CINNAMON LIFE

AT CITY OF DREAMS SRI LANKA

“We are curating an array of bespoke wellness experiences designed to cater to diverse wellness needs”

Q: What strategies have you implemented to ensure Cinnamon Life remains a top choice for events in Sri Lanka?

Lisa Mendis (LM): My strategies are grounded in a commitment to excellence, innovation and personalised service. It is a holistic approach, instrumental in elevating Cinnamon Life’s status as the premier destination for corporate, social and wedding events in the region.

We have invested in cutting-edge facilities and technology to support a wide range of events. With approximately 160,000 square feet of versatile event spaces both indoors and outdoors that can accommodate intimate gatherings to large conferences, our venues are equipped with advanced audiovisual systems, seamless WiFi connectivity and sophisticated lighting solutions. This ensures that every event runs smoothly, whether it’s a high-level corporate meeting, an international conference or a glamorous social gathering.

At Cinnamon Life, we understand that each event is unique. We take a highly personalised approach to event planning with our dedicated event planning team working closely with clients to craft bespoke experiences. From the initial interaction at the event sales office where we showcase all our products and services – including our food tasting studio – the team goes the extra mile.

We customise decor and personalise catering menus to reflect each client’s vision and brand identity. This attention to detail allows us to exceed client expectations consistently.

In today’s business climate, corporate responsibility and sustainability are top priorities. We integrate sustainable practices into our event operations such as waste reduction, responsible sourcing, energy efficient technologies, and promoting local art and craft, building up communities.

Clients appreciate that they can host events at a venue that aligns with their corporate values, making Cinnamon Life an attractive choice for brands looking to make an impact while remaining environmentally conscious.

Cinnamon Life’s prime location in the heart of Colombo enhances its appeal to international clients, offering easy access as a central hub in the region. Guests – whether travelling for business or leisure – enjoy maximum convenience with proximity to local attractions, culture and business districts.

Leveraging the established reputation of Cinnamon as a homegrown brand known for quality and excellence, Cinnamon Life enhances the brand’s portfolio as the luxury lifestyle addition, offering a sophisticated and upscale experience. Positioned as a high-end destination, Cinnamon Life complements the broader range of Cinnamon hotels, elevating the legacy by consistently delivering exceptional event experiences. Through strategic marketing and strong engagement with industry influencers, it has become the go-to venue for luxury events in Sri Lanka.

We foster exclusive collaborations with top tier partners to position ourselves as the hub for entertainment and lifestyle events. Our prime location enables us to facilitate high value networking opportunities that benefit both our clients and their guests, positioning us as more than just a venue but rather, as a strategic partner in elevating the profile of any event.

By focussing on the above strategic pillars, we at Cinnamon Life continue to set the standard for luxury events. Our commitment is to create unforgettable, seamless and unique event experiences, ensuring that Cinnamon Life remains the destination of choice for high profile global events.

“Cinnamon Life is the most significant private investment in Sri Lanka’s history, giving us a unique edge in attracting international audiences”

Q: How do you balance creativity with commercial goals in event planning and execution?

LM: Balancing creativity with commercial goals is an art and it’s something we strive to master at Cinnamon Life. Every event begins with listening – truly understanding what our clients want and envisioning how we can bring their ideas to life while staying within practical boundaries.

For us, creativity doesn’t mean extravagance – it means innovation, thinking outside the box and finding ways to make each event memorable. At the same time, we remain focussed on commercial objectives. For example, while designing a luxurious gala or corporate event, we ensure that resources are used efficiently, budgets are optimised and the client sees value at every stage.

It’s about blending storytelling with strategy – creating events that resonate emotionally while being commercially viable. By fostering open communication between our creative teams and operational units, we achieve this balance seamlessly.

Q: Having worked with organisations of international repute, how do you integrate global practices into your current role?

LM: Having had the privilege of working with renowned international hotel brands in various capacities, I’ve gained invaluable insights into global best practices that I now integrate into my role at Cinnamon Life. My experience with pre-opening teams for global hotel brands such as Taj and Accor has taught me the importance of laying a strong foundation – from setting clear operational standards to fostering a culture of service excellence that aligns with international client expectations.

