A unique demonstration by a group of Sri Lankans living across Europe has drawn attention by urging foreigners to visit Sri Lanka. 

Operating under the banner “Europaye Aluthgama Api”, the collective is made up of Sri Lankans originally from Aluthgama village who now reside in 22 European countries.

Each year, the group gathers in one European nation and stages a demonstration in a main city to promote Sri Lanka under the theme #Visit_Sri_Lanka. 

Their activities include wearing sarongs, singing Sri Lankan songs, distributing leaflets with information about the island, and directly inviting foreigners to travel to Sri Lanka.

This year’s program was held in Graz, Austria, where participants spent their own money to organize the event. 

The group has been praised for their voluntary efforts to promote Sri Lanka internationally. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka is exploring plans to use the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in South Africa as a platform to internationally promote key sectors, including Ceylon Tea and tourism.

A discussion on the proposed promotional initiative was held on Thursday (13) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath said.

Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Air Vice Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, joined the discussion virtually, while Foreign Ministry Director General for Africa Nimal Perera and Sri Lanka Cricket CEO Ashley de Silva also participated.

Senior officials representing the Export Development Board, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, tea promotion sector, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Ministry of Health and Mass Media, Department of Government Information, National Gem and Jewellery Authority and SriLankan Airlines also attended.

The discussions focused on coordinating efforts to promote Sri Lanka and its major sectors internationally alongside the global exposure generated by the Cricket World Cup.

The 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup is scheduled to be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka featured prominently at the Miss Polski 2026 grand final gala, held in the historic Polish city of Nowy Sącz and broadcast live on Polsat.

Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Poland, Priyangika Dharmasena, attended as Guest of Honour at the glittering event, which showcased dance and musical performances, contestant introductions, and dress parades.

The pageant followed a promotional tour hosted by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau from June 7–17, where the 24 finalists and their production crew visited Sri Lanka. 

The bikini segment was filmed on the island, highlighting its scenic attractions and generating wide media coverage in Poland.

During the gala, a presentation on Sri Lanka was screened, capturing the contestants’ experiences, hospitality, and photo shoots across exotic locations, further enhancing the country’s image as a premier tourism destination.

The crown went to Wiktoria Ptak, who now qualifies to represent Poland at Miss Supranational. 

She received a cash prize and two round‑trip air tickets to Sri Lanka for a ten‑day visit with full hospitality, offered by the organizers in collaboration with the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Warsaw. (Newswire)

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The Government of Sri Lanka has unveiled plans to transform Delft Island into the country’s first Zero Emission eco‑tourism destination, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, environmental conservation, and the preservation of its unique natural and cultural heritage.

A special site inspection and stakeholder discussion on the proposed development was held under the leadership of Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe recently. 

The island, renowned for its Dutch‑era ruins, numerous archaeological landmarks, and iconic wild horses, is seen as possessing exceptional tourism potential.

Deputy Minister Ranasinghe told participants that Delft Island should be experienced not only by international visitors but also by domestic tourists. Despite its extraordinary attractions, he noted, the island has so far made only a limited contribution to Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. 

He emphasized the Government’s commitment to unlocking Delft’s full potential through sustainable and environmentally responsible development. 

Discussions focused on identifying priority infrastructure to position Delft Island as a premier tourism destination, with key areas including water supply, road infrastructure, transportation and accessibility. Strengthening community participation was also highlighted, with plans to enhance the knowledge and hospitality skills of local residents to enable them to benefit directly from tourism development.

The Deputy Minister stressed that environmental sustainability will remain the cornerstone of the development strategy. The Government’s vision is to establish Delft Island as a flagship Zero Emission tourism destination, showcasing responsible tourism practices, promoting renewable and sustainable solutions, and serving as a model for eco‑friendly tourism development in Sri Lanka. 

The programme was attended by Jaffna District MP Ilankumaran Karunanathan, Dr. Sribavanadarajah Shanmuganathan, Rajeevan Jeyachandramoorthy, representatives of local political authorities, the Divisional Secretary of Delft, government officials, and members of the local community, who actively shared their views on the island’s future development.

