Emirates honours Lanka’s top travel agents
Emirates have recognised its leading travel agents in Sri Lanka at a special gathering in appreciation of their support and dedication to the airline for the year 2023 at Shangri-La Hotel in Colombo.
Emirates’ Country Manager for Sri Lanka and Maldives, Rashid Al Ardha said: “Our travel trade partners contribute significantly to the airline’s achievements in Sri Lanka. Recognising the strategic role that our travel partners have to play in our sales and distribution efforts, we put a great emphasis on nurturing these collaborations.”
“By leveraging their local expertise, we are able to address the demand for travel to and from and across our network. We are delighted to have the opportunity to be here today to recognise the partners who have steadfastly supported Emirates.”
“Through our deep strategic partnership with Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau we’re playing an active role in promoting the island’s tourism and trade industries and broadening the nation’s appeal in key global markets, through our ongoing support of its strategy to attract 2.5 million tourists in 2024 and 5 million by 2029.”
The top ten travel agency partners honored were Classic Travel, Inqbaytor Group, 2nd Chance Travels, Traveller Global, George Steuarts Travel, Acorn Travels, Metro Voyage, Mackinnon’s Travels, BOC Travels and MSA Travels & Tours.
Khaled Nasser Al Ameri, Ambassador of the UAE to Sri Lanka, and Ahmed Khoory, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations – West Asia and Indian Ocean were special invitees. More than 175 guests including business leaders from Sri Lanka’s travel trade, representatives of airport and aviation services and Emirates local office team in Sri Lanka were present at the awards gala, where ten travel agency partners were presented with awards.
Colombo welcomes ‘First Padel Tennis Court’ for fitness enthusiasts
In a groundbreaking moment for the sports and fitness enthusiasts of Sri Lanka, Padel House Colombo unveiled the nation’s first-ever Padel Tennis Court in Thimbirigasyaya Colombo 5.
The launch took place on February 27, with the presence of the Minister of Tourism, Lands, Youth Affairs and Sports Harin Fernandoamidst a gathering of invitees, sports enthusiasts and the media, marking a significant milestone in the country’s sports and recreation landscape.
“We are thrilled to pioneer the introduction of Padel to Sri Lanka through Padel House. Our vision is to redefine sports experiences in the country, and Padel, being a globally celebrated sport, aligns perfectly with that ambition. This launch signifies more than just a new venture; it’s a commitment to fostering a community of sports enthusiasts and bringing fresh adventures to our beautiful island,” said Shamal Perera Director Padel House.
Thaala Bentota unveils refined wine menu with novel concept
Browns Hotels & Resorts unveiled their refined wine menu with a novel concept called ‘Live. Love. Wine’ across all properties in October 2023, offering dedicated pairings and tastings to elevate the guest experience.
In keeping with this promise, Thaala Bentota by Browns Hotels & Resorts hosted an exclusive Valentine’s Day wine tasting and pairing dinner accompanied with sunset serenades by the beautiful Bentota beach.
Executive Chef Nalaka Dinendra crafted an exquisite six-course menu, blending innovative dishes with local flavours, spotlighting Bentota’s renowned fresh seafood. Guests savoured the seamless pairing of white wines with succulent prawns and grilled fish, while robust red wines perfectly complemented dishes such as lamb chops and more.