By Zanita Careem
A glamorous celebration of South Asean hospitality took place with Sri Lanka taking centre age. at the vibrant capital of the Maldives, Male. It became the centre of attention for South Asia’s Tourism and Hospitality fraternity as industry leaders, hoteliers, travel professionals and other invited guests gathered for the 10th editiom of the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA). Hosted at the stylish ambience of Barcelo Nasandhura Male, the glittering gala brought together the region’s leading tourist destination for an evening of celebration, recognition and camaraderie, with the Maldives providing a fitting backdrop for this prestigious gathering.
Amid the elegance and exitement of the occasion, Sri Lanka emerged as one of the evening’s standout performers, collecting an impressive array of awards that reflected the island’s strength in hospitality, travel luxury wellness and personalised guest experiences. The accoladesss were a proud endorcement of talent, dedication and service excellence that continue to distinguish Sri Lanka’s tourism industry across the South Asian region.
The key highlight was the address by the SATA President, Ismail Hameed, who stressed the importance of strengthening regional co-operation, maintaining hospitality standards and preparing the industry for a rapidly evolving tourism environment. His speech underscored the need for South Asian destination to work together to embrace innovation and build a more competitive and sustainable tourism sector. Artificial Intelligence and the future of hospitality took centre stage at (SATA) where panel discussions brought together industry professionals to examine how technology is transforming the travel and tourism landscape. Moderated by Dinuksha Chandrasena, Editor in Chief and publisher of Travel Talk Asia and Managing Director of Double Dee publication, who explored the growing role of artificial intelligence in enhancing guest experiences, streamlining hotel operations and helping the industry respond to the changing expectation of modern travellers.
The conservation also raised an important question how hotels embrace technological innovation without losing the personal touch that remains at the heart of genuine hospitality,
The discussions reflected a wider transformation taking place across the hospitalality industry, where digital solutions are becoming increasingly important in everything, from personalised guest services to efficient management.
Cultural extravaganza: Colour,rhythm and tradition
Cinnamon Grand Colombo made a notable impact at the South Asian Travel Awards 2016 held in the Maldives with its achievements reflecting the strength of Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry. The hotel struck gold for Best General Manager Nazoomi Azhar, while young achiever Gayani Punchihewa won gold in the Best Young Hotelier category. Cinnamon Grand also achieved Silver for Best Food and Beverage Hotel in South Asia.
The 10th South Asian Travel Awards celebrated not only the regions finest in travel and hospitalitybut also the spirit of partnership that continues to strengthen South Asian Tourism. A special highlight was the presentation of the prestigious Face of South Asia award to Mohamed Salih, Chairman of Damas Company, in recognition of his contribution to the tourism industry. A total of 52 gold and 98 silver awards were presented across various categories recognising achievements in the hospitality industry, with Bhutan, Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and the Maldives in the scene.
Sri Lanka also made a strong impression at the South Asian Travel Awards held in Male.
The iconic Galle Face Hotel has been ranked No 1 in the Best Heritage Hotel category. It is the first time the iconic Galle Face Hotel has claimed the top honour, making it a significant milestone in a history that go back to 1864. Cinnamon Lakeside won the award as a leading meeting and conference hotel.
Other award winners included Kingsbury Hotel, Amaya hotels Kandy, leading Hill Resort/hotel, Anantara Peace Haven, leading luxury resort – Amaya Lake Dambulla, New Burgh Ella, Royal Beach, Beruwela, Marine Bay Hotel, Marine Drive, South Asia’s best new hotel, Auygiri Aurveda, Wellness and Spa Resort.
Most romantic resort The Fortress Resort and spa. Fox resorts silver winner, leading hospitality development company, Sri Lankan Airlines leading international airline, Aitken Spence Travels – leading travel Agent.
Amari Hotel won an award for Sri Lanka’s leading business hotel.