UK tour operators now promote and sell Sri Lanka

Shirajiv Sirimane in London

The interest in Sri Lanka as a tourist destination has increased exponentially since the end of the war said, Director - UK and Ireland Sri Lanka Tourism Sanjika Perera.

Speaking to Daily News after the World Tourism Market opening ceremony he said “The UK tour operators who have ignored Sri Lanka in the recent past have begun to promote and sell Sri Lanka.”

“The existing tour operators have seen double digit growth in inquiries and bookings as evidenced from the increased number of arrivals to Sri Lanka from UK. The travel Journalists have showed increased interest and we have seen many positive travel related articles in the UK press on Sri Lanka,” he said.

“The various tour operators are running their own campaigns to promote Sri Lanka. With the increase in demand, we have moved away from short - term offers to full capacity to invest in our country’s brand image and increase yield,” he said. “Britain has helped to rebuild Sri Lanka’s tourist industry.

Britons accounted for 18.5 percent of the foreigners who visited the former colony’s famous beaches, wildlife parks, tea plantations and Buddhist temples last year. Only India sends more tourists,” he said.

“Some of the island’s most beautiful beaches will once more be accessible in the East such as Passikudah and Trincomalee, while Arugam Bay is famous as one of the most prominent surfing destinations in the world.” he said.