New GM aims to make Movenpick Colombo’s most upbeat and happening hotel

By Shannon Jayawardena

Movenpick’s newly appointed General Manager George Koumendakos is set with the task of making the hotel Colombo’s most upbeat and happening.

Situated in the commercial and cultural heart of Sri Lanka’s capital city, the 24-storey hotel brings a touch of altitude and attitude to Colombo’s hospitality scene and is the first five-star hotel to be opened in around 25 years.

“We have many plans lined up for 2018 and I am very pleased to be here. Some people asked me why I have come to Sri Lanka and well I have worked with many locals in the Middle-East and one thing I’ve always noticed is the politeness, friendliness and their support towards everything. So when I was offered the opportunity I took it at once,” Koumendakos said.

With open spaces, modern designs and cool features, Movenpick is the perfect destination for both locals and tourists to enjoy a calm and relaxing stay with its contemporary design, panoramic views and various themed restaurants that serve a wide variety of cuisine food.

Speaking about his first visit to the hotel, Koumendakos stated: “I was here for two days on my first visit and met the owners, moved a little bit around, saw the hotel and thought that it is truly a place I could see myself living for a number of years. Now here I am today.”

The hotel is best known for its panoramic views from all 219 well-appointed rooms, rooftop bar, abundant three themed restaurants, Spa Ceylon outlet, beauty salon, fitness centre, two banqueting venues and six meeting rooms.

The newly appointed GM further addressed the media saying: “I find it very exciting as the people are very helpful and friendly. We were the first international hotel to be inaugurated after Hilton came in and we have come a long way since the opening.”

He emphasised on the fact that they are currently focusing on the outlets as they will be reviving the upstairs business parlour which will commence within the next few months. Likewise they will be enhancing the outlook of the meeting rooms and spaces so that the clients could have fun alongside by playing table tennis and enjoying snacks and drinks.

“We will be hosting the first Japanese chief in town and have many exciting things coming up. We are focused on creating a friendly setting with a nice feel together with a touch of the local culture. Our hotel compromises of a young skilful team and the quality of our food is superb. All in all we want our customers to have a great time during their stay at Movenpick,” Koumendakos added.

Pic by Upul Abayasekara