Officials from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) also participated in the visit and discussions. 

The initiative marks an important step towards positioning Delft Island as one of Sri Lanka’s most distinctive sustainable tourism destinations, where environmental conservation, cultural heritage preservation, and community‑based tourism development work together to create a world‑class visitor experience. (Newswire)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has instructed officials to promptly resolve outstanding issues relating to the proposed contributory pension scheme for Sri Lankan migrant workers and ensure its inclusion in this year’s Budget proposals.

Highlighting that overseas workers remain one of the country’s largest sources of foreign exchange earnings, the President stressed the need for a structured and sustainable pension scheme to safeguard their future. He called for swift action to implement the initiative without delay.

The directive was issued while chairing a review of projects implemented under the 2026 budget allocations and the 2027 pre‑budget discussion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, held at the Presidential Secretariat today (16).

Beyond migrant worker welfare, the President also addressed several other areas:

• Tourism funding: Financial allocations for tourism development projects are to be transferred directly to District Secretaries, enabling faster implementation through coordination between District Development Committees and Tourism Committees.
• Integrated development: Programmes proposed by the Road Development Authority around Sigiriya, Galewela and Trincomalee will be jointly implemented with the Ministry of Tourism and the Department of Archaeology to save time and resources.
• Procurement reforms: Officials were instructed to adopt the new procurement framework introduced by the Ministry of Finance, allowing activities to commence from the first week of January each year, with separate interventions for specialised projects such as tourism construction.
• Tourism promotion: Upcoming programmes include the Asian Broadcasters’ Conference, alongside digitalisation initiatives with the Ministry of Digital Affairs to enhance consular services.
• Asset reporting: The President noted that no comprehensive report on assets and lands under the Ministry of Tourism had been prepared previously and directed officials to expedite its completion.
• Workforce training: With the tourism sector expected to require around 800,000 workers by 2030, plans are underway to expand training programmes through hotel schools to meet future demand. (Newswire)

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Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe has invited the public and international visitors to experience the scenic beauty of Uva Paranagama through the Pekoe Trail stages 20 and 21, highlighting horseback travel and organic produce as unique attractions.

“I call visitors around the globe to visit Pekoe Trail stages 20 and 21 in Uva Paranagama. While you travel on horseback, you can also pick fresh, organic pears and taste them. It is an experience, a feeling. You can experience Ceylon tea and organic pears,” Ranasinghe said.

The Deputy Minister made the remarks during a promotional visit to the Lucky Land Estate in Uva Paranagama, where he rode on horseback as part of a tourism promotion activity.  

The event was held under the Ceylon Tea Villages program of 500 tea villages, with Uva Province’s main program taking place yesterday. Riding along the roads of the area, Ranasinghe emphasized the natural beauty and scenic value of the region, positioning it as a destination for sustainable tourism.

Badulla District MP Ravinda Bandara also joined the promotional activity, riding on horseback alongside the Deputy Minister. (Newswire)

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A comprehensive tourism promotion plan covering three zones of the Central Province is being prepared, with the aim of developing biodiversity‑rich and culturally significant sites into attractive destinations. 

The initiative was discussed recently at the Central Province Governor’s Office under the chairmanship of Governor Professor S.B.S. Abeykoon, and attended by UNDP National Programme Manager Ashoka Ajanta.

The Central Provincial Council has identified several locations to be promoted as tourist attractions, with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Department of Tourism jointly implementing the plan. 

Areas recommended include Minipe, Panwila, Ududumbara, Medadumbara, Dambulla, Ambagamuwa, Norwood, Laggala‑Pallegama, and Maskeliya.

Officials said the program is expected to strengthen tourism across these zones, with local government institutions playing a key role in carrying out promotional activities. (Newswire)

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Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism Vijitha Herath told Parliament today (09) that Sri Lanka’s tourism revenues have not declined, but that more accurate figures are now being reported due to the adoption of internationally accepted scientific survey methods. 

