Thailand's Minor to Build or Buy Hotels in Sri Lanka

08th May 2010, www.lankabusinessonline.com

Bangkok-based Minor International is looking to buy or build beach resorts in Sri Lanka, after the island emerged from a 30-year war and prospects for tourism brightened, a media report said.
Minor, which runs 'Anantara' branded hotels is Thailand's biggest hotel and fast food chain operator.

"We are now more optimistic about the potential in Sri Lanka," Chief Executive Officer William Heinecke was quoted as saying by Bloomberg newswires while on visit to Sri Lanka.

"Our focus is around the Indian Ocean, and we do have a substantial budget approved for expanding. We see good returns in Sri Lanka."

Minor is building its fourth resort in the Maldives. In 2007, Minor bought 20 percent of Sri Lanka's Serendib Hotels.

Heinecke said they were considering investing in properties in the southern and eastern coasts.

Following the end of the war with Tamil Tiger separatists, interest has been renewed especially in Sri Lanka's east coast, parts of which was under Tiger control during the war.

Minor also operates hotels in Thailand under the Marriott and Four Seasons brands and runs Thai franchises for Burger King Swensens, Pizza Company and Coffee Club.

Bloomberg quoted Heinecke as saying that "preliminary discussions" were held on developing restaurant brands.

Incredible Offers from SriLankan Airline on 62nd Independence. Only 62% of the Fare of Packages to a Range of Destinations.

27th January 2010, www.thebottomline.lk

As the whole of Sri Lanka celebrates the 62nd anniversary of Independence this year, so does SriLankan Airlines, joining into celebrate this joyous occasion with everyone born during that epoch making year, 1948.

It was the year when Ceylon gained freedom from the colonial yoke and a fledgling nation was born. This was a nation full of hope and promise with dreams of a glorious future.

If you were born in 1948, well then it’s celebration time with the “Incredible 62 Independence Extravaganza” from SriLankan Airlines.

All you need to do is to pay only 62% of the current fare of all outbound packages to a range of destinations. And mind you, this includes economy class return airfare, two night accommodation on twin sharing basis on bed and breakfast with return airport transfers.

All yours to choose from Bangalore (Rs.16,119), Chennai (Rs.13,019), New Delhi (Rs.24,799), Mumbai (Rs.27,279), Bangkok (Rs.26,039), Beijing (Rs.49,599), Hong Kong (Rs.47,119), Kuala Lumpur Special (Rs.24,179), Kuala Lumpur (Rs.29,139), Singapore Special (Rs.27,899), Singapore (Rs.31,619), Maldives (Rs.37,819) and Dubai (Rs.42,159).

Do bear in mind that ticketing has to be completed prior to February 4 with travel valid until March 31, 2010.

“You don’t have to be born in 1948 to enjoy this offer. You can go a step further and treat your parents, an old school teacher, an uncle, aunt or any special person celebrating his or her 62nd birthday this year,” said General Manager SriLankan Holidays Amith Sumanapala.

What better way to show your love and affection than with this special Independence cum birthday offer. For details call the SriLankan Holidays Office, your nearest travel agent or call us on +94 (0) 1 9733 3838.

Bon voyage and happy birthday with ‘Incredible 62 Independence Extravaganza’ from SriLankan Airlines.