12/06/2007 - e Turbo News (www.travelindustryreview.com/news/5585)
Tell the truth, Sri Lankan tourism minister says
(by eTN Staff Writer)
 
 


Sri Lanka makes its case for improving its image in the media.

The tourism minister from Sri Lanka has spoken about the image of the Indian Ocean nation and in doing so emphasized the need for the truth in media and other reporting. He is saying gaining the trust and confidence of the international traveler is important to make Sri Lanka a destination of choice by the tourist.


“Safety of travelers is a priority on the Sri Lanka Tourism’s agenda,” said Minister Milinda Moragoda advising all tourism stakeholders including the media to be honest and credible in how they portray Sri Lanka.


“We are delighted to reassure hoteliers and others in the hotel industry that the UK does not advise against travel to Sri Lanka” said a spokesperson from the British high Commission in Colombo. It only advises against travel to the North and East of the country where guerrilla fighting continues.


Even with the country’s current hurdles, the hotel industry is pressing on and remains undeterred by low occupancy, at least for now. Amid the current turn of events, Sri Lankan hotels are pioneers in adopting eco friendly tourism in the region. Kandalama Hotel situated in proximity to Sigiriya and Dambulla Rock Temple was awarded the Leeds Green Building Certification a world first for eco tourism.


“Many large companies in Sri Lanka today are striking a balance between the planet, the people and profits” said Prema Cooray speaking of the Sri Lankan hotel industry at the World Conservation Union (IUCN) conference in Colombo.


Sri Lanka’s new approach-prevent, protect, delight Sri Lankan tourism officials have launched a new program called Prevent, Protect and Delight. To help kick-off this new program, domestic and foreign tourists gathered on June 1 at the Sri Lanka Tourism’s Headquarters. Also at the event, the Inspector General of Police re- commissioned the Sri Lanka Tourist Police Division, which is aiming to train personnel to protect tourists from being hassled and in turn prevent conflict between traveler and locals making room for the enjoyment of a pleasant and delightful stay in Sri Lanka.


Separately, Sri Lanka Tourism announced it is to give women’s role in tourism a stronger focus. With the theme, “Men don’t get it,” Sri Lanka, as host country for commemorating World Tourism Day on September 27, is aiming to attract more women visitors with special packages tailored to their needs.


“We hope to bring in women leaders and develop business opportunities around the UNWTO’s [United Nations World Tourism Organization] World Tourism Day event," Sri Lanka Tourism chairman Renton De Alwis. "We aim to offer holiday packages under the theme 'Men don't get it' and have other exciting programs involving the provincial tourism outfits as well."
 
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