Responding to questions raised by MP Ravi Karunanayake under Standing Order 27(2), the Minister explained that earlier survey techniques relied on limited samples which artificially inflated revenue figures, whereas the current methodology reveals the real spending patterns of foreign visitors.

He stressed that tourists’ spending habits in Sri Lanka have not changed significantly, and what has occurred is simply the correction of previously flawed data.

Karunanayake, raising a supplementary question, pointed out that credit card payments made by tourists often bypass the Central Bank’s LankaPay system and flow abroad through external gateways, resulting in a 2.5% loss of foreign exchange.

Minister Herath acknowledged that no mechanism had been in place to address this issue for years, even under past administrations. He noted that the present government has already introduced a tax framework through the budget to collect dues from international digital platforms and payment applications.

He emphasized that while some portion of tourist spending inevitably flows out of the country, a formal system is needed to retain maximum revenue. Legal provisions and technical measures are being introduced rapidly, with integration into LankaPay identified as a key step.

Herath concluded that the government is directly intervening to ensure both constitutional and technological safeguards are in place, underscoring its commitment to strengthening Sri Lanka’s tourism revenue streams. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka’s tourism has marked a historic achievement, with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) reporting 145,745 international visitors in May 2026, the highest number ever recorded for the month. 

According to the latest data from the SLTDA, this reflects a 9.6% increase compared to May 2025, which saw 132,919 arrivals.

India remained the top source market, contributing 60,342 arrivals, followed by the United Kingdom (9,248), China (9,156), Germany (6,734), and Australia (6,414).

Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath hailed the achievement as a turning point for the industry, noting the sharp recovery from just 1,497 arrivals in May 2021. 

“May 2026 is a historic milestone for Sri Lanka Tourism. From just 1,497 arrivals in 2021 to nearly 150,000 today – this is the result of stability, security, and smart policy. Thank you to all travellers who chose Paradise Island,” he said in a statement on social media. 

Full SLTDA report: https://www.sltda.gov.lk/storage/common_media/MonthlyTouritsArrivalsReport-May-2026-Final-1.pdf (Newswire)

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The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, in coordination with the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Warsaw, held a series of tourism roadshows in the prominent cities of Warsaw, Poznan, and Krakow in Poland in May.

According to the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Warsaw, the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau with a delegation from the travel trade of Sri Lanka, namely Golden Isle Travel, Resfebar Holidays, Lavingo Travels, Luxurious Sri Lanka, Blue Lanka Tours,  NKAR , Green Holiday, TAT, Aitken Spence Travels, Temple Tree Resort & Spa,  Connaissance de Ceylan, Jetwing Travels, Tourblue and Warkers Tours participated in the events with Polish tourism entities including Polish travel companies, and the media.

The Roadshows, held on 11,13 and 15 May, commenced with the ceremonial opening, where guests were taken to the event venues through traditional dance performances from the Sri Lankan dance troupe “Sri Ridma Dance Academy” from Naples, Italy, to the beating of drums. A tourism promotional video followed, showcasing the vibrant beauties of Sri Lanka to the audience.

Alighting the traditional oil lamp by guests and speeches by Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Poland, Priyangika Dharmasena, and Deputy Director of the Sri Lanka Tourism Bureau, Masitha De Thabrew ensued, after which lively dance performances were held for the Polish spectators.

In her address, Ambassador Dharmasena highlighted the beauties of Sri Lanka, which had been crowned as the “Most Beautiful Island in the World in 2025 by the global travel platform EnjoyTravel.com. She also underscored the importance of Poland as a growing source market for tourism to Sri Lanka, with 44, 989 visiting the country in 2025 and more potential for growth, as Sri Lanka targets 03 million tourists globally for 2026.

A networking session that followed was the most important item on the agenda, enabling the Sri Lankan travel companies to engage actively with their Polish counterparts seeking to build partnerships to enhance tourism activities of both sides.

