When Tourism Will Start in Sri Lanka?

By Anna Duncan

Sri Lanka, a tropical paradise in South Asia, has been a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. The country is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, rich history, and vibrant culture.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism industry in Sri Lanka came to a standstill. But when will tourism start again in Sri Lanka?

As of now, Sri Lanka has not yet opened its borders for foreign tourists. The government is taking all necessary measures to control the spread of the virus in the country and ensure the safety of its citizens as well as visitors.

Current Situation:
Currently, Sri Lanka has implemented a travel ban on all foreign nationals entering the country until further notice. Only Sri Lankan citizens and dual citizens (with an overseas passport) are allowed to enter the country but they must undergo a 14-day quarantine period upon arrival.

Plan for Tourism:
The government of Sri Lanka has formulated a comprehensive plan to restart tourism in the country while ensuring safety measures are in place. The plan focuses on three main aspects: safety protocols for visitors, support for businesses and employees affected by COVID-19, and marketing strategies to attract tourists.

Safety Protocols for Visitors:

The government will be implementing strict safety protocols for visitors entering Sri Lanka once borders reopen. This includes mandatory COVID-19 testing before arrival and upon arrival at airports or seaports.

Additionally, visitors will be required to stay at certified accommodations that have been approved by health authorities. These accommodations will have strict health and safety guidelines in place including regular cleaning and disinfection procedures.

Support for Businesses and Employees:

Sri Lanka’s economy heavily relies on tourism with millions employed in this sector. The government has taken steps to provide support to businesses affected by COVID-19 including tax relief measures and low-interest loans.

Furthermore, employees in the tourism industry who have lost their jobs due to the pandemic will be given financial assistance through a special relief program.

Marketing Strategies:

The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau has devised a marketing strategy to promote the country as a safe and attractive destination for tourists. The bureau will be focusing on digital marketing campaigns, social media promotions, and collaborations with travel agents and tour operators.

  • The bureau plans to showcase Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and cultural heritage through virtual tours and experiential marketing campaigns.
  • The bureau will also be launching special promotions and discounts for visitors to encourage tourism.

Conclusion:

While there is no exact date for when tourism will start in Sri Lanka, the government has taken significant steps to prepare for its reopening. The safety protocols in place are designed to ensure the well-being of visitors while supporting local businesses and employees.

As we all wait patiently for borders to reopen, we can continue exploring Sri Lanka’s beauty virtually and plan our future travels with excitement and anticipation.