“Whether they are backpackers or high-end travelers, what truly matters is the revenue Sri Lanka earns from each visitor. Backpackers generally spend less, yet a significant portion of their spending flows directly to grassroots Sri Lankans, small businesses, guesthouses, eateries and local service providers. High-end tourists, meanwhile, may have less direct impact on individuals, but their overall economic contribution to the country is considerably higher.
Ultimately, attracting more visitors is essential. To increase arrivals, Sri Lanka must provide compelling reasons for travelers to choose the destination, through unique experiences, quality attractions and improved facilities. By creating the right environment, the country can successfully grow both visitor numbers and total tourism revenue.”
Mr. Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), shared these insights during the Big Focus programme on Derana.
