Tag Archives: #AitkenSpenceHotels

Why Savvy Luxury Travellers Are Booking Early Winter Escapes To The Maldives Right Now

27 September 2024 – An Indian Ocean winter holiday is the ultimate way to swap the coldest time of the year in the UK for time out in an enjoyable and clement climate. As such, prices at resorts in the Maldives are at a peak in December and January. However, by opting to travel a few weeks or days either side of the most popular winter weeks, holidaymakers can often save hundreds of pounds on a luxury getaway.

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Indian Ocean Escapes Perfect for Solo Travellers

08 August 2024 – The Indian Ocean truly offers the best of sun, sea and golden sands, and can cater to all types of travellers, including solo travellers ready to escape to an island paradise alone.

Here are four inspiring Indian Ocean resorts worth visiting to make a solo holiday truly exceptional: Continue reading

The Indian Ocean Resorts Putting the Aaah into Spa Breaks

04 July 2024 – When it comes to spa breaks, the Indian Ocean is undoubtedly a top world destination. Yet with so many resorts to choose from it can be difficult to choose the best spa that will be memorable for all the right reasons. Here are four stand-out Indian Ocean spa options that promise to thrill spa and wellness travellers: Continue reading

04 June 2024 When it comes to Wedding and Honeymoons, Sri Lanka is a standout destination in the Indian Ocean thanks to its wide appeal for all sizes of wedding parties, and the exceptional value the Indian Ocean island offers British travellers. 

Getting Married in Sri Lanka: Key Information

  • Sri Lankan law requires foreigners to spend at least four days (three nights) in Sri Lanka prior to notifying a marriage registrar of intended marriage.
    A marriage abroad will be legally recognised in the UK providing it was contracted according to the law of the country in which it took place. There is no requirement, or facility, to register the marriage in England afterwards.
  • The legal requirements for Registration of Marriages of Foreign Nationals in Sri Lanka are very straightforward. You are required to produce the documents including passports, birth certificates and tourist visas to the Divisional/District Registrar of the area where your marriage would take place. When booking your tour operator or the wedding resort can ensure you have all required information before you travel.

Aitken Spence Hotels has unique award-winning resorts across Sri Lanka that can cater to a wedding party’s every need, and with over 25 years curating wedding events, would-be brides and grooms can be reassured that their journey from engaged in the UK to married in Sri Lanka will be handled seamlessly by the resort team.

Best for Sri Lanka Beach Weddings – Heritance Negombo

Located only 20 minutes from the International Airport and ten seconds from the Indian Ocean, Heritance Negombo is ‘the’ destination to celebrate love overlooking the beach.

With the options of the lvo ballroom, banquet garden and beach lawn,  the resort can cater to wedding parties of up to 450 guests. Couples can therefore choose from a monsoon wedding on the beach lawn for 20 nearest and dearest, to a banquet for 300-plus friends and family.

Special Wedding Touches: Exquisite wedding cakes by six-time culinary Olympic Champion Chef Dimuthu Kumorosinghe are available upon request. For wedding parties that would like a touch of Sri Lankan tradition there is an opportunity to incorporate the lighting of an oil lamp as part of a Sinhala blessing within the wedding, and have Sri Lankan dancers and drummers as part of the wedding service.

For more information about Sentido Heritance Negombo, visit www.heritancehotels.com/negombo.

Best for Nature Lovers – Heritance Kandalama

Envisioned and created by Deshamanya Geoffrey Bawa, Heritance Kandalama is located in the area known as Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, and is an architectural wonder set amidst a lush conservation forest spanning 224 acres, almost invisible amidst the greenery that surrounds it. Promising panoramic views from wherever you stand, the hotel itself is a unique Sri Lankan tourist destination which doesn’t just sit on the landscape but is naturally a part of it, making it the ideal destination for an enchanting fairytale wedding.

Three sites within the hotel can cater to weddings for 150 – 260 attendee weddings.

Special Wedding Touches: A package of custom wedding cake, Champagne and/ or Sparkling Cider toast, and a four-hour beer or wine bar, is available on request. Weddings menus start from USD 50 net per person.

For more information about Heritance Kandalama, visit www.heritancehotels.com/kandalama/

Best for A Stunning Architectural Backdrop – Heritance Ahungalla

The first-five star beach resort in Sri Lanka, Heritance Ahungalla, was designed by legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa, and is known for its vivid blues reflecting the Indian Ocean, which forms an elegant backdrop that is perfect for the exchange of vows. The inherent amalgamation of comfort and spirit of hospitality that is second to none makes Heritance Ahungalla uniquely suited for wedding celebrations that marry simplicity and charm.

From designing an elegant ceremony under a beautifully decorated altar on the beach where guests can enjoy the breathtaking sunset, to a waterfront wedding in the verdant lawn with a stylish and contemporary setting – the versatile event spaces make the ideal canvas to paint your dream wedding.

