Sri Lanka

Air

SriLankan Airlines to launch new daytime Bangalore-Colombo route

Marga Manlapig Oct 25, 2024

SriLankan Airlines is launching a new daytime flight between Bangalore and Colombo starting 31 October 2024, bringing the total weekly operations between the two cities to 10 flights. 

Hospitality

Three of Sri Lanka’s Taru Villas join the Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Marga Manlapig Oct 18, 2024

Taru Villas announced that two of its properties, Taru Villas Maia - Habarana and Taru Villas The Long House - Bentota, as well as its newest addition Taru Villas Villu - Wilpattu, joined…

Hotel Management Company

Red Dot Representations inks partnership with Sri Lanka’s Hayleys Travels

Marga Manlapig Oct 17, 2024

Red Dot Representations officially partnered with Hayleys Travels, Sri Lanka’s leading destination management company.

Training

DTH Travel releases 12 new Asia training guides for agents

Marga Manlapig Oct 11, 2024

DTH Travel launched its first-ever suite of destination selling guides for travel agents. 

Air

SriLankan Airlines introduces Serendib Delights meal preordering service

Marga Manlapig Sep 18, 2024

SriLankan Airlines launched Serendib Delights, a new meal pre-ordering service for its Economy Class passengers.

Hotels

Jetwing Hotels launches Jetwing Jungle Lodge, Yala

Kanchan Nath Sep 16, 2024

In the heart of Sri Lanka's wild coastal frontier, Jetwing Jungle Lodge, launches, emerging as a beacon of sustainable luxury.

Air

flydubai inks interline agreement with SriLankan Airlines

Marga Manlapig Sep 11, 2024

flydubai and SriLankan Airlines announced that they have entered an interline agreement that will introduce greater travel opportunities.

Air

SriLankan Airlines celebrates 45th anniversary

Marga Manlapig Sep 2, 2024

SriLankan Airlines celebrates its 45th anniversary this month, commemorating a journey that began on 1st September 1979.

Air

SriLankan Airlines treats young monks to a special airport tour

Marga Manlapig Aug 28, 2024

SriLankan Airlines brought smiles to the faces of young Buddhist monks or Samaneras with a special guided tour of the Bandaranaike International Airport.

Visa updates

It is now easier for Indians to visit Sri Lanka

Kanchan Nath Aug 26, 2024

Sri Lanka's cabinet approved visa-free access to visitors from 35 countries, including India. This initiative is part of the Sri Lankan government’s efforts to boost tourism and revive its…

Airlines and Aviation

IndiGo enhances connectivity to Singapore, Kuwait, and Colombo

Kanchan Nath Aug 14, 2024

IndiGo has announced a new route and additional frequencies to enhance international connectivity from prominent commercial and tourist hubs across states in South and Central India,…

Visa updates

VFS Global appointed to deliver Algeria visa services from India, Nepal and Sri Lanka

Kanchan Nath Aug 14, 2024

VFS Global has been appointed to manage submission and collection for Algeria visa applications in India, Nepal and Sri Lanka.

Airlines and Aviation

IndiGo to offer direct flights between Chennai and Jaffna from 1 September

Kanchan Nath Aug 2, 2024

IndiGo, India's preferred airline has announced Jaffna, Sri Lanka as the newest addition in its international route network.

Awards

Jetwing Hotels honoured once again with a Presidential Environment Award

Kanchan Nath Jul 23, 2024

Jetwing Kandy Gallery shines at the Presidential Environment Awards 2024, securing the sole gold award in the hospitality category

Visa updates

Indians can now travel to Sri Lanka without a visa on a 30-day visit

Kanchan Nath Jul 15, 2024

To promote tourist arrivals, Sri Lanka renewed visa-free entry for visitors from India and several other select countries.

Global

SriLankan Airlines adds eco-friendly amenities to business class

Marga Manlapig Jul 11, 2024

The airline now uses fabrics made from recycled PET plastics for its business class headrest covers and pillowcases

Awards

Hilton hailed as 3rd best workplace in Sri Lanka

Marga Manlapig Jul 8, 2024

Hilton garnered the #3 spot in Sri Lanka’s Best Workplaces™ list for 2024 in the large-sized business category.

Hotels

Key holders to the most beautiful houses in Sri Lanka, Eden Villas, introduces properties bookable by the room

Kanchan Nath Jun 28, 2024

Eden Villas, the leading luxury villa expert in Sri Lanka, has for the first time introduced properties bookable by the room.