During the Warsaw Roadshow, a presentation was made by Pawel Jagiello, a prestigious Polish photographer, depicting the beauties of Sri Lanka through photography in Sri Lanka.  At the end of the segment, books of photography were presented to Ambassador Dharmasena and Deputy Director De Thabrew. (Newswire)

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The America -Sri Lanka Photographic Art Society (ASPAS), in collaboration with the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Los Angeles and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), hosted “The Beauty of Sri Lanka”, a vibrant photographic and art exhibition recently (25), celebrating the island nation’s rich cultural heritage, artistic traditions, and natural splendour.

According to the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Los Angeles, the event brought together distinguished guests, travel enthusiasts, foreign diplomats, cultural organizations, media personnel and friends of Sri Lanka in an atmosphere of cultural and artistic expression. 

The ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Consul General of Sri Lanka in Los Angeles, Achini Perera and Guest of Honor and Keynote Speaker Senior Scientist at NASA/JPL, Dr. Sarath Gunapala.

The exhibition was officially inaugurated with a ceremonial unveiling, followed by a traditional oil lamp lighting and the observance of the national anthems of Sri Lanka and the United States. 

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest emphasized the importance of promoting Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural heritage on the global stage, particularly with a view to attracting a greater number of tourists from the United States. 

The Consul General noted that the United States ranked eighth among tourist source markets to Sri Lanka in 2025 and highlighted the significant potential to further increase arrivals through enhanced awareness and targeted promotional efforts among U.S. travellers.

The Consul General also commended the initiatives of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau in advancing tourism outreach across the Americas. 

She specifically appreciated the Bureau’s continued collaboration with Sri Lanka’s diplomatic missions in the United States and Canada in organizing the annual photographic exhibition, recognizing it as an effective platform for showcasing the country’s unique attractions and strengthening tourism promotion efforts in the region.

Dr. Sarath Gunapala, in his keynote speech titled “Journey of Infrared Photography,” shared insights into the art and science of photography, while President of ASPAS, Suriya Perera, highlighted the role of art in fostering cultural connections.

The programme featured traditional Sri Lankan performances, showcasing the country’s rich performing arts heritage. The event concluded with a presentation of certificates and plants to participating children in recognition of their contributions.

“The Beauty of Sri Lanka” exhibition served as a platform to promote Sri Lanka as a unique travel destination and strengthen cultural ties. The exhibition series will continue in Toronto, PRUN in New York and the Sri Lanka Embassy in Washington, D.C. on April 27, April 29, and May 2, respectively. (Newswire)

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A Japanese delegation of 11 members, in Sri Lanka for tourism promotion under the coordination of Connaissance De Ceylan, one of the country’s leading tourism companies, visited the Presidential Secretariat on Saturday (14).

According to the President’s Office, the primary objective of the delegation was to study and gain a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s people’s history, the introduction and development of Buddhism, traditional culture, Ayurveda, customary practices, food culture and key economic crops.

They also discussed possible initiatives to further develop the tourism industry between the two countries through such engagement and stated that they would share the knowledge and insights gained during the visit with the people of Japan. 

Discussions were also held on promoting Sri Lanka as a leading tourist destination in Japan and showcasing the country’s cultural heritage to the international community, focusing on locations such as Colombo, Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, Mahiyanganaya and Kandy.

In addition to the Presidential Secretariat, the delegation also visited a number of notable locations, including Sapugaskanda Purana Viharaya, Mihintale, Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, Dambana, Malwathu Maha Viharaya and the Port City Colombo. (Newswire)

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The Sri Lanka Tourism Alliance has launched its latest tactical campaign burst, “Love Sri Lanka, Always,” positioning the island as a destination to discover and rediscover year-round. 

The initiative was unveiled as part of a global digital rollout aimed at reshaping travel perceptions and addressing the challenge of demand-driven seasonality.

Malik Fernando, Co-Chair of the Sri Lanka Tourism Alliance, said: “Sri Lanka is a destination that constantly surprises and delights. Through this tactical campaign, we are inviting travellers to see the island in a new light, to experience its culture, nature, and festivals during times that fall outside the traditional season. We are also addressing a key issue of demand-driven seasonality, and our goal is to position Sri Lanka as a truly year-round destination.”