At Cinnamon Life, I’ve been able to blend these global practices with our unique Cinnamon culture, which we call ‘Cinnamantra.’ This ensures that every event we host combines world-class standards with a distinctive Sri Lankan touch.

One of my key contributions has been the creation and implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) that establish a clear framework for delivering consistency and excellence in every event. By ensuring these SOPs are followed, we maintain a seamless, high quality service standard across all our event offerings, and ensure all cross-functional teams are aligned and work in synergy.

I firmly believe that it’s the fusion of international expertise with local insight that makes Cinnamon Life stand out as a true luxury destination for events in Sri Lanka. Our commitment to delivering personalised, sophisticated experiences, backed by global practices, ensures that we consistently exceed the expectations of our clientele while staying true to our Sri Lankan heritage.

Q: How is Cinnamon Life adapting to the evolving demands of the events sector and customers?

LM: The events sector has evolved and transformed especially in the past few years, and we’ve embraced this evolution wholeheartedly. Hybrid events, sustainability and personalised experiences are no longer just trends – they are expectations.

At Cinnamon Life, we’ve invested in technology to enable seamless virtual and hybrid experiences, ensuring our clients can connect with audiences anywhere in the world. We’ve also focussed on curating wellness breaks and immersive activities to cater to attendees who want more than merely business as usual.

Whether it’s offering locally inspired cuisine, wellness focussed team building activities or sustainable event options, we’re always listening to what our clients and attendees need. By staying agile and curious, we position ourselves as a forward-thinking venue that evolves with the sector.

“We foster exclusive collaborations with top tier partners to position ourselves as the hub for entertainment and lifestyle events”

Q: What sets Cinnamon Life apart as a venue for events in Sri Lanka?

LM: Cinnamon Life isn’t simply a venue – it’s an experience. What sets us apart is our ability to combine scale and personalisation. We can host thousands of guests across our state-of-the-art spaces while ensuring that each attendee feels special.

Our iconic cantilevered ballrooms with breathtaking views of Colombo’s skyline are one of a kind in South Asia and create an unparalleled ambience for high profile events.

Beyond the physical spaces, it’s the people who make the difference. Our team is passionate, skilled and dedicated to creating seamless events that reflect each client’s unique vision.

Whether it’s a corporate conference, wedding or cultural showcase, Cinnamon Life provides a canvas that transforms into something extraordinary for every occasion. We’re not just hosting events – we’re setting new benchmarks in Sri Lanka and beyond.

Q: And what are your long-term goals for Cinnamon Life’s events division?

LM: Our long-term goal is to establish Cinnamon Life as South Asia’s premier destination for events. We aim to attract not only regional clients but also global conferences, exhibitions and celebrations that put Colombo on the world map. Achieving this requires continual investment in infrastructure, technology and most importantly, our people.

We’re also committed to sustainability and inclusivity, ensuring that our events division reflects the values of the modern world. By partnering with global organisations and tapping into emerging markets, we aim to make Cinnamon Life synonymous with excellence in events – where innovation meets Sri Lankan charm.

Q: How do you plan to leverage Sri Lanka’s largest private investment to attract international events and audiences?

LM: Cinnamon Life is the most significant private investment in Sri Lanka’s history, giving us a unique edge in attracting international audiences. Our world-class facilities, including over 160,000 square feet of event space, luxurious accommodations and curated dining experiences, make us the ideal choice for international conferences and events.

We actively engage with industry leaders, collaborate with strategic partners and participate in global trade shows showcasing our venue’s potential to event organisers worldwide. Our ability to offer a one stop solution – accommodation, dining and event spaces under one roof – makes us highly competitive.

With Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and rich culture as a backdrop, Cinnamon Life offers not only an event venue but a destination experience. Our goal is to make Colombo the go-to city for global events with Cinnamon Life as the cornerstone of that vision.

Q: What is your vision for the wellness concept at Cinnamon Life and how do you plan to make it stand out in South Asia’s luxury wellness market?

Neil Hewerdine (NH): My vision is to create an immersive wellness journey that combines the latest in luxury wellness with Sri Lanka’s unique cultural influences. Cinnamon Life is not only positioned as South Asia’s largest integrated resort but as a pioneer in wellness offerings in the region.