The hotel takes pride in providing attentive, personalised service and the extra touch of class, as you celebrate your most important milestone.

Special Wedding Touches: Couples can pick their choice from carefully crafted local and global menu offerings to suit their palate. Resort chefs create the finest cuisine that can cater to various culinary tastes coupled with impeccable service, to offer guests an unforgettable dining experience. Make the most of our eclectic cuisine and unwind after the ceremony with a romantic candle-lit dinner by the shore under the starlit sky.

For more information about Heritance Ahungalla, visit www.heritancehotels.com/ahungalla/

ENDS

For further information, trade partner rates, or press trip requests, contact [email protected]

Notes To Editors:
Image Captions:
Image 1: Heritance Negombo is ‘the’ destination to celebrate love overlooking the beach.
Image 2: The View from the Royal Suite at Heritance Kandalama.
Image 3: Best for A Stunning Architectural Backdrop, Heritance Ahungalla.

For these and other high-resolution resort images, click here.

About Aitken Spence Hotels
Aitken Spence Hotels is part of the Sri Lankan blue-chip conglomerate Aitken Spence PLC. Aitken Spence Hotels owns and operates 17 hotels and resorts across Sri Lanka, Maldives, Oman and India. The Company’s owned hotels are reflected under the Heritance, Adaaran and Turyaa brands, popular around the world for its exceptional service and undisputed product and curated lifestyle experiences. The Company’s Sri Lankan portfolio includes eight hotels and resorts spread across the island of which five are Heritance properties, whilst the Maldives resorts totals to five (with one Heritance resort), three in Oman and one in India.

Media Enquiries: Fiona Anderson, GEC PR | [email protected]

An Insiders Guide to Choosing Maldives All- Inclusive Getaways

19 April 2024 – With all-inclusive holidays becoming more popular than ever with UK travellers, the choices on offer for all-inclusive breaks has grown exponentially. However, as no two all-inclusive offerings are the same, choosing the right all-inclusive has become more complicated.

For instance, premium travellers wishing to holiday in the Maldives have many “AlI In” options available, so it’s worth doing your research and thinking beyond price to ensure a Maldives all-inclusive break delivers the best for you experientially as well as value for money.

These All-Inclusive resorts each offer unique experiences that make them suitable for discerning travellers that wish to experience varying aspects of Maldives resort culture:

Maldives All Inclusive Best for Families: Adaaran Select Meedhupparu

Nestled on a mature island adorned with ancient trees and its own house reef, Adaaran Select Meedhupparu invites families to embark on an unforgettable journey of relaxation and adventure in the heart of the Maldives.

The resort offers children a chance to explore the Maldives’ stunning underwater vistas and spot a range of marine wildlife species through snorkeling excursions starting as little as USD 20 (approx. £15.70).

With its own dedicated kids club, parents can indulge in thrilling adventures while their children engage in activities such as art and crafts, perfect for families seeking a hassle-free summer retreat.

A Beach Villa at Adaaran Select Meedhupparu starts from USD 367 (approx. £ 292) + taxes in June 2024.

For more information on Adaaran Select Meedhupparu, visit https://www.adaaran.com/selectmeedhupparu/offers/island-getaways.html.

Maldives All Inclusive Best for Adults Only: Adaaran Prestige Vadoo

Adaaran Prestige Vadoo is the perfect adults-only resort for couples seeking both serenity and adventure in a Maldivian paradise. Enjoy thrilling water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, jet skiing, and catamaran sailing. Indulge in intimate experiences like romantic sandbank picnics and sunset fishing excursions. Explore hidden gems of the Maldives with island-hopping adventures to secluded beaches and pristine lagoons. Unwind at the resort’s Mandara Spa, which offers a range of rejuvenating treatments – from traditional aromatherapy massages, to result-driven ELEMIS face and body treatments.

An Overwater Villa with a private jacuzzi at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo starts from USD 818 (approx. £651) + taxes in June 2024.

To book a stay at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, visit https://www.adaaran.com/prestigevadoo/offers/island-getaways.html.

Maldives All Inclusive Best for Gastronomes: Premium All Inclusive Heritance Aarah

Located in the azure Raa Atoll, Heritance Aarah is the home of culinary decadence in the Maldives. At the core of Heritance Aarah’s enchantment is a diverse and flavourful culinary scene, brought to life through its unique ‘Dine Around’ concept. With seven distinctive restaurants and five bars, each establishment creates its own epicurean tale. Enhancing the Premium All-Inclusive experience, Heritance Aarah presents a remarkable array of dining options, from exclusive pod dining to world-class buffets curated by award-winning culinary artists. Guests can indulge in culinary delights from around the world, including a fusion of Maldivian and Sri Lankan cuisine at Ambula, vibrant food cultures at Haatha, and ocean-fresh seafood at Ginifathi. Delve into the spice-infused wonders of Asian cuisine at Ranba, or savour the refined grace of European gastronomy at Ralu. The resort’s culinary odyssey promises an array of palate-pleasing adventures that not only satisfy taste buds, but enrich the spirit.

