COLOMBO: Club Hotel Dolphin has been bestowed with the prestigious HolidayCheck Award 2012 for being one of 99 most popular hotels worldwide in the ‘Beach Holiday’ category in January 2012. A part of the Serendib Leisure Group, it is the only hotel in Sri Lanka to win the HolidayCheck Award and HolidayCheck Top Hotel prize - both of which was awarded at the ITB, the world’s leading travel trade-show which was held early March 2012 in Berlin. The hotel is managed by Serendib Leisure Management, which is a subsidiary of the diversified Hemas Group of Companies. HolidayCheck officials cited “extraordinary performance exceeding guests’ expectations regarding great products and perfect service on a daily basis - an effort that reflects in hotel reviews” as the main criteria for the hotel’s selection. The HolidayCheck Award is awarded to the 99 most popular hotels worldwide. The winners were decided based on over 530,000 genuine reviews received in 2011. This accolade reaffirms the superior service levels provided by the hotel staff, which is the prime reason for the large number of repeat tourists who keep coming back to the hotel. Mr. Ranil de Silva, Managing Director – Serendib Leisure, commented on the accolade, “We are extremely delighted to be awarded the HolidayCheck 2012 Award and HolidayCheck Top Hotel prize under the ‘Beach Holiday’ category! Being chosen as a recipient of this award reaffirms the uniqueness of our resort property and our pursuit of excellence in guest relations. This award will ensure that Club Hotel Dolphin becomes the first choice as the best beach holiday destination in the world.” Club Hotel Dolphin is situated at Waikkal and is easily accessible from the international airport and the commercial capital of Colombo. The Hotel features two swimming pools, pool-side bars and a bar/lounge offering signature cocktails and cuisine. Recreational amenities include an outdoor pool and a fitness facility, along with a host of indoor and outdoor activities. There is also a full-service health spa on-site. The property also has a well appointed business centre and 151 air-conditioned rooms and villas with all modern amenities.

Interested in Whale and Dolphin watching? Well come to Sri Lanka and be amazed as the intelligent fish swim past you waving their big tail in a friendly gesture. Sri Lanka has become one of the coolest spots to watch the Whales and Dolphins since our coastline falls within a main whale and dolphin migration route. There are many places and options to see whales and dolphins in Sri Lanka, they are; • East coast of Trincomalee, • Remote locations in Alankuda beach in Kalpitiya, • Mirissa, • Dondra point down south, Apart from the above, there have been Whale and Dolphin sightings in the western coastal cities of Alutgama, Ambalangoda and Hikkaduwa. So why don’t you add some sweet memories of this sociable creatures while you are engrossed in Sri Lankan beauty.

This is the best time to enjoy the cuddly leopard cubs’ emergence to the world of wild wild life. Beyond the leopard skin you will only see the peak of innocence as the proud mother watches the young cubs at childlike play. The leopard milksops are one of the rare and beautiful moments at Yala National Park so join us as to explore the beauty inside the thicket.

The Festival of Lights or Deepawali which is commonly known by many is one of the most important times of the year for Hindus. Surrounding all the family members it is a very inspiring occasion as they prepare their homes to welcome Goddess Lakshmi by lighting many oil lamps washing the area in its golden hue. The oil lamp acts for the symbolic meaning of the triumph of good over evil, and fire crackers for the chase away the demon spirits. It is a joyful moment where the bonds of the family get stronger and little blossoms fill themselves with sweet delicacies.

Kick away your flip-flops and dance on the foamy waves or keep on your flip-flops and see the surf pros at their peak. Listed as one of the Top ten surf spots in the world, the name “Arugambay” has created waves in the fashion world and also in the surf world. During the holiday Season Arugambay has already become the annual hot spot for young surfers brimming with youthful vibes. There are several famous break points that have dispersed their breaking levels serving to the surfing guy inside each and every person. `Surf Point’ that breaks in front of Arugambay is ideal for body surfing and the beginners. Pottuvil Point is best for more experienced surfers and crocodile rock is one of the best challenging surf points for surfers who needs a challenge. These are just some of the points out of many varieties. Why don’t you head over here now to feel the Arugambay Thrills?

