By Rama Gaind.
For generations, guests have been enchanted by the Galle Face Hotel’s nostalgic charm, rich heritage and impeccable service in Columbo, Sri Lanka.
One of Asia’s most historic hotels – Galle Face Hotel – is embarking on an exciting new era as it creates engaging, immersive experiences that resonate with old and new generations of travellers.
No visit to Sri Lanka is complete without staying at this majestic hotel, built in 1864 and recently restored back to its former glory. The well-known landmark, along the seafront, faces the famous Galle Face Green.
The hotel is unique in Asia’s hospitality industry and has been owned by the one family for more than a century. It is also passionately independent, having repeatedly resisted approaches from many top international hotel brands.
Since it opened 154 years ago, this hospitality landmark has hosted some of the world’s most famous figures, including Che Guevara, Mark Twain, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Vivian Leigh, Roger Moore, Sir Arthur C. Clarke, Carrie Fisher and Anthony Bourdain.
Located in the heart of Colombo, this iconic hotel has a new general manager and area vice-president in Robert C. Hauck, who is working hard to re-establish its position as Asia’s most illustrious hotel.
Robert C. Hauck is the new general manager and area vice-president of Sri Lanka’s iconic accommodation houses – the Galle Face Hotel.
The hotel’s owner, Sanjeev Gardiner, said the Galle Face Hotel was an iconic property with a rich back-story and unrivalled guest list.
“Having recently undergone extensive renovations, we needed an exceptional executive to lead us into a new era,” Mr Gardiner said. “Robert is a smart, sophisticated and energetic hotelier with a deep understanding of the hospitality industry, especially in Asia. This makes him the perfect person to write the next exciting chapter in our hotel’s illustrious history.”
Mr Hauck said it was an honour and a privilege to be appointed to lead the Galle Face Hotel.
“With Sri Lanka’s tourism industry now flourishing, we want to create a brand that respects the past while looking ahead to the future,” Mr Hauck said. “We have a great opportunity to restore the Galle Face Hotel to its rightful place as Asia’s leading heritage hotel, and I look forward to working with the entire team as we step out on this exciting journey together”.
High qualifications
Robert C. Hauck, a highly skilled and respected hospitality professional with more than 25 years of experience, has been chosen to lead this exquisite heritage hotel into a new era of excellence.
Sri Lanka’s iconic landmark, the Galle Face Hotel, is situated in the heart of Colombo, along the seafront and facing the famous Galle Face Green.
With qualifications from Cornell University and École Hôtelière Montreux, the famous Swiss hospitality school, Mr Hauck has worked for some of the world’s leading hotel groups including Raffles and Shangri-La in an impressive career that has spanned more than ten countries and territories.
Most recently he was GM of Kanuhura, the luxury resort in the Maldives, which he successfully re-launched following a multi-million-dollar renovation and led to a series of prestigious awards.
At the Galle Face Hotel, he joins illustrious company as the 36th GM and second German national in the position following Mr Stchutz (1902-1914). This is a property with a reputation for legendary staff including Kottarapattu Chattu Kuttan, who welcomed famous dignitaries to the hotel in a career spanning 72 years making him the longest serving doorman in the world.
He is now in charge of creating unsurpassed guest experiences that reflect the warmth, culture and elegance of Sri Lankan hospitality.
One of the oldest hotels east of the Suez, the Galle Face Hotel embraces its rich history and legendary traditions. It features graceful interiors that combine classical charm with modern amenities. The hotel’s 1864 Restaurant & Wine Bar reflects this exquisite style with an outstanding contemporary menu and an extensive wine list, while The Verandah serves exceptional local cuisine overlooking the Indian Ocean. Guests can also follow in the footsteps of the world’s most notable writers at The Traveller’s Bar.
Added extras
No visit to Sri Lanka is complete without staying at the majestic Galle Face Hotel, built in 1864 and recently restored back to its former glory
A recent addition has been the launch of ‘Pimms O’clock’, a 24-hour affair that brings back the sensibilities of lazy summer days, but is popular at the hotel from about 5pm as the sun sets over the seafront and a bagpiper plays for the 6pm flag lowering ritual.
Drawing on the inspiration of guests from the 1950s, including the likes of Che Guevara, the oceanfront Latino concept features retro décor and a roster of entertainment where guests will dance the mambo to the songs of Pérez Prado and Tito Puente.
Now you can take advantage of some special holiday packages on offer. If you purchase and reserve your stay with the Galle Face Hotel at least seven days in advance, you will be eligible to receive up to 15% off of the room rates for a two-night stay or more.
The offer is valid throughout the year except from 20 December 2018 to 10 January 2019. Also ask about their Discover Sri Lanka package or book a memorable honeymoon experience.
You can also have an adventure on the island through its collection of signature properties across Sri Lanka!
DETAILS BOX
Galle Face Hotel
2 Galle Road, Colombo 3
Sri Lanka
T: +94 11 254 1010
Fax: +94 11 254 1072