The campaign emphasizes time-specific cultural, wildlife, and natural experiences, encouraging travellers to explore beyond traditional peak travel windows.

It also highlights Sri Lanka’s strong recovery following recent flooding, with tourism operations fully resumed and communities welcoming visitors safely.

Through cinematic films, evocative photography, and digital storytelling, “Love Sri Lanka, Always” showcases unique seasonal spectacles such as the Minneriya elephant gathering, Vesak lanterns, and the Kandy Perahera festival. 

The campaign is being delivered globally across digital platforms and media, strengthening the Love Sri Lanka platform as a central hub for inspiration and trip planning. (Newswire/ Voyager’s World)

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Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe says a special QR code system will be introduced for the tourism sector to obtain fuel.

Speaking to the media today, Deputy Minister Ranasinghe said that a discussion was held today, and the authorities hope to introduce the special QR system by this evening.

“A similar system was introduced in the past. A discussion took place today. We hope to introduce the new system by this evening with the aim of ensuring that those in the tourism sector can carry out their work without any issues,” he said. 

Deputy Minister Ranasinghe said that all necessary plans in this regard have been completed.

He further stated that there was a 25-30% drop in tourist arrivals from the Middle East, due to the ongoing conflict in the region. 

“The Middle East is a transit point for tourists arriving from European countries. We see a drop in tourist arrivals from such transit flights. But tourists are arriving via direct flights. However, there is a notable 25-30% drop in tourists from the Middle East at present,” he added. (Newswire)

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Opposition MP Harsha de Silva has raised alarm over what he termed a “tourism paradox” in Sri Lanka, where visitor arrivals are surging but revenue is falling.

Speaking on the issue, de Silva pointed out that foreigners are increasingly running unlicensed cafes, bars, surf camps, and tour operations while staying on tourist visas. 

“Money leaks abroad via overseas payments,” he warned, stressing that such practices undermine the local economy and deprive Sri Lanka of tax revenue.

He further highlighted the growing problem of overtourism, noting that budget travellers are overcrowding popular destinations, damaging natural wonders, and pricing locals out of their own communities. 

“Yala is overcrowded, Sigiriya is strained, and our beaches are polluted,” de Silva said, adding that unchecked tourism is eroding the country’s cultural and environmental assets.

While welcoming innovation and investment, the MP insisted that all operators must follow the same rules, obtain licenses, create local jobs, and pay taxes. 

He called for a shift toward sustainable tourism that prioritises quality over quantity and protects Sri Lanka’s attractions for future generations.

“The government must enforce a proper framework now,” de Silva urged, warning that failure to act would compromise both national revenue and the long-term viability of the tourism sector. (Newswire)

Tourism paradox: Arrivals surging, revenue falling . Foreigners run unlicensed cafes/bars/surf camps/tours on tourist visas—money leaks abroad via overseas payments.

Add overtourism: Budget travellers jam hotspots, ruin natural wonders (Yala overcrowded, Sigiriya strained,… pic.twitter.com/JQsGSpsDm7

— Harsha de Silva (@HarshadeSilvaMP) February 23, 2026

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Sri Lanka Tourism says its latest assessment shows that nearly one-third of tourism‑generated value in the accommodation, travel agents/tour operators, and wellness sectors does not remain in the domestic economy, due to external, internal, and invisible leakages.

Building on these findings, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), in collaboration with UN Tourism, convened the country’s first national, multi‑stakeholder validation workshop on economic leakages in the tourism sector on 28 January.

The workshop was based on the Rapid Assessment of economic leakages in key tourism segments. Officials emphasized that the figures should be seen not as a sign of weak impact, but as evidence of untapped potential. 

They highlight opportunities to strengthen domestic value retention, deepen local supply chains, and increase tourism’s contribution to incomes, employment, and fiscal revenues.

