On April 18, 2024, the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) orchestrated its first-ever roadshow in Turkey, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Mission in Turkey and the National Carrier, which presently operates five flights per week from Istanbul, with plans to escalate to daily flights starting October 2024. This strategic initiative aimed to cultivate awareness and underscore the significance of the Turkish market within the international travel sphere.
The roadshow, held at the Intercontinental Hotel Turkey in Istanbul, left a lasting impression on the Turkish travel trade and media community. Through captivating cultural dance performances and immersive videos, Sri Lanka showcased its diverse array of holiday opportunities, enticing Turkish travelers to explore a distinct destination experience.
Nineteen Sri Lankan travel industry representatives, including prominent entities such as Aitken Spence Travels (Pvt) Ltd, Walkers Tours (Pvt) Ltd, and Jetwing Travels (Pvt) Ltd, participated in the event, exhibiting the richness of Sri Lanka’s tourism offerings.
Mr. Dushan Wickramasuriya delivered the welcome speech, while H.E Hasanthi Urugodawatte Dissanayake, Sri Lankan Ambassador to Turkey, conducted the country presentation. Mr. Chalaka Gajabahu, Chairman of SLTPB, provided insights into new strategies aimed at bolstering tourist influx, and Ms. Sasika Jayaweera expressed gratitude in her vote of thanks. Mr. Aydin Osu, designated Honorary Consul General of Sri Lanka in Istanbul, also graced the occasion with his presence.
Turkish Airline played a pivotal role in supporting the success of the event, extending assistance and sponsorships. Mr. Cumhur Boyaraz, the station Manager of Turkish Airline, elaborated on the airline’s commitment to enhancing tourist numbers to Sri Lanka.
The event facilitated productive networking sessions between local travel industry partners, Turkish travel agents, and media personnel, fostering dialogue and collaboration. Concurrently, SLTPB conducted a media briefing, reinforcing the message of Sri Lanka’s safety, security, and readiness to offer unparalleled travel experiences.
The roadshow also welcomed the presence of TURSAB, the travel association of Turkey, and Jazeera Airlines, a Kuwaiti carrier with daily flights to Sri Lanka from Turkey, along with major tour operators demonstrating their support for Sri Lanka’s tourism endeavors.
With its vast potential as a source market, Turkey stands out as a promising avenue for Sri Lanka’s tourism promotion efforts, poised to attract tourists with its unique attractions and cultural charm.
