growth in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry has open up business/investment opportunities. The steady growth in tourist arrivals to the country has resulted in a growth in business/investment opportunities in the industry, especially in the leisure and hospitality sectors. Also, there are growing opportunities in the development of infrastructure and supplementary infrastructure facilities required by the industry to meet the growing demand. The expansion in the leisure and hospitality sectors has attracted the attention of many foreign leisure and hospitality brands given the growth and business potential in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. The growth in the country’s tourism industry is expected to see a further growth with the continuous promotional campaigns carried out by the local authorities in key tourist source markets and Sri Lanka being identified as a must visit tourist destination by the international media. Given the overall growth and business potential in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, foreign businesses/investors could confidently explore the expanding opportunities in the industry.
| Article Code : | VBS/AT/20240111/Z_4 |