Moreover, the assessment covers only three segments of the tourism value chain. Other activities such as casinos, crafts and selected leisure services are likely to increase the overall volume of recoverable value, reinforcing the case for targeted, pragmatic action rather than concern about tourism’s role in the economy.

Tourism generated USD 3.17 billion in receipts in 2024, making it Sri Lanka’s third-largest source of foreign exchange. However, a significant share of this value does not remain in the domestic economy due to structural factors including offshore bookings (with OTA and international operator commissions being structural features of global tourism markets), high import dependence, fragmented local supply chains and high informality.

Key findings included:

• Informality across the three sectors accounts for an important share of economic leakages and related fiscal losses. However, precise quantification remains ongoing, given limited visibility on the full scale of unregistered operators, the extent of offshore-held revenues, and the fact that some market segments are more influenced by informal actors than others.
• Procurement-related leakages largely driven by imports of food, equipment, vehicles and utilities, consumables, furniture and textiles exceeded USD 800 million per year. These leakages are not solely supply-side issues: visitor behaviour also matters, as informed tourists are more likely to favour locally sourced products and services when origin and impacts are clearly communicated
• Leakage rates above 50% were observed primarily in the spa and wellness segment, driven largely by reliance on foreign therapists and imported packaging for retail products.
• By contrast, Ayurveda demonstrated a significantly stronger local economic impact, with deeper local supply chains, greater value retention, and more socially responsible practices, including gender-appropriate service provision.

From diagnosis to action

The workshop was designed as a pragmatic validation exercise focused on turning evidence into action and identifying realistic opportunities for progress:

• What could be implemented within existing institutional mandates
• What could be achieved in the short and medium term
• What actions required sequencing or broader coordination beyond sector-level authority

The objective was clear: not to debate whether leakages exist, but to collectively identify what can be done and how Sri Lanka can actively capture greater value from its tourism economy.

Three thematic panels addressed:

• Formalisation, digitalisation and incentives
• Strengthening local value chains and sourcing
• Sustainability, skills and destination positioning

With the support of industry associations, the outcomes of the workshop will feed directly into the preparation of a three-year implementation roadmap led by SLTDA. The roadmap will prioritise practical and achievable measures, including clearer and progressive formalisation pathways, realistic opportunities for import substitution, and strengthened consumer awareness through better use of digital tools.

A key focus will be on improving market credibility and access, where continued access to platforms, promotion and partnerships will increasingly depend on compliance with SLTDA registration and quality requirements, ahead of any enforcement or sanctioning measures. Improved inter-institutional coordination will support this transition.

A strategic shift for Sri Lanka’s tourism sector

As arrivals continue to recover, Sri Lanka’s challenge is no longer only to grow visitor numbers, but to ensure that more tourism value stays in the country and benefits Sri Lankans. This workshop marked a first concrete step toward that goal. (Newswire)

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Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath says Sri Lanka has earned nearly USD 11 billion in revenue from foreign employment and tourism in 2025.

Addressing a media briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today (05), the Minister said more than USD 7 billion had been generated through foreign remittances, while the tourism sector contributed USD 3.2 billion.

He noted that despite the impact of Cyclone Ditwah, Sri Lanka has continued to record strong inflows from overseas. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka has been named among the world’s 10 destinations where travellers feel happiest, according to a new list published by USA Today, highlighting the island’s growing appeal for purpose-driven and experience-focused travel.

The ranking is based on G Adventures’ Happiness List 2026, which surveyed more than 8,000 adults across the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Canada, Australia and New Zealand who intend to travel in 2026. The study found that 89 per cent of respondents believe purpose-driven travel contributes to their long-term happiness.

Sri Lanka was recognised for a seven-day sailing experience along the country’s south coast, where travellers explore remote beaches, fishing villages and coastal communities while travelling aboard a catamaran. The experience was cited as offering a balance of relaxation, cultural connection and immersion in nature.

According to the report, travellers increasingly seek journeys that allow them to slow down, connect with local communities and experience a sense of wonder, factors that strongly influence happiness during travel.

