Radisson have just announced their fourth hotel in Sri Lanka with the unveiling of the Radisson Collection Resort, Galle. Here we chat to General Manager XAVIER MASSON about the new property and what it offers guests.
Q: Xavier, why are you keen to attract Australian visitors to your property?
A: Australia has a significant outbound travel market with many Aussies seeking beach destinations for their holidays. Their preference for unique, high-quality experiences aligns well with the resort’s luxury offerings.
Australian tourists are also known for their relatively higher spending patterns, making them ideal for luxury properties like the Radisson Collection Resort.
Direct flights and strong air connectivity between Australia and Sri Lanka make Galle an accessible destination for Australian travellers. Also, the combination of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, rich heritage and fresh seafood aligns with Aussies’ preferences for adventure, wellness and authentic culinary experiences.
Targeting Australian visitors during their peak travel times (such as during the Southern Hemisphere winter) can help balance occupancy and revenue during off-peak periods.
Australians often return to destinations they love, presenting an opportunity to build guest loyalty and long-term brand advocacy.
Q: What are your hopes for the hotel now that it’s open?
A: It gives me immense pleasure to welcome guests to Galle, one of the world’s most evocative destinations.
At Radisson Collection Resort, Galle, we are excited to offer exceptional products and services that cater to every traveller’s desire.
Whether exploring the city’s rich history, exquisite architecture and diverse wildlife, or simply unwinding with a beachfront vacation, we are committed to ensuring every moment is memorable, encouraging guests return to this enchanting part of the world again and again.
Q: What type of guest does your hotel cater for?
A: The Radisson Collection is an experiential brand that seamlessly blends contemporary elegance with exceptional comfort, embodying a true luxury lifestyle.
Our resort caters to discerning travellers seeking a harmonious balance of style, substance and sophistication, including families, couples, friends and solo travellers.
It offers a unique blend of luxury and accessibility, tailored to meet diverse guest preferences.
Whether this be wildlife enthusiasts looking to spot whales, watch sea turtles hatch and snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, globe trotters wanting to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history at Galle Dutch Fort and Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya, or families wanting to simply relax poolside while children enjoy the Kids Club and 24-hour nanny services.
Q: What are some of the stand out facilities that guests can enjoy?
A: Nestled directly on the beach near Unawatuna, Radisson Collection Resort, Galle is a luxurious seafront sanctuary. Our 70 guest rooms and 36 suites are all adorned with bright, contemporary interiors, complete connectivity and fantastic views of the Indian Ocean through panoramic windows.
For truly indulgent stays and special occasions, the spectacular 1,200-square-metre Grand Penthouse features five bedrooms, a spiral staircase and an infinity pool.
Guests can spend days relaxing at the beachfront pool while their children are entertained at the kids’ club, with a dedicated soft play zone including interactive features for imaginative play.
Taboo Beach Club (main picture) is a haven of upbeat fun and entertainment throughout the day, with stylish sun lounges, daybeds with bottle service and a magnificent pool overlooking the ocean. Here you can savour expertly crafted cocktails alongside Japanese and Mediterranean tapas with a vibrant beach club atmosphere.
The entertainment calendar here includes DJ music, live music by local and international artists, and fashion shows, creating a premier destination beach club experience while introducing guests to the best regional talent in the south of Sri Lanka.
With an amazing rooftop location, the modern gym is open 24 hours daily and offers a full range of cardio and strength training equipment. Spa facilities include a Relaxation Room, Health Bar, Whirlpool & Steam Room as well as a wide menu of curated private treatments including massages and facials.
Q: What kind of dining options does the hotel offer?
A: The hotel introduces a vibrant social scene poised to become the city’s most sought-after dining destination.
At Catch Restaurant, guests can enjoy an immersive seafood dining experience where they personalise their meals by selecting fresh seafood, the cooking method and their preferred flavour profile.
Signature dishes like Seafood Towers, Sri Lankan mud crab and langoustine prawns showcase the finest ocean flavours, complemented by an extensive wine cellar featuring more than 300 premium wines.
The lively Catch Lounge transitions from a relaxed morning coffee and afternoon tea spot into an exclusive evening destination, featuring live DJ sets, captivating entertainment and expertly crafted cocktails by skilled mixologists.
Namikaze Restaurant & Bar blends the best of Japanese and Asian fusion, offering interactive cooking stations and an array of fresh sushi and grilled dishes, paired with fine wines and cocktails.
The restaurant offers an à la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner in an inviting setting with both indoor seating and a picturesque poolside option, making it the perfect spot for any time of day.
Q: What can guests do in the areas around your hotel?
A: The city of Galle is an exquisite setting for this high-end, highly experiential Radisson Collection brand.
Long stretches of sand such as Unawatuna Beach set the scene for days of serenity and exhilarating water sports, while the old city is centred around the 17th century Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Curious explorers can also discover the local wildlife with visits to the sea turtle hatchery or safaris in the lush forests or immerse themselves in Sri Lankan culture amid ancient temples and colonial architecture.
Just a short drive away, Koggala Lake provides tranquil boat rides and birdwatching opportunities. History enthusiasts will enjoy the Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum, which showcases Sri Lankan culture.
Q: Finally, what sets your hotel apart from others in the location?
A: One of the biggest selling points for the resort is its magnificent beachfront location. Set on Dalawella Beach, the property offers private beach access and uninterrupted views right out to the Indian Ocean.
It’s convenient location also means local landmarks like Galle Ditch Fort, Unawatuna Beach, Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya Temple and the Galle township are all within walking distance.
Our focus is on crafting unforgettable, tailor-made experiences for every guest.
Pictures courtesy Alex Jeffries
https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-collection-resort-galle
