Hilton’s New Yala Resort in Sri Lanka: A Nature-Focused Oasis

By Author

Published on October 18, 2023

Hilton, the renowned global hospitality leader, has recently unveiled its newest gem, the Hilton Yala Resort. Situated on the fringes of Sri Lanka’s famed Yala National Park, this property marks Hilton’s third flagship establishment in the country. Set amidst lush greenery and offering breathtaking vistas of the Indian Ocean, this resort is an ideal escape for travelers yearning for adventure and relaxation.

The resort’s design is a tribute to the wonders of Yala’s natural beauty. It features 42 elegantly designed rooms, suites, and villas adorned with contemporary interiors in soothing neutral tones. Safari chic accents and local artworks provide a subtle touch of the locale’s essence. Expansive windows invite guests to connect with the resort's natural surroundings, which teem with diverse flora and fauna. Ground-floor rooms boast private pools ranging from eight to 16 square meters, while those on the upper level offer private hot tubs, creating a tranquil space for relaxation.

Hilton Yala Resort takes its guests beyond its borders, offering an elevated and eco-conscious safari experience led by locally trained rangers. These wildlife experts tailor personalized, twice-daily game drives within Yala National Park. Each safari is not only an opportunity to witness the local wildlife but also a chance to participate in educational sessions that foster a deeper sense of awareness and appreciation for the environment.

The protection of Yala’s biodiversity and environmental sustainability is a cornerstone of Hilton Yala Resort's mission. Hilton collaborates with local partners to safeguard habitats and biodiversity. An onsite animal research program has been initiated, supported by the Hilton Global Foundation. It equips rangers with cutting-edge wildlife information, technology, and tools such as solar-powered weather sensors and night vision binoculars to monitor wildlife around the resort, aiding in their protection.

Hilton Yala Resort is dedicated to contributing to both conservation and the economic well-being of the local communities. The resort actively promotes responsible tourism, and Hilton is playing a pivotal role in conserving the region ethically. In collaboration with the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS), Hilton Yala Resort is partnering on wildlife research and exploring projects to protect wildlife across the Yala area and expand the use of locally grown produce. Moreover, they are excited to develop community education programs.

As part of Hilton’s commitment to destination stewardship and career advancement, they have established a ranger academy program in Sri Lanka. This program aims to increase the pool of qualified rangers and provide meaningful employment and conservation opportunities for the local community. Conducted by a Field Guides Association of Southern Africa-certified trainer, graduates may have the opportunity to work at Hilton Yala Resort.

Hilton Yala Resort offers three exceptional restaurants, each highlighting head chef Jerome Tissera's contemporary Sri Lankan cuisine, predominantly sourced from local ingredients. Guests can savor the flavors of Asia at Dhira, explore Western cuisine at Sandali, or enjoy cocktails and breathtaking views at Vanya. For a truly unique dining experience, venture into the wild for Lanthaaruma, an exclusive dining experience set amidst the lush jungle and the Indian Ocean's lapping waves, featuring a fully customized menu and sommelier-selected wines.

At the heart of the resort lies an outdoor pool that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings. The resort also boasts a fully equipped gym and a state-of-the-art spa, providing rejuvenating treatments in a beautifully designed space.

Hilton Yala Resort is part of Hilton Honors, the acclaimed guest loyalty program for Hilton's 22 hotel brands. To celebrate the resort's opening, Hilton Honors members will receive 10,000 bonus points for a minimum three-night stay booked directly with Hilton before December 1, 2023.

Hilton’s Yala Resort is a nature-focused sanctuary that combines adventure and relaxation, offering guests a unique connection with the remarkable Yala National Park and its surroundings while emphasizing environmental conservation and community involvement. Enjoy an unforgettable experience in the heart of Sri Lanka's natural wonders.

Elevated Festivity Unfolds at Novotel Vijayawada Varun with Christmas and New Year’s Eve Celebrations

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 23, 2025

Novotel Vijayawada Varun ushers in the festive season with a thoughtfully curated line-up of Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations, offering guests indulgent dining experiences, elegant festivities, and premium gifting options. Designed for families, friends, and festive revellers, the hotel promises a warm and memorable close to the year.