A highlight of the restaurant menus is the freshly caught fish and seafood, sustainably sourced from the surrounding waters. The resort actively supports local fisheries by procuring fish and seafood directly from nearby communities. Additionally, Heritance Aarah’s organic herb and vegetable garden supplies the resort kitchens with a bounty of freshly harvested produce. The organic gardens reduce the need for externally sourced ingredients, while delivering fresh, healthy, and sustainable food options for guests. This culinary ethos not only satisfies the palate but also supports environmental stewardship and local agriculture. So, as guests relish the last flavours of this barefoot culinary haven, they take away memories of exquisite tastes and also the satisfaction of knowing their dining experience contributed to a greater good.

A Beach Villa at Heritance Aarah in June starts from $730 (approximately £585) + tax per Villa per night.

To discover more or to book, visit: https://www.heritancehotels.com/aarah/

Maldives All Inclusive Best for Time Poor Thrill Seekers: Adaaran Club Rannalhi

Accessed via a short speedboat ride away from Male’s Velana International Airport, Adaaran Club Rannalhi offers thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts an Indian Ocean escape from the ordinary. Discover a range of exciting excursions and activities designed to elevate your tropical island summer. From thrilling sunset fishing expeditions to enchanting island-hopping adventures, romantic sunset photo cruises, and captivating dolphin tours, Adaaran Club Rannalhi ensures endless possibilities for exploration.

A Standard Room at Adaaran Club Rannalhi starts from USD 251 (approx. £200) + taxes in June 2024.

For further information about Adaaran Club Rannalhi, visit https://www.adaaran.com/clubrannalhi/offers/island-getaways.html.

ENDS

Notes To Editors:

Image Captions:
Image 1: Adaaran Select Meedhupparu is a great all-inclusive option for families holidaying in the Maldives.
Image 2: Adaaran Prestige Vadoo is the perfect adults-only resort for couples seeking both serenity and adventure in a Maldivian paradise.
Image 3: Heritance Aarah presents a remarkable array of dining options for gastronomes, including ocean-fresh sustainably sourced seafood at Ginifathi restaurant.

For high resolution images, click here.

About Aitken Spence Hotels
Aitken Spence Hotels is part of the Sri Lankan blue-chip conglomerate Aitken Spence PLC. Aitken Spence Hotels owns and operates 17 hotels and resorts across Sri Lanka, Maldives, Oman and India. The Company’s owned hotels are reflected under the Heritance, Adaaran and Turyaa brands, popular around the world for its exceptional service and undisputed product and curated lifestyle experiences. The Company’s Sri Lankan portfolio includes eight hotels and resorts spread across the island of which five are Heritance properties, whilst the Maldives resorts totals to five (with one Heritance resort), three in Oman and one in India.

Media Enquiries: Fiona Anderson, GEC PR | [email protected]

See a Different Side to Sri Lanka on the New Trails of Bawa Architectural Tour


See a Different Side to Sri Lanka on the New Trails of Bawa Architectural Tour


26 March 2024 –
Heritance Hotels and Resorts, the flagship brand of Aitken Spence Hotels, has launched a new tour that promises guests a journey through the creative mind of world-renowned Sri Lankan architect, Geoffrey Bawa, credited as the father of ‘Tropical Modernism’, a design combination of traditional and modern architectural identity.
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TEN REASONS WHY THE MALDIVES SHOULD BE TOP OF YOUR TRAVEL LIST IN 2024


TEN REASONS WHY THE MALDIVES SHOULD BE TOP OF YOUR TRAVEL LIST IN 2024

19 December 2024 – With recent Post Office holiday data* revealing that 77% of Brits are planning to travel to a new destination in 2024, and 82% hoping to visit their dream destination, the Maldives can expect an influx of British visitors as the Indian Ocean island paradise is one of the most popular bucket list locations for UK travellers.
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PLAN YOUR BEST CHRISTMAS YET IN THE MALDIVES AND SRI LANKA WITH AITKEN SPENCE HOTELS


PLAN YOUR BEST CHRISTMAS YET IN THE MALDIVES AND SRI LANKA WITH
AITKEN SPENCE HOTELS

23 November 2023 – Escape to the Indian Ocean this festive season and enjoy Christmas basking in sunshine, while creating lasting memories that will stay with you forever.
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Travelling With Purpose: As Sri Lanka Reopens to UK Tourists, Here’s Five Reasons To Visit This Winter

30 September 2022 – Now that the UK Foreign Office (FCDO) has lifted its non-essential travel ban to Sri Lanka, there has never been a better or more vital time to travel to this Indian Ocean island. Tourism, which accounts for 11% of Sri Lanka GDP, will help the country recover, and Sri Lankan hospitality and unique experiences await those who wish to support the people of Sri Lanka and holiday in Sri Lanka in the coming months.

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