John Keells Hotels Heralds the Arrival of
Chaaya Blu Trincomalee in May 2010

Colombo, Sri Lanka- The hotel property formerly known as Club Oceanic Trincomalee, a member of the John Keells Hotels Group is scheduled to reopen in May 2010 with a new and improved ambience as Chaaya Blu Trincomalee. Hotel operations have ceased in order to make way for the complete refurbishment and expansion plan which is currently underway. Under the watchful eye of renowned architect Channa Daswatte, Club Oceanic Trincomalee is to undergo a transformation which promises a fresh theme and a vibrant new appearance that will enchant its guests. The evocative designs and captivating architecture will blend in with the surroundings of Sri Lanka�s untouched east coast.

Located on the north eastern corner of the island, Trincomalee is home to the fifth largest natural harbour in the world. In recent times this region has been developing at a rapid rate and is focusing on capitalizing on its magnificent location, gorgeous beaches and crystal clear waters which have the potential to make Trincomalee another dream destination in Sri Lanka.

The John Keells Hotels Group has set aside a sum of Rs. 450 million for this project which will increase the hotel�s room capacity from 56 to 80. Joining the Chaaya Resorts and Hotels circle, Club Oceanic Trincomalee is to garland its grand reopening with its new name, Chaaya Blu Trincomalee. Nestled on a location which provides access to all the unique features of the area including the azure waters and sun kissed beaches of Uppuveli, Chaaya Blu Trincomalee is to offer a perfect escape for those in search of serenity. Travelers will also be able to engage in a variety of activities such as scuba diving, surfing, deep sea fishing, whale and dolphin watching while in Trincomalee. 

The Executive Vice President of the John Keells Hotels Group and Sector Head for Sri Lanka Resorts Mr. Jayantissa Kehelpannala stated �In such a short time since the dawn of peace in Sri Lanka, the east coast has emerged strongly as the country�s new tourism destination. Trincomalee in particular is becoming increasingly accessible to local and foreign holiday-makers with the development of the road network, allowing them to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli, some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the country and a host of other activities including yachting, angling and whale watching. �Blu� is as sea-farers would refer to the ocean and Chaaya Blu Trincomalee will be pledged to promoting the rich offerings of the seas of Trinco to the world,� he added.

Offering his views on the expansion project, Mr. Ajit Gunewardene, Deputy Chairman John Keells Holdings and President of the Leisure Group stated �Having been involved in Sri Lankan tourism as a group for over 35 years, we are excited and enthused by the emergence of east-coast tourism. We believe that Trincomalee has the potential to become one of the most sought-after destinations in the country and Chaaya Blu Trincomalee with its new retro-chic look will bridge the present deficit for quality 4-star accommodation. The John Keells Hotels Group is proud to launch one of the first development projects towards promoting east-coast tourism. This will be a first of many investments in the resort sector in strategic locations around the country,� he added.

Adding to the wide range of services offered to the modern traveler, John Keells Hotels Group provides a list of ready made holiday packages and an interactive holiday planner in the website, www.johnkeellshotels.com. The early bird may seek to make the best of the Chaaya Blu introductory web prices by visiting the site. As one of the 4-star Sri Lanka hotels Chaaya Blu Trincomalee will offer easy access to the dazzling beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli. Designed to meet the need for quality Trincomalee hotels in the area, Chaaya Blu Trincomalee with its new look and improved accommodation options will no doubt win the hearts of many a traveler.