This calendar event is one to be hold, as it presents so much traditional and historical aspect, it is one event that should not be missed. This happens to be a collaboration of two, the Esla and Dalade. Comprising of Five processions organized by the Maligawa Perahara or also known as Perahara of the Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, which happens to be the most venerated Buddhist temple of Sri Lanka and also the Four shrines dedicated to the Hindu Gods and Goddess. It is a sight not be missed, filled with radiant colours of dances, drummers, Whip Crackers, flag bearers and the graceful elephant robed and illuminated proudly to carry the golden casket called Ransivige containing the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha. The timings of the Kandy Perahara are notified by booming cannon fire which can be heard throughout the city of Kandy. It signifies so much pride as each individual positing is ranked with position and such heritage that is showcased in this event

During the Month of July/August the annual Hikkaduwa Best feast takes flight. Mainly organized by the Sri Lankan Tourist Board, is able to draw large crowds from Colombo and even overseas. So haven’t heard this event, just flow the blast of music extravaganza and the fluttering of the flags as this three day event takes places. The highlights of these events include massive beach parties, live music and even the chance of a few Jazz sessions on the beach. A fabulous weekend for the young and the wild as the Hikka drummer blast their way with long Rave parties and celebrations.

Sri Lankan Arilines in collaboration with ASP is proud to launch Sri Lankan Airlines Pro Surf during the month of June. So surfing dudes, get your surf boards ready for an exciting ride through some of the most famous waves of Arugam Bay. This remote location is a great spectacle for both competitors and spectators. Last year, surfers in formation scored high points surfing these perfect waves. Sri lanka is best known for its vast spectacular beaches and to hold a World Title Event on the shores of Arugam Bay. Sri Lankan Airlines is always promoting Adventure and sports and is proud to be sponsoring these types of events and continue to do so. These events will carter all the needs for all the surfing fans to show off surfing techniques and skills.

Sloth bears are very much big game in Sri Lanka, exclusively. Even though they can be found in the subcontinent, but to able to see these creatures in their natural habitat and get a glimpse of them, take a trip down to Yala. Another way to spot them is in the Wasgomuwa National Park. Their favourite food being Palu (Ironwood Tree), a tall beautiful textured tree , which is in season during the months of June & July, is an ideal time to spot these bears. Remember to pack your camera and to snap a shot as you cruise around the parks and with plenty of berries, they have been reports of them showing inebriation from gorging themselves on the Palu.

Another event that is celebrated during the full moon poya day during the month of June is Poson Poya. A religious event celebrated throughout the Island, in order pay homage to Lord Buddha. During this day, all devotees and pilgrims gather in various Buddhist shrines and temples around the island to celebrate the Dhamma , the teachings of his Lord Buddha, and the Sangha (the Buddhist Monks). At the time 247 BC, Mihintale was the location where Buddhism originated will take on a serene atmosphere as thousands of pilgrims light up oil lamps and incense as they bestow their honour for Lord Buddha. So don’t hold back, take a serene step through these traditional events as the oil lamps light up the whole Island during this “POSON POYA”

Just off the North West Coast of Sri lanka is nested the peninsula of Kalpitiya surrounded by the beautiful Indian ocean and the Puttalam’s lagoon. This makes this place an ideal spot for Kitesurfing which includes spots for both beginners and well experienced riders. So take a chance to surf just over the peacock blue sea and be able to skim the surface of the smooth lagoon. The best season for kitesurfing is during May to December, so book your calendar now for a smooth kitesurfing adventure. This also happens to be the location of the Sri Lanka Kite School catering all types of facilities to the participants. So want to learn kitesurfing and be able to enjoy the richness of this remote location, come down to North West coast for a peaceful yet thrilling adventure.

