Over 750,000 tourists expected in 2011

Dharma SRI ABEYRATNE

Measures have been taken to achieve a 31 percent increase in tourist arrivals next year, a Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority official said.

According to the projected target, over 750,000 tourists were expected to visit Sri Lanka in 2011. Over 620,000 tourists were expected to visit the country this year. Tourism Development Authority statistics reveal that more than 600,000 tourists have visited the country so far this year. However, 620,000 tourist arrivals was considered as a milestone in the tourism industry since over 50,000 tourists have reached the country every month. During the next year, tourist arrivals will significantly increase as a result of the peaceful situation in the country.

It has enabled tourists to visit all parts of the country. Besides, many new tourist attractions and locations situated especially in the North and East are a large number attracting tourists. Nilaveli and Trincomalee are among such eye catching tourist attractions.

'Therefore it is not difficult to achieve the 750,000 target during 2011.

Considering the prevailing favourable situation, this was an easily achievable target," the official added.