Jetwing welcomes the world: A Sri Lankan sanctuary for global travellers

As Jetwing Hotel evolves to meet the demand of modern travellers, Hashan Cooray, Director and Marketing brings fresh energy to a proud family legacy. Cooray in an interview with 'Sunday Island' shares his vision for the brand from sustainability and youth empowerment to reshaping Jetwing's identity for a new generation.

- ZANITA CAREEM

How has Jetwing hotels adapted to the international travellers' expectations?

We at Jetwing Hotels have always been attentive to traveller expectations, and proactive whenever possible. One of the most notable and recent adaptations is the restructuring of our hotel portfolio into four distinct categories: Jetwing Luxury Reserves, Jetwing Premium Hotels, Select Hotels, and Essentials. This reorganization allows travellers to easily choose accommodations that align with their preferences and budgets, whether they seek high-end luxury, cultural immersion, or practical comfort. Each category maintains our hallmark hospitality while offering tailored experiences to suit different travel styles.

In addition to this structural shift, we have placed a strong emphasis on sustainability and service excellence. We pioneered sustainable tourism in Sri Lanka for over five decades, upholding environmental sustainability and social responsibility across all our properties. These efforts resonate well with international travellers who increasingly value responsible tourism and authentic local experiences. At Jetwing Hotels, we take great pride in our commitment to celebrating Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Properties like Jetwing Vil Uyana in Sigiriya and Jetwing Kaduruketha in Wellawaya reflect this dedication, offering our guests immersive experiences that highlight the richness of Sri Lanka’s agrarian traditions.

Jetwing has placed much emphasis on sustainability efforts. Could you name some of the initiatives?

Late Herbert Cooray, founder of Jetwing, always believed that hospitality could not exist isolated from the local communities and the environment. This philosophy has guided us for over 50 years, long before the term "sustainability" became widely recognized.