12th October 1997

Come, relax in luxury

Astatue of Triton, the sea god of Greek mythology stands large at the entrance, a symbol of the power of the sea. The myth states that Triton possessing a body of a man and the tail of a fish, blows his conch shell horn and by doing controls the sea. Living in a golden palace at the bottom of the sea, he is regarded as a friend who traversed the ocean and guided those he befriended to safety. This spectacular image sets off the elaborate and impressive Triton Hotel, Ahungalla.

Sixteen years ago, this was a bare patch of land when Aitken Spence Hotel Management (Pvt) Ltd. decided to build a five star hotel overlooking the sea, aptly naming it after Triton.Starting off with just 125 rooms they got off the ground. The addition of deluxe suites gave it a boost and in 1987, Triton Hotel was officially declared a five star hotel by the Ceylon Tourist Board and recognised internationally as a four star hotel.

1992 brought about a new change at Triton, the refurbishment of the rooms with the addition of forty more rooms and a pool known as the 'Triton Blue" reserved exclusively for the residential guests, giving them the extra luxury of a mini 'Spa' to relax and enjoy the fresh air. Added to this exclusivity are the three V.I.P luxury rooms.

The standard room can make a guest feel at home. Bright and airy, the cane furniture blends beautifully with the sea and beach atmosphere. Decorated with cheerful Sri Lankan motifs and fittings, the vibrant colours of the patchwork quilts all provide a colourful touch. All rooms are equipped with mini-bar and TV featuring international channels and in-house movies. A private balcony overlooks the beach.

As for those who wish to relax in luxury, the Triton has other choices too, like nine luxury suites, five mini- suites and four deluxe rooms. Here, space pre-dominates, with king-size four poster beds, extensive lounge areas for freedom of movement, luxurious marble tiled bathrooms gleaming with sophistication, not to mention complementary wine and fruit that make one feel warm and welcomed.

With Greek mythology playing a prominent role at Triton, it would come as no surprise to find the bar is called Bacchus, named after the Dionysian god of spirits. Unlike the rest of the hotel the Karoake lounge set amidst the bar is a cozy, secluded area. The Wall bar facing the "Triton Blue" pool has a significant history behind its unusual name. This is due to the problems encountered with the villagers when it was refurbished. This property was the boundary of the hotel initially and the villagers refused to comply with the management in redeeming the land. Thus the wall was built by the hotel and brought down by the villagers several times before it was finally constructed. Hence the bar's memorable name.

Another feature is the main restaurant which is set almost in the middle of the hotel with views of the sea, the pool, and shady cool trees. It can accommodate around 200 guests at one sitting. Added to this is the pool side bar, coffee shop, and the supper club giving you a variety of choices of where to dine.

There's something for everyone by way of entertainment with the Karoake night , Devil Dancing, Kandyan dancing, Fire Limbo and for those who prefer a different type of entertainment piano music, Violin, and live bands for disco lovers.

Triton Hotel caters mainly to the an up-market clientele so their prices may not fit into the budget books. But there's a very special weekend package for two at Rs. 3,750.

The standard room rates would cost full board Rs 2,400 single, double Rs 3,750 with a triple costing Rs 5,250 nett. per night.

A variety of excursions await the more adventurous traveller.A 2km ride on a bullock cart takes you to where transportation awaits to whisk one off to Balapitya. From there you can cruise on a high speedboat to one of the 65 islands called 'Triton Duwa' where a 'Champagne Breakfast' is provided. Then it's off to a safari around the vast expanse of water encircling the sixty four islands where the air replete with the sound of singing birds and then back for a late lunch. For the fun loving guests a B.B.Q afternoon is arranged on the Duwa which can accommodate around 200 people but this safari should include 25 people in order to be arranged. This adventurous journey has its costs. The 'Champagne Breakfast' costs 800 per person and the B.B.Q costs Rs. 2000 per person because of extra equipment. In addition to this, visitors also get an exotic tour around the Balapitiya village in open safari jeeps. On this tour they are taken to the Turtle Hatchery farm and given the chance to experience the taste of toddy.

Triton has the advantage of a beautiful beach which in low tide stretches for about 100 metres. One could still walk in the sea another mile to reach deep waters. Swimming and body surfing are a joy here. The other aspect to this elegant place is that it emphasises personalised service to both local and foreign guests.

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