Sri Lanka to revive cruise links with India
by Sayoni Bhaduri – Mumbai
Sri Lanka has remained a close cultural and historical partner of India and to make the bond stronger the Sri Lankan Tourism is now looking at reviving cruising between the two countries. Dileep Mudadeniya, MD, Sri Lankan Tourism said, “We plan to revive our cruise links with India by the end of this year through the Mumbai and Colombo route. These had previously been discontinued.”
Sri Lanka Tourism also promoting the nation as a MICE destination. Predominantly being a holiday destination, a ripple effect is expected to be seen on the MICE segment as well. The biggest investment for Sri Lankan Tourism has been the IIFA project informed Mudadeniya. “By associating Sri Lanka as a destination with celebrities we hope to break the image that the country is not ready for high end vacations and holidays,” he added. There has also been the creation of a 20 acre film city for the development of MICE and film tourism. There are also plans to promote film tourism by providing incentives, the details of which are yet to be finalised, informed Mudadeniya.
Sri Lanka has already identified 57 locations which it is promoting as part of the Ramayana trail, and has already completed its promotion in India through road shows.
(Source: Express Travel World – 10th June 2010)