Jetwing Sea Opens after $5mn Upgrde of Former Jetwing Seashells at Negombo. A JV with Zinc Journeys of Chaudhary Group Nepal

14th January 2011, www.island.lk

Jetwing Hotels has once again underlined their commitment in the pursuit of excellence, by undertaking a major upgrade to transform the cosy beach property formerly known Jetwing Seashells, into a contemporary designer resort hotel within a period of just six months; an amazing feat to say the least.

The brand new Jetwing Sea lapped incessantly by the Indian Ocean will reopen formally this weekend in the backdrop of a ceremonial function which is expected to be attended by both the local and foreign travel trade. The new configuration boasts eighty three rooms including two suites tucked away on the topmost floor, offering you an uninterrupted view of the ocean.

The result of a substantial investment in excess of US$ 5 million, this venture is collaboration between Jetwing Hotels and Zinc Journeys which is a part of the extensive Chaudhary Group based in Nepal. The property retains a blend of both the old and the new, with unique interiors that warm and delight the eyes, accentuated by brilliantly sunlit exteriors. The redesign ably met the challenge of breathing new life into the old wing by adding new facilities and a whole new experience for guests, bringing the hotel on par with other luxury properties.

The revamped design is the product of internationally renowned architect Murad Ismail, a student of the world renowned late Geoffrey Bawa style of minimalist architecture. Murad has been able to introduce deft touches to the original edifice, using his considerable years of experience and knowledge to recreate Jetwing Seashells into a luxurious and modern seaside retreat that will be topically called the Jetwing Sea.

Murad has attacked convention and given a uniquely delightful concept by bringing to the Jetwing Sea, the ethnic Lellama which will offer authentic seafood cuisine exploiting gainfully the bounty of the ubiquitous Negombo fishing village.

Dining is not confined to the Lellama with the main restaurant virtually spilling onto the beach and a walk-in wine cellar offering the finest handpicked wines only available within the Jetwing Hotels chain. Other facilities include two sumptuous swimming pools, a fully equipped gymnasium, as well as a rooftop SPA located atop the fourth floor which is a haven of rejuvenation for both mind and soul.

The pristine beachfront has remained untouched, and is quickly becoming famous amongst other popular beach venues in Sri Lanka but stands apart because of its proximity to the sea, literally allowing the waves of the Indian Ocean to roll into the foyer and sneak beneath your nerves!

With the Jetwing Sea ready to launch and the Jetwing Blue due to follow suit shortly, the stage is set for Negombo to emerge as quality beach resort just minutes away from the BIA. "We have a way to go, but I am confident that the community in which Jetwing was born will flourish in the years to come, thanks to our sustained efforts." said Hiran Cooray, Chairman of Jetwing Hotels.

Situated in the hinterland of Negombo, Jetwing Sea is one of four properties alongside Jetwing Beach - which is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Jetwing Ayurveda Pavilions – the purpose built Ayurveda and SPA hotel, the Jetwing Blue, re-created from the very first Jetwing venture, the former Blue Oceanic Hotel.

Related Info :
• Sri Lanka's Jetwing Invests 6bn on Eight Hotels Covering All Parts of the Country
• Sri Lanka Jetwing Plans a Hotel in Northern Jaffna Peninsula
• Sri Lanka is the Best Place in the World for Seeing and Photographing Blue Whales. Migratory Whales Passing Southern Seas of Sri Lanka Confirmed