The recently concluded World Travel Market (WTM) in the UK saw Sri Lanka’s largest-ever contingent, with over 100 booths representing a wide range of offerings in Sri Lankan tourism. For more than four decades, Sri Lanka has maintained a strong presence at this prestigious event, even through challenging times. Held over three days, WTM serves as a vibrant platform for interactions among all tourism stakeholders.

The Sri Lankan pavilion, featuring lively Kandyan dancers, a continuous flow of Sri Lankan tea, and a showcase of the country’s unique properties and tour experiences, stood out as a key attraction. It was no surprise when Sri Lanka's stand won the award for the “Best Stand to Do Business With.”
Buddhika Hewawasam, the newly appointed Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, spoke exclusively to Daily Mirror Life, emphasizing that the new government is prioritizing tourism, recognizing the country’s immense potential. He addressed security concerns, assuring agents and stakeholders that Sri Lanka is a safe travel destination, highlighting that it is now "safer than it has ever been."

Mahen Kariyawasam, Managing Director of Andrews Travel Company, noted the increased interest this year, especially from the UK and Eastern Europe, which he described as promising for the future.

Ajith Wijesekera, Chairman and Managing Director of Union Resorts and Spas, commented on the significant growth in Sri Lanka's presence, with nearly 35 additional stalls this year. He observed that this year’s WTM was especially productive, with more appointments and tangible business opportunities emerging. Despite minor concerns regarding security, he reassured potential visitors of Sri Lanka’s safety, though he hopes the stand can secure a more central location next year to increase footfall.

Sam Clark, Head of Experience Travel Group, noted the expanded Sri Lankan pavilion, remarking on the upbeat energy and the impressive effort to promote the country's tourism potential.

Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the UK, Rohitha Bogollagama, who inaugurated the Sri Lankan pavilion alongside other dignitaries, emphasized the importance of WTM for the country’s tourism. He highlighted that this year saw the largest number of Sri Lankan booths, attributing this to the nation’s consistent policies promoting itself as a stable and safe travel destination.

Thushni de Silva, a consultant for the Pekoe Trail, which received substantial interest at WTM, shared that international operators are particularly attracted to this low-impact tourism initiative. She highlighted how the trail encourages a closer connection to nature and benefits local communities, with many villagers, including women, finding employment as guides. “The trail is like a river nourishing the hills around it,” she said, underlining the trail’s sustainable impact on local communities.

Shyami Dassenaike, Director of Starring Tours, also reported a productive event with a high volume of appointments and noted increased interest in Sri Lanka’s offerings, foretelling a positive outlook for the industry.

Druvi Gunasekera, founder of Boutiques in Sri Lanka and publisher of the Luxury Accommodation Guide, launched the ninth edition of the guide at WTM. Known as a leader in luxury boutique tourism, she expressed excitement about the new interest from high-yield clients in Sri Lanka’s luxury properties, which she believes can rival some of the best worldwide.

Althea Bunce, Founder of Sri Lanka Bespoke a company specialising in curated insider experiences that allow high-end travellers to experience the island in a more intimate and personal way through rare experiences not offered anywhere else said the WTM was an ideal opportunity for her to discover new, luxury properties that have come up in Sri Lanka. She added that there was an increase in the number of luxury properties in Sri Lanka which meant there was a demand which means that more travellers are viewing Sri Lanka as a luxury destination.

Pics by Tina Edward Gunawardhana