By introducing advanced wellness technologies alongside indigenous Sri Lankan practices, we create an experience that offers guests a holistic sanctuary where they can retreat, rejuvenate and reconnect. The concept is designed to exceed global standards while celebrating the essence of Sri Lanka, making Cinnamon Life a true standout in South Asia’s luxury wellness market.

Q: Given your extensive experience in revamping wellness divisions, what unique elements are you bringing to the table to ensure an exceptional guest experience?

NH: With over three decades in wellness management, I’ve come to understand that attention to detail and personalisation are key. At Cinnamon Life, I plan to incorporate personalised wellness journeys that cater to each guest’s unique preferences and needs.

From bespoke treatments created by wellness experts to immersive multi-sensory experiences that utilise innovative technologies, we are designing every detail to exceed expectations. I’ve introduced highly successful concepts at Atlantis and Burj Al Arab; and at Cinnamon Life, we’ll be setting the bar even higher with services and treatments that are rarely seen in the region.

Q: How are you integrating local wellness traditions or practices into the wellness offerings?

NH: Sri Lanka has a rich heritage in Ayurveda and traditional healing practices, and incorporating these into our wellness offerings at Cinnamon Life is both a priority and privilege. Our wellness team is working with local Ayurvedic experts to design treatments that not only rejuvenate the body but also promote a deeper connection to Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.

We are offering traditional herbal therapies, meditation and natural healing treatments using locally sourced ingredients, bringing authenticity to the wellness journey for our guests.

Q: Could you share some details on the types of bespoke wellness experiences you aim to introduce at Cinnamon Life?

NH: At Cinnamon Life, we are curating an array of bespoke wellness experiences designed to cater to diverse wellness needs. Some of the signature experiences will include immersive sound therapy sessions, personalised yoga and meditation classes, and exclusive retreats guided by renowned wellness practitioners.

We’re also introducing tailored wellness programmes focussing on holistic fitness, mindfulness and nutrition that are crafted to deliver lasting results for guests. The concept is designed so that every guest can experience something truly unique, whether they’re here for a weekend getaway or more extended wellness retreat.

Q: Being positioned as South Asia’s largest resort, how do you balance scale with the personalised attention that wellness experiences typically demand?

NH: Balancing scale with personal attention is a challenge, yet it’s a cornerstone of our wellness philosophy at Cinnamon Life. We are strategically designing wellness spaces that provide intimate environments even within a large-scale setting.

Private consultation lounges, bespoke treatment rooms and small group sessions ensure that guests feel the undivided attention and care they deserve. My experience managing high capacity resorts has taught me the importance of creating zones of personal space and offering dedicated wellness guides who will curate each guest’s experience.

Q: In your view, what role does sustainability play in the wellness concept and how are you incorporating it into the guest experience?

NH: Sustainability is deeply embedded in Cinnamon Life’s wellness concept. We are focussing on eco-friendly materials in our spa construction, minimising waste and prioritising local, organic products for treatments.

Additionally, we’re partnering with environmentally conscious brands that align with our vision. Our approach also extends to educating our guests on sustainable wellness practices they can incorporate into their lives beyond their stay. By integrating sustainability seamlessly into the wellness journey, we are creating an experience that aligns with our guests’ values and the ethos of Cinnamon Life.

Q: What trends in wellness and leisure are you most excited to incorporate into Cinnamon Life’s offerings, and how do you see them evolving in the future?

NH: The wellness sector is evolving rapidly and at Cinnamon Life, we are at the forefront of these changes. I’m particularly excited about the integration of technology in wellness such as AI driven wellness assessments and VR-based relaxation experiences.

Additionally, wellness tourism has shifted towards a greater emphasis on mental and emotional wellbeing, and we are developing programmes that offer guests tools for mindfulness, stress management and holistic health.

I foresee wellness experiences becoming increasingly tailored and immersive, and our focus at Cinnamon Life is to keep evolving to offer cutting-edge wellness that meets these future demands.

– Compiled by Tamara Rebeira

Telephone 2220000  |  Email hello@cinnamonhotels.com  |  Website www.cinnamonlife.com