Another major tourist attraction that has just bloomed up in Sri Lanka is Trincomalee. One of the largest towns in the East Coast and covered in some of the best white sand beaches in Asia. It remains to be one of the few places on the Island for spotting Dolphins and Whales. So if you’re a Dolphin and Whale watcher, take a trip to the east coast to be dazzled by these impeccable creatures. Take a chance to go on a boat trip to spot these wonder animals living in their natural habitat. Another activity that high in its rank is Snorkelling. The huge coral reef that cascade near the pigeon island is an ideal place for any traveller to go snorkelling. These beautiful decorated reefs is an ideal habitat for a large variety of marine life that you can glimpse including the varied number of colourful fishes and even be able to spot turtles if your luck.

As being listed as one of the top ten surf spots in the world Arugam bay offers a complete package deal for all types of surfers, during the month of May known as the ‘surfing season’. So SURFERS be prepared with your surfboards to experience surfing like no other. At Whiskey point, the baby waves are perfect for beginner surfers, while for experienced surfers, the Pottuvil point situated on a deserted beach north of Arugam Bay is ideal. One of the most important aspects is the complete remoteness to the location and simply laid-back lifestyle that takes you away from the main tourist haunts, where waves can go up to 5-6ft and up to 400 meter ‘ride’. The Crocodile Rock is another challenging surfing point for a surfer which is located south of Arugam Bay. So surfers, looking for way to chill out and hit some amazing waves, take the time to come down to the South East Coast of the Island and you might just get the thrill of a lifetime.

On the full moon Poya day in May, Buddhists from across the Island and even worldwide celebrate this most special event “Vesak”. Handmade Lanterns, bright colours of lights and Pandals dazzled the houses, villages and cities. For this special month, Buddhist celebrates the life of Lord Buddha, his birth, enlightenment and also his passing away. It is a festival that is celebrated with such enthusiasm and elaborated preparations. Though this festival celebration might vary in different countries, but the main purpose remains the same. The Vesak day is announced by following the lunar calendar. These radiant colours and decorations tell a story, the life story of Lord Buddha. It also attracts many visitors to many locations that seem to showcase huge lanterns with such considerable design styles and patterns.

To observe a spectacular natural event by the myriad of butterflies that happens to take flight towards the summit of Adam’s peak during the April month. The Summit is also known as the Samanala Kandy (Butterfly Mountain). The season of butterflies is the most amazing natural phenomena that take place. This mass cross-country migration of various species of butterflies has been observed by many visitors. The added mysterious to this natural event is the unbroken formation that is taken as these radiant colored butterflies takes to flight. Many view this migration of butterflies are like pilgrims paying homage to the heart of Sri Lanka while others believe they are simply overflow movements of insects due to the overcrowded caterpillars. For the fact that this natural event is shrouded in mystery certainly heightens the enjoyment and wonder of this spectacular migration.

One of the most religious and traditional months of the year will be dazzled and marvelled by two cultural events that engulfs the whole island for a fun filled festive month. Take a moment to behold the traditional and cultural of both Sinhala and Tamil residents celebrating this most gracious Sri Lankan New Year. On this most religious time, many people visit the various temples around the island and convey special prayers for Lord Buddha and other Gods and Goddesses. Many of the activities include traditional rituals, religious ceremonies, Offer of thanks with a variety of sweet delights and religious prayers. All residential houses are spruced up and the preparation of all traditional food varieties including the traditional milk rice “kiribath” which happens to be served in every house as well as hotels during the start of this festive month. This month not only includes religious events, but fun games in an all outdoor festival sometimes organized by schools and communities. So this festival unfolds not only the traditional aspect but bringing together all locals and their families to celebrate this special event.

During the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, it’s a good idea to flock to the hills to escape the summer heat, and what’s better than visiting the proud and magnificent Nuwara Eliya. This holiday season is made to keep any visitor occupied during the April month and will engulf in a variety of activities. Highlights of the activities include Horse races, Motocross rallies, marathon, Art Exhibitions, Environmental Exhibitions, Flower Exhibitions, summer carnival, sporting events, concerts and not forgetting the Tea Festival highlighting the main product tea and its variety. And if you’re a golf fanatic, so get your gear in shape for there will be several tournaments held in this month including the Stableford Competition for Ladies and Gents. Many of these challenging tournaments will be held at the Nuwara Eliya Golf Course. So be prepared for the month of April for an action packed season in Nuwara Eliya.

