Sri Lanka Travel Mart in June

TRAVEL: The "Sri Lanka - Gateway to South Asia" Travel Mart will be held from June 16 to 18 for the fourth year in succession at the Sirimavo Bandaranaike International Exhibition Centre in Colombo.

A minimum of 200 buyers and 150 international and local exhibitors will participate in this travel mart which has secured a top place in the travel professionals' diary. The media sponsor for the event is Daily News

The event last year received a record number of visitors, and contributed much towards the development of tourism in the region by showcasing Sri Lanka's diverse attractions.

It proved that besides traditional markets such as the U.K., France, Germany and India, many new markets such as China, M/East and South Korea have shown a keen interest by sending large delegations to attend the Travel Mart last year.

"The Sri Lanka Travel Mart is fast growing to be the region's best travel event," Sri Lanka Tourist Board Chairman, Udaya Nanayakkara said.

"While focus on traditional markets, the Travel Mart this year will emphasise on developing markets, including Eastern Europe, Russia and CIS countries, ASEAN, Australia and the U.S.A." said Malraj B. Kiriella, Director Marketing, Sri Lanka Tourist Board.

"The aim of the event is to induce new buyers to visit Sri Lanka and establish connections with new operators who are not working with us at the moment," said Kiriella.

All tourism products of South Asia will be displayed at one location, allowing buyers get a quick overview of the South Asian Tourism product and its potential.

Professional development seminars will educate both buyers and exhibitors, helping them gain a better insight in to the Sri Lankan and South Asian markets, while selected topics will emphasise the South Asian market with presentations made by prominent industry professionals. This year's focus will be on Sri Lanka's cultural diversity.

Those interested could register on-line on or before March 31. Website is www.slgsatravelmart.com