Marriott International Inc. yesterday signed an agreement with Colombo City Centre, a member of the Abans International Group, which is one of Sri Lanka’s largest privately held conglomerates with diversified interests, to debut ‘The Courtyard by Marriott’ brand in Sri Lanka.
“We are delighted to strengthen our Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of hotels in Sri Lanka with this signing,”said Marriott International President-Asia Pacific (excluding China) Rajeev Menon.
“This signing underscores our long-term commitment to Sri Lanka as a strategically important market, offering the potential to grow our brand and provide customers with more choices.”
Set in the heart of Colombo city adjacent to the Beira Lake, The Courtyard by Marriott Colombo will provide convenient business connectivity and excellent views of the city skyline. Slated to feature 164 modern-styled guest rooms and suites, the hotel will offer an inviting hospitality experience through its intuitive service and uplifting spaces, allowing business and leisure guests to shift gears smoothly from work to relaxation.
Design plans call for thoughtfully designed rooms, featuring a functional work area, smart amenities, and high-speed internet access, empowering guests to stay both connected and productive while on the road, no matter the purpose of their trip.
“We are very pleased to collaborate with Abans Group, who share our vision to offer smart, intuitive service and high-quality accommodation in Sri Lanka,” commented Marriott International South Asia Regional Vice President – Development Kiran Andicot.
The hotel is set to feature two dining venues – including an all-day dining restaurant offering a combination of Western dishes, Asian favourites and a host of local delicacies, as well as an adjoining Lobby Lounge decked with a full-service bar and a quick-bites menu. Additional plans call for a well-equipped 24-hour fitness centre, an outdoor swimming pool and meeting rooms to be fully equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and wireless internet.
“We are happy to have forged this strategic alliance with Marriott International and we are keen to see our relationship grow from strength to strength. We now eagerly look forward to opening the first Courtyard by Marriott Hotel in Sri Lanka and are excited to have Marriott International with us at Colombo City Centre,” stated Abans Group Chairperson Aban Pestonjee.
Abans Group Managing Director Behman Pestonjee sharing his thoughts said: “We are delighted to partner with Marriott International – the world’s largest hospitality group. With plans for more similar developments to follow, this is a testimony to our confidence in the market and our long-term commitment to contribute to the growth of our beautiful city. We gladly welcome the entry of Marriott into Colombo City Centre and our Group.”
“Abans PLC and Marriott International have jointly recognised the growth potential in our island nation. We are confident that tourism will bounce back to its full glory shortly. Colombo is one of the most sought-after cities in South Asia, as it is highly cosmopolitan area and is a melting pot of several cultures. Marriott and we are perfectly poised for a long innings together,” affirmed Colombo City Centre CEO Praveen Methil.
(FT)