The island of Sri Lanka is most gracious enough to spot Whales and dolphins especially during the migration period between December and April. The chances of seeing these magnificent creatures are great during these months. Sperm and Blue whales have their migrating point off Dondra point and so Whale watching trips are arranged in a fully insured trawler boat which can last as long as 3 hours. While Spinner Dolphins can also be spotted off Dondra point, splashing their way which can be a spectacular moment for kids of all ages. Mirissa happens to be the closest point to Dondra point which has great accommodation and offers great packages to Whales and Dolphin watching. It provides all the necessities for the long travel including life jackets and accommodation. Mirissa Water sport, which is a charitable organization helping to generate employment for the affected tsunami survivors, have a great excursion packages and equipment for these trips including other sporting activities like sailing, fishing and coastal cruises for the entire family. So book your special trip during these months and experience these wonderful migration trips of one the greatest animals just off the shores of Sri Lanka.

To all fellow balloonist and friends, have you heard about this existing festival? Still don’t believe, wait till your eyes catches to the radiant colors of hot air balloons and don’t miss the chance to take a trip to the sky, starting in the warm month of March. A wonderful color festival is taken over by 80 international participants from all over the world to join here on this island for a two weeks excursion cum-tour. So if you’re in Colombo, you will not miss the chance to gaze at 22 hot air balloons soaring above at the height of a seven storey building. Sights that are remarkable to be hold and would be the exclusive fourth successive year for this festival, these events are organized by the Sri Lankan Tourism along with the Ceylon Airship and Balloon Club. One of the main highlights of this event will be when the balloons fly in formation with the fixed winged air craft’s.

An event that exposes a complete combination of exhibition, Trade & Investment Symposium, which showcases 300 stalls of quality products on a single platform. Not only does this event create awareness on the conduciveness investment but it also brings forth Sri Lanka’s image as a tourist destination. This event will provide exclusive access to the best selection of this Island’s exporters, product and its wide range of services. Sri Lanka Expo will showcase from Traditional to non-traditional products and services under one roof, with eminent international business leaders as keynote speakers. Over 1000 buyers can have the chance to discuss business, and strategic marking tips and even organize meetings and networking events. This event will also organize the Trade and Investment Symposium, in order to listen to renowned trade dignitaries and Sri Lankan business leaders to shed light on the global potential in trade and investment. So book your calendar during the month of March for this exclusive event organized by the Sri Lanka Export Department Board.

One of the most spectacular events of nature that happens right on the shores of Sri Lanka, don’t miss the chance to see these amazing turtles that been roaming this planet for about 190 million years. Be the first to experience and explore the secrets of these marine turtles. Just south of the coast of Sri Lanka, a nested small village of Rekawa, located between the intermediate and dry climatic zones and borders on a large saline lagoon surrounded by extensive mangrove forest. Rekawa beach is best known to be the nesting grounds for these ancient turtles. Five species of these amazing turtles visit these shores to lay and nest their eggs. Experience the true nature of life in a couple of hours to see these massive turtles lay their eggs and watch them in an all exciting night time adventure. From the beginning of Feb to the end of July, be prepared to be dazzled and marveled by the journey and life of one the most oldies creatures on earth.

The best musical festival that will engulf every Sri Lankan in a mind blowing musical experience is ready to kick off on 24th of August 2012. This three day event will host for so many talents of various artists both Sri Lankan and around the world, that brings colourful fusion of genres for the ears of the lucky souls. Not only will it be the centre stage for a musical sensation, but also a turning point for upcoming artists who are being given the opportunity to showcase their talents. Colombo Music Festival is not only about classy musical performances but also an event that speaks to the mind by hosting workshops, discussions and master-classes. It is predicted that Colombo will have to endure unbearable melodious harmonies from around the globe that would definitely make an individual to experience one of THE best moments in his life. For more details: http://thecolombomusicfestival.com/home.html