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

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.


Holiday Inn Express Opens in Greater Noida Knowledge Park

Holiday Inn Express Opens in Greater Noida Knowledge Park

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 14, 2024

IHG Hotels & Resorts, a global hospitality leader, proudly announces the opening of its latest Holiday Inn Express property in Greater Noida Knowledge Park. This addition is part of IHG’s continued expansion in India, offering smart, modern, and value-driven accommodations tailored for business, family, and solo travelers alike.

Strategic Location for Modern Travelers

Situated in the bustling industrial hub of Greater Noida, the hotel provides easy access to local attractions, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure guests. The property boasts 133 thoughtfully designed rooms equipped with blackout curtains, high-quality bedding, power showers, and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi.

For added convenience, rooms feature flat-screen TVs with content mirroring, ergonomic chairs, USB ports, and flexible workspaces, ensuring a seamless experience for today’s modern traveler.

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Comfort and Convenience at Its Core

Holiday Inn Express in Greater Noida Knowledge Park is designed to be a hassle-free base for guests, offering both relaxation and functionality. Guests can look forward to a restful sleep with the brand’s renowned Express Recharge program and enjoy a complimentary Express Start Breakfast with a variety of healthy and hearty options.

The hotel also features an all-day restaurant serving lunch and dinner, further enhancing the dining experience for travelers on the go.

Statements from Industry Leaders

Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, SWA, IHG Hotels & Resorts, shared, “The opening of this new Holiday Inn Express property reflects our commitment to strengthening our presence in key Indian markets. This hotel will cater to the evolving needs of today’s travelers, providing innovative and high-quality hospitality solutions.”

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Ashish Jakhanwala, Chairman, MD & CEO of SAMHI Hotels Ltd., added, “We are thrilled to introduce this property in Greater Noida. Our aim is to meet the growing demand for quality accommodations while contributing positively to the local economy. This new hotel embodies our commitment to exceptional guest experiences.”

Global Recognition for the Brand

Holiday Inn Express, IHG’s largest and fastest-growing brand globally, currently operates over 3,200 properties worldwide, with 644 more in the pipeline. Known for its no-fuss, smart travel experience, the brand continues to be a preferred choice for travelers seeking consistent quality and value.

Guests booking directly through ihg.com can enjoy additional benefits by signing up for the free IHG One Rewards membership, offering flexibility, rewards, and enhanced control over their stays.

About Holiday Inn Express

Designed for travelers on the go, Holiday Inn Express focuses on providing essential amenities and heartfelt service. With the Express Recharge program, complimentary breakfast, and value-rich stays, the brand continues to redefine simple, smart travel.

For more information, visit www.holidayinnexpress.com, or connect with the brand on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.


Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts Redefines Global Hospitality with Emotique Concept

Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts Redefines Global Hospitality with Emotique Concept

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 14, 2024

Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts, a trailblazer in the hospitality industry, is rapidly transforming the global landscape with its innovative approach and a vision for global growth. Established in 2020 and headquartered in the United Kingdom, the brand has quickly emerged as a force to reckon with, aiming to become the fastest-growing hotel management chain in the world.

A key component of Eight Continents’ success is its commitment to blending exceptional service with advanced digital infrastructure and a dynamic, cohesive team. This combination has allowed the brand to set new industry standards, crafting extraordinary experiences for its guests and redefining what it means to stay in a luxury hotel.

India, with its rising prominence as a global tourism destination, holds a significant place in Eight Continents' strategic expansion plans. The company has successfully introduced its unique Emotique Hotels concept across key regions, creating spaces that go beyond traditional hospitality by offering a deeply personal, emotional experience. Every Emotique property is carefully curated to connect with guests on a sensory level, blending awe-inspiring architecture with serene environments and personalized services to evoke joy, peace, and wonder.

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“Our mission is to craft spaces where guests feel understood and inspired,” says CEO Haninder Sachdeva. “Hospitality should not only cater to physical comforts but also nurture the soul, leaving a lasting emotional impact.” This philosophy extends throughout the company, with every team member trained to act as an “architect of emotion,” creating genuine connections and ensuring guests feel valued and cared for.

The brand’s commitment to holistic experiences is reflected in its dining and wellness offerings. At Eight Continents properties, dining is elevated to an art form, with every dish telling a unique story designed to evoke nostalgia, excitement, or comfort. Complementing this, the brand’s wellness initiatives, such as meditation sessions, mindfulness workshops, and rejuvenating spa treatments, ensure guests find emotional renewal and relaxation during their stay.

Despite its rapid growth, Eight Continents faces challenges in talent acquisition and technology adoption. However, the brand’s vision remains clear: to continue expanding, offering emotionally enriching experiences, and reshaping the future of hospitality worldwide.


Amo Odisha at Sterling Puri Recognized as One of India’s Top 50 Restaurants

Amo Odisha at Sterling Puri Recognized as One of India’s Top 50 Restaurants

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 14, 2024

Amo Odisha, the Odia specialty restaurant at Sterling Puri, has received a prestigious recognition by being named one of India’s Top 50 Restaurants at the FOOD FOOD Awards 2024. This accolade, decided by a distinguished jury of renowned chefs, food critics, and industry leaders, highlights the restaurant’s commitment to bringing the rich and diverse flavors of Odisha to a wider audience.

Since its opening in 2023, Amo Odisha has quickly earned a reputation for its exceptional culinary offerings and innovative approach to presenting traditional Odia dishes. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Abhijit Nag, the restaurant has consistently impressed food lovers with its authentic yet modern take on Odia cuisine, earning praise from both locals and visitors alike.

Amo Odisha’s ability to blend traditional flavors with contemporary cooking techniques has made it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. Its inclusion in the Top 50 Restaurants list is a testament to the restaurant's excellence and its contribution to enhancing India’s diverse food culture.

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“We are immensely proud of Amo Odisha’s recent recognition,” said Harinath M, Sr. VP Marketing for Sterling Holidays. “Sterling’s vision has always been to integrate local cuisine into the experience at our resorts. Since 2023, we’ve invested in specialty restaurants like Slate, Pearl, and Nilgiri Express, focusing on regional cuisines and lesser-known delicacies to provide our guests with unique culinary experiences.”

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The FOOD FOOD Awards celebrate innovation, creativity, and the exceptional dining experiences provided by restaurants across the country. Amo Odisha’s inclusion among India’s top culinary destinations is a reflection of the growing appreciation for regional Indian cuisines in the ever-evolving food scene.

For more information, visit: www.sterlingholidays.com/resorts-hotels/puri

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