Luxury hospitality sector

By Ifham Nizam

Luxury hospitality in Sri Lanka has reached new heights with Aviyana, a leisure property that blends bespoke experiences, sustainability and cultural enrichment.

 Speaking to The Island Financial Review about the challenges and opportunities in the luxury travel industry, Shezad Hameed, Director of Operations at Aviyana, shared insights into how the property is transforming Sri Lankan tourism.

 Hameed acknowledged the operational hurdles in maintaining Aviyana’s high standards, including a skilled labor shortage and rising costs. “High turnover rates and wage inflation are persistent challenges in the luxury hospitality sector,” he explained. “We’ve tackled these by investing in talent recruitment, retention strategies, and cost management, such as adopting energy-efficient technologies and renegotiating supplier contracts.”

 Despite these challenges, Aviyana has carved a niche in experiential luxury, appealing to travelers seeking authenticity, personalization, and purpose-driven experiences. “Luxury is no longer about superficial extravagance,” Hameed said. “Today’s travelers prioritize immersive, meaningful connections. At Aviyana, we deliver this through curated adventures that showcase Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.”

 Aviyana offers a wide array of tailored experiences, from private treks in the Knuckles Mountain Range to serene lakeside retreats. “Personalization is at the heart of what we do,” Hameed emphasized.

“From the moment a guest inquires, our team crafts bespoke itineraries tailored to their preferences, whether it’s dietary needs, wellness treatments, or adventurous excursions. Every stay is meticulously curated to ensure it becomes a cherished memory.”

 The property’s eco-conscious practices also set it apart. “Sustainability is integral to our operations,” Hameed noted. “Our ‘BREATHE’ initiative has planted over 3,000 trees, supporting biodiversity and reforestation. We operate a zero-waste policy and source fresh produce from our on-site organic farm. These efforts reflect the global shift towards responsible tourism.”

 Aviyana’s commitment to the community is equally significant. “We employ and train locals from nearby villages, offering them career opportunities with potential for advancement.”

 Understanding the growing demand for experiential travel, Aviyana has devoted half of its 24-acre property to curated activities. “Guests can immerse themselves in cultural workshops, farm-to-table dining, and guided wildlife encounters,” Hameed explained. “We’re also a haven for nature photographers and documentary crews, offering access to untouched ecosystems and stunning landscapes and that’s how we have redefined Sri Lankan hospitality, offering unique adventures on the ground, air, and water.”

 Looking to the future, Aviyana plans to launch an innovative booking system designed to enhance guest experiences further. “Our goal is to craft transformative journeys that resonate with today’s discerning travelers,” Hameed stated.

 He also said Aviyana has become a sought-after haven for nature photographers and documentary crews, offering access to untouched ecosystems, rare wildlife, and stunning landscapes that have yet to be explored, making it ideal for those seeking creative inspiration.

In alignment with global sustainability trends, we integrate eco-conscious practices into every aspect of the guest experience—whether through solar-powered utilities, reforestation initiatives with over 3,000 trees with our ‘BREATHE’ initiative, or our zero-waste policies.

 “We are excited to introduce an innovative booking system tailored to our market segment, which we look forward to unveiling alongside the official launch of bookings,” Hameed said.