Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa, declared opens the newly refurbished Avenra Beach Hotel – Hikkaduwa recently. Hikkaduwa Avenra Beach Hotel is a beautiful hotel that is located on a strip of land between the sea and, taking maximum advantage of the beach front. Avenra Hotel consists of 60 rooms, swimming pool, conference and banqueting hall which can seat 450, restaurant and many more facilities for tourists. The hotel is equipped to ensure a relaxed and fun weekend away from the hustle and bustle of Colombo. Rs. 500 million was utilized for the transformation of Avenra Beach Hotel. Avenra Beach Hotel accommodates local holiday makers well as international travelers. The target international markets are Europe and China. This hotel will create employment for youth in the area in addition to boosting income and business opportunities to the self-employed, micro enterprises. Parliament Member Sudharshani Fernadopulle, Provincial Council Minister Nimal Lanza and Chairman of the Avenra group Dhanesh De Silwa also participated at this occasion. (MED)