Adding to the festive cheer, Cake Factory at Novotel Vijayawada Varun presents a selection of beautifully curated Christmas hampers and classic plum cakes, ideal for festive gifting. Designed around thematic collections featuring gourmet treats, these hampers combine premium selections with elegant packaging.
The hampers and plum cakes are available at Cake Factory from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM until 31st December 2025.

On 24th December 2025, guests can celebrate the season with a Christmas Eve Dinner at Food Exchange, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant. Set amidst elegant festive décor, the dinner features a lavish multi-course spread curated by the Head Chef, making it an ideal choice for a cosy family gathering or a celebratory evening with loved ones. The dinner will be served from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Continuing the celebrations, Food Exchange hosts a festive Christmas Day Brunch on 25th December 2025, from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. The brunch includes a specially curated menu, live cooking stations, and live music, offering guests a vibrant and relaxed Christmas afternoon experience.

The festivities culminate with A Golden Gala – New Year’s Eve Celebrations on 31st December 2025, hosted across Food Exchange, Gourmet Bar, SkyDeck, Red Bowl, and V-Convention. Each venue offers a unique celebratory experience, ranging from gala dinners and curated menus to high-energy entertainment and open-air celebrations. Guests can enjoy specially crafted menus by the Head Chef, along with live singers, Bollywood DJs, and a live band, creating a lively atmosphere as the city counts down to 2026.

Guests dining in or staying at the hotel can avail an exclusive 20% early-bird discount on New Year’s Eve celebrations when booked on 30th December 2025. Additionally, diners at Red Bowl will receive one complimentary portion of dim sums with their food or beverage order.

With its elegant settings, curated menus, and immersive festive experiences, Novotel Vijayawada Varun sets the stage for a truly elevated Christmas and New Year celebration in the city.

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Wyndham Opens Beachfront Resort in Corfu’s Scenic Village of Acharavi

By Hariharan U

Published on December 22, 2025

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Wyndham Corfu Acharavi, a new beachfront resort located in the charming coastal village of Acharavi on the northern coast of Corfu. The opening marks Wyndham’s first namesake hotel on the island, one of Greece’s most sought-after year-round destinations. The property has been developed in collaboration with Mercan Group, one of Europe’s leading hotel developers.

Set along a picturesque seven-kilometre-long sandy beach, Wyndham Corfu Acharavi offers uninterrupted views of the Ionian Sea, framed by lush greenery and dramatic sunsets. Its location combines peaceful seafront living with easy access to the village centre, allowing guests to enjoy both tranquillity and authentic local experiences.

“The Emerald Isle of Corfu stands among the Mediterranean’s most exceptional destinations,” said Vassilis Themelidis, Regional Director, South & East Europe, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “Situated on one of the island’s longest beaches, Wyndham Corfu Acharavi marks an exciting milestone as our first namesake hotel in Corfu. As our portfolio grows to 15 hotels across Greece and Cyprus, our partnership with Mercan Group strengthens our presence in a market with strong long-term potential.”

The resort features 163 thoughtfully designed rooms, suites and apartments, with plans to add over 100 additional premium rooms in the coming months. Select accommodations include private plunge pools, offering enhanced privacy and comfort for leisure travellers.

Dining at the resort is designed to cater to diverse tastes, with Theos Main Restaurant offering live-cooking stations and buffet dining, while Olive Specialty Restaurant presents a contemporary take on the traditional Greek taverna. Additional cafés and snack bars serve both poolside and beachfront areas, ensuring guests enjoy all-day dining options.

Wellness and recreation are central to the guest experience. Facilities include a full-service spa with sauna and treatment rooms, a fully equipped gym, two outdoor swimming pools, a children’s pool, a tennis court and a dedicated children’s playground. The resort also offers private parking, a mini market featuring local products, and access to nearby activities such as cycling routes, sea excursions and scenic hiking trails.

With excellent air and sea connectivity to mainland Greece and neighbouring islands, Corfu serves both as a standalone destination and a gateway to the wider Ionian region.

Speaking on the collaboration, a Mercan Group representative noted that the opening of Wyndham Corfu Acharavi marks the beginning of a long-term partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, with plans to further enhance the property and meet growing demand as travel seasons continue to extend across the Mediterranean.

With its beachfront setting, family-friendly facilities and strong sense of place, Wyndham Corfu Acharavi is positioned as an inviting choice for travellers seeking a relaxed Greek island escape throughout the year.