Sri Lanka Tourism continues to expand its warm bilateral and cultural ties with its Indian counterparts by venturing into a series of Road Shows in key Indian cities from 24th – 28th April 2023. The first roadshow will be held in Chennai on April 24, followed by Cochin on April 26 and finally in Bengaluru on April 28.
Sri Lanka is witnessing a considerable increase in tourist arrivals with India leading the way and securing the number one position. The event also focuses on promoting a myriad of tourism experiences while focusing on converting potential travellers to make bookings and highlight the positive message that Sri Lanka is open for Leisure, Business and MICE tourism.
The target audience at these roadshows will be tour operators, media, key influencers, corporates, trade associations and key tourism industry stakeholders in India, who have the ability to take the message that Sri Lanka is not only one of the most beautiful countries with an amazing range of destinations and products, but is also safe and secure.
A delegation of over 30 Sri Lankan travel agencies and hotels will be participating at this event, with the delegation being led by the Hon. Harin Fernando, Minister of Tourism accompanied by Chalaka Gajabahu, Chairman Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and Thisum Jayasuriya, Chairman Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, Shirani Herth, Junior Manager, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) and Malkanthi Welikla, Manager – Marketing, Sri Lanka Convention Bureau.
Many industry stakeholders have supported this endeavour including Sri Lankan Airlines and Indigo. Each roadshow will include B2B Sessions facilitating numerous discussions followed by an Evening Networking event which will also help to improve business partnerships.
A touch of glamour will be added to these events with the participation of celebrities such as Cricket legend Sanath Jayasuriya. A dancing troupe specially flown in for this event will showcase Sri Lankan rich heritage of performing arts.
During the Roadshows, Hon. Minister of Tourism is expected to meet several high-profile Business Leaders, Tourism Stake Holders and Corporates while engaging in several media interviews with leading Indian media houses.
India has generated over 80,000 tourist arrivals to the country so far and it is expected to double these numbers by 2023. Thus, these roadshows will add more value to create a positive mindset regarding Sri Lanka and its diversity of attractions, cultural value and travel opportunities, enabling Indian tourist arrivals to the destination.
Source : Travel Trade Journal