Archives

Concessions for journalists at CHC properties

by Tharika Goonathilake

The Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the Ceylon Hotels Corporation (CHC) is extending a series of travel concessions to local media personnel as a token of appreciation for supporting the tourism trade during its many upheavals.

The special array of discounts will be offered at 15 CHC guest houses spread throughout the country.

The new initiative introduced on a request of Tourism Minister Gamini Lokuge, entitles all media personnel to a 25 per cent discount on accommodation, 20 per cent reduction on food and a 15 per cent deduction on beverages.

Media personnel will be entitled to these concessions on presentation of their media identity card issued by the Information Department or their respective newspaper organisations.

"The press has played a vital role in helping Sri Lanka's tourism development initiative throughout the years. They have supported the industry during some trying periods,"

Minister Lokuge said citing the need to "appreciate efforts during good times and encourage more constructive reporting that works for the betterment of the industry." He said these media incentives were also made to encourage constructive suggestions, views on the CHC hotel properties and the facilities on offer, while encouraging domestic tourism.

"The idea is to provide options for travel within the country, without incurring heavy expenses," the Minister said.

He pointed out that several comfort centres/picnic cum rest areas with facilities for local tourist and pilgrims, are being developed in popular tourist areas to support the domestic tourism development drive.

Two centres have already been opened at Bentota and Buduruwagala under this scheme, with several other localities also being ear-marked for these rest centres, the minister said.

The CHC has resthouses in Medawachchiya, Sigiriya, Tissamaharama, Mihintale, Hanwella, Belihuloya, Pussellawa, Mahaella, Polonnaruwa, Seruwa, Weligama, Ambepussa, Dambulla and Habarana.

www.crescat.com

News | Business | Features | Editorial | Security
Politics | World | Letters | Sports | Obituaries

Produced by Lake House
Copyright © 2003 The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd.
Comments and suggestions to :Web Manager