The Fortress in Sri Lanka set to open final quarter 2005

Per Aquum’s latest venture The Fortress, located on the Southern tip of Sri Lanka, near the historic town of Galle is fast taking shape and is set to open in the final quarter of 2005.

Sir Lanka is a country that is working hard to rebuild itself following the devastating effects of the recent tsunami. International visitor figures as of October 2004 were over 400,000 and rising. Now they have dropped considerably and as tourism is the best way to help the country recover, the government is keen to ensure they return. With this in mind the Ministry of Tourism and the Sri Lanka Tourist Board have joined forces to develop short to long term recovery plans for many the affected areas including Galle and Koggala. These recovery plans include government concessions to hoteliers and tour operators who are rebuilding their businesses together with a massive drive to encourage resorts to reinvent themselves.

Recreating history, The Fortress will be stylised on the powerful ancient Dutch Fort, echoing the historic days of Old Ceylon, Modern Asia. The property will feature 49 sensual guest rooms with a naturally modern twist including 6 two-storey Ocean Lofts with private pools and 2 Fortress Residences. These Residences will offer the utmost in private accommodation showcasing a stunning cantilevered pool from the second story balcony allowing guests a panoramic view from the bedroom over the infinity edged pool to the Indian Ocean.

Inside The Fortress guests will be able to leave the stresses of modern life behind and relax by the dazzling free form pool or in the beautifully landscaped gardens with day beds, hammocks and stunning water features. The property will also boast two restaurants serving Sri Lankan and international cuisine, a bar, wine cellar and traditional Sri Lankan tea room. For those who enjoy a deeper sense of relaxation, a trip to the Sen Spa is a must. Guests will be able to indulge in a range of indigenous Ayurvedic treatments and international therapies in either a single or double treatment room. The spa will also feature ‘Degrees’ with a sauna, steam and hydro-bath for total relaxation both pre and post treatment. A fully equipped gymnasium and yoga pavilion will complete the spa experience.

Scot Toon, General Manager The Fortress said, “One of the key messages originating from Sri Lanka following the tsunami is that tourism must continue. It is the lifeblood of many of the population here who rely on the industry for their livelihood. With the opening of The Fortress towards the end of the year, Per Aquum aims to bring the spotlight back to Sri Lanka in terms of luxurious accommodation, encouraging worldwide recognition for the destination and an increase in the number of visitors. In fact we are so confident in the recovery of the destination that I have personally invested in Fortress Resorts.”

Tom McLoughlin, Managing Director of Per Aquum added, “The Fortress is set to open at the beginning of the peak tourist season when Sri Lanka is often viewed as being at its best. The beaches, the culture, the hill country and people are what have earned Sri Lanka the name “Pearl in the Indian Ocean.” This reputation will stand strong during the aftermath of the tsunami and will stay in people’s minds encouraging them to come back. We are very much looking forward to assisting with the recovery and being a key part of the future of the Sri Lankan tourism industry.”

Although the region around Galle was hit by the Tsunami, The Fortress itself was not affected and this meant that construction could resume once a full site inspection had been carried out. The area is also rapidly returning to normal with volunteers helping to clear and restore and foreign aid assisting with the rebuild.

With international aid pouring into the country and high profile personalities, such as record breaking Australian spin bowler Shane Warne lending their support, the country will recover. Investment is also key and many international agencies are sourcing ground-breaking properties in which to invest and thereby assist with the recovery. The Fortress is one such property and Tom McLoughlin, Managing Director of Per Aquum Resorts & Spas and Scot Toon, General Manager of The Fortress have recently invested personal monetary funds into the publicly listed company The Fortress Ltd. This investment is not only a concrete signal of their confidence in the revival of the Sri Lankan tourism industry, but will ultimately ensure the creation of a world class tourist destination that is ready to compete on the international hospitality scene.

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