The actual number of tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka is around 250,000 to 300,000 since the official figure (over 400,000) of tourist arrivals is not accurate as it includes those arriving for business and other purposes, according to a veteran and father-figure in the industry.
Prof M.T.A.Furkhan, Chairman, Confifi Group, told reporters this week that if another 100,000 tourists arrivals are ensured, the investment by the industry could reach a break-even point. He was speaking at an event by his company to announce holiday packages for Sri Lankan families in their three resorts – Eden Resort and Spa, Riverina and Club Palm in Beruwela during the Sinhala and Hindu New Year holidays. The packages includes a ‘one of a kind’ offer different from other holiday packages, with many extras.
He said that the present major financial meltdown affects Sri Lanka’s traditional markets (Europe) and therefore the authorities should work towards other markets such as India, Middle East, and China which are less affected by the recession.
He said the worst thing that happens to Sri Lankan tourism these days is the negative publicity in the world media about the country’s security situation. He said that now there is unprecedented negative publicity, more than ever before. Confifi Group Director Operations, Ajit Jayamanne and Group General Manager, Marketing Ms Anushka Lovell also spoke. |
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