Sri Lanka appeared on the list alongside destinations such as Panama’s San Blas Islands, Guatemala, Zimbabwe, Iceland, Ecuador, Central Asia’s Silk Road region and Moldova, reinforcing the island’s position as a unique and meaningful travel destination on the global stage.

Tourism authorities have consistently promoted Sri Lanka as a destination offering authentic cultural experiences, biodiversity and coastal beauty, with international recognition such as this expected to further boost interest among long-haul and experiential travellers. (Newswire)

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The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai hosted a high-level breakfast meeting recently (12), bringing together leading travel trade professionals, media partners, airline representatives, and key influencers to promote Sri Lanka as a premier travel destination under the revitalized “Sri Lanka is Ready” tourism campaign.

According to the Sri Lankan Consulate General, the networking event, held at the premises of the Sri Lankan Consulate General’s office, was organized to strengthen partnerships within the UAE travel and tourism sector and showcase Sri Lanka’s readiness to welcome visitors with renewed confidence, enhanced hospitality, and diverse tourism offerings.

Consul General of Sri Lanka to Dubai and Northern Emirates, Alexi Gunasekera, highlighted the remarkable progress made by Sri Lanka’s tourism industry and the country’s growing appeal among travellers from the Middle East.

He noted that Sri Lanka continues to elevate its tourism infrastructure, service standards, and destination experiences, ranging from beaches and wellness retreats to heritage sites, adventure activities, and vibrant cultural attractions.

“Sri Lanka is fully prepared and eager to welcome travellers from the UAE and around the world,” the Consul General affirmed. “With strengthened safety measures, improved accessibility, and an exceptional variety of experiences, we are ready to offer visitors an unforgettable holiday.”

The meeting also provided an opportunity for Destination Management Companies, travel agents, airlines, media and influencers to share their experiences and suggestions in promoting Sri Lanka as a preferred destination among travellers and to outline new marketing initiatives, destination updates, and upcoming collaborations with UAE travel partners. Participants engaged in productive discussions on enhancing connectivity, developing tailored travel packages, and expanding promotional campaigns to further boost visitor arrivals.

Attendees expressed strong confidence in the country’s tourism potential and reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with Sri Lankan authorities to promote the destination among UAE-based travellers, families, and holidaymakers.

The Consulate General emphasized that events of this nature strengthen bilateral ties and play a vital role in revitalizing Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, one of the nation’s most dynamic and fast-growing industries. (Newswire)

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An Indian man’s candid social media post comparing everyday life in Sri Lanka with India has sparked a wide online debate around infrastructure, cleanliness and civic sense.

‘So much better right in our neighbourhood’

Taking to X, the user, identified as Ish, said he felt numb after landing back in Delhi following a trip to Sri Lanka. In his post, he reflected on what he described as a stark contrast between the two countries.

“Our lives in India really amount to nothing. You don’t need to compare India with Europe. There’s a country with so much better air, roads, infrastructure, cleanliness and civic sense right in our neighbourhood,” he wrote.

The post quickly gained traction, crossing 127,000 views and prompting a flurry of reactions from users who shared their own travel experiences and perspectives.

Users echo the contrast

Several users agreed with Ish, pointing to visible differences they noticed the moment they arrived in Sri Lanka. One user commented, “The moment you land in Sri Lanka, you realise the stark difference. Well built roads, cleanliness and air. Though the people look familiar, the land feels foreign.”

Another user recalled walking long distances in Sri Lankan cities without discomfort. “I was also in awe of Colombo and Hambantota’s clean air, roads and footpaths. The best part was that we walked almost 10 to 12 kilometres to explore the cities. I can’t imagine doing that here without your mind getting busted,” the user wrote.

Others extended the comparison further. One comment read, “Even Nepal is far better and cleaner than many parts of India.”

Not everyone agreed with the comparison. Some users argued that population size plays a crucial role in shaping infrastructure and civic management. One response said, “It has a population of 2 crores. Stop making these silly comparisons.” (Hindustan Times/ AI- Image)

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