Hotels

Minor Hotels introduces NH Collection and NH Brands in Sri Lanka

Kanchan Nath Jun 7, 2024

Global hotel owner and operator Minor Hotels has added two properties in Sri Lanka, marking the introduction of its upper-upscale NH Collection Hotels & Resorts and upscale NH Hotels…

Airlines and Aviation

SriLankan Airlines unveils new office in Trivandrum

Kanchan Nath May 17, 2024

SriLankan Airlines, the national carrier of Sri Lanka, unveiled its new office in Trivandrum marking the beginning of a new partnership with Translanka Air Travels Pvt. Ltd. as the appointed…

Airlines and Aviation

SriLankan Airlines powers BikingMan Ultracycling World Championship

Kanchan Nath May 10, 2024

SriLankan Airlines powered the seventh season finale of the BikingMan Ultracycling World Championship, which recently culminated in an exhilarating race through Sri Lanka's scenic landscapes…

Airlines and Aviation

SriLankan Airlines codeshares with Air Seychelles

Kanchan Nath Apr 30, 2024

SriLankan Airlines, the national carrier of Sri Lanka and Air Seychelles, the national airline of the Republic of Seychelles, have embarked on a codeshare partnership, ushering in seamless…

Tourism

Sri Lanka’s luxury DMC Serendipity targets Super Niche Segment in Indian Tourism Market

Kanchan Nath Apr 26, 2024

Serendipity, Sri Lanka’s luxury Destination Management Company (DMC) specializing in hosting best-in-class tailored experiences throughout the island destination, has announced its strategic…

Airlines and Aviation

SriLankan Airlines codeshares with Korean Air

Kanchan Nath Mar 15, 2024

SriLankan Airlines and Korean Air have activated a new code-share partnership effective, presenting connections for customers of both airlines travelling between Colombo and Seoul.

Airlines and Aviation

IndiGo announces new direct flights between Mumbai and Colombo

Kanchan Nath Mar 13, 2024

IndiGo, India's preferred airline, has announced new direct flights between Mumbai and Colombo starting April 12, 2024.

Airlines and Aviation

Global launch of SriLankan Airlines’ NDC Agents Portal SriLankan Direct Connect begins in India

Kanchan Nath Jan 12, 2024

SriLankan Airlines has begun the global roll out of its New Distribution Capability (NDC) agents booking portal SriLankan Direct Connect starting with India enabling travel agents,…

Hotels

Sheraton Colombo Hotel opens with 320 keys in Sri Lanka

Kanchan Nath Jan 4, 2024

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, announced the opening of its latest property the Sheraton Colombo Hotel, which is the…

Airlines and Aviation

SriLankan Airlines welcomes another aircraft to its fleet

Kanchan Nath Jan 1, 2024

SriLankan Airlines recently welcomed the arrival of a wide-bodied Airbus A330-200 aircraft wet-leased from Air Belgium, giving a further boost to its fleet.

Airlines and Aviation

SriLankan Airlines boosts fleet with addition of Airbus A320 4R – ABS 

Kanchan Nath Dec 27, 2023

SriLankan Airlines has added a newly leased Airbus A320 aircraft bearing the serial number 4R – ABS to the fleet bumping up its total aircraft count to 22.

Airlines and Aviation

SriLankan Airlines rolls out the Green Carpet onboard

Kanchan Nath Dec 26, 2023

In a pioneering move, SriLankan Airlines will become one of the first airlines in South Asia to introduce eco-friendly carpets onboard its aircraft after a successful trial.

Airlines and Aviation

SriLankan Airlines introduces double daily flights to Mumbai

Kanchan Nath Dec 12, 2023

SriLankan Airlines has introduced double daily flights between Colombo and Mumbai, multiplying the convenience for passengers travelling to and from India’s financial and entertainment…

Airlines and Aviation

SriLankan Airlines celebrates seven successful years in Madurai

Kanchan Nath Dec 4, 2023

SriLankan Airlines recently celebrated seven successful years of connecting the city of Madurai in Tamil Nadu with Colombo and beyond.

Global

Alipay+ partners LankaPay to enhance digital travel experience to and from Sri Lanka

Kanchan Nath Oct 25, 2023

Alipay+ recently signed an MoU with Sri Lanka’s National Payment Network – LankaPay towards enhancing inbound and outbound travel experience through cross-border digital payments

Airlines and Aviation

‘SriLankan Flavours’ gets “2024 IFSA Best Inflight Food or Beverage Innovation Award”

Kanchan Nath Oct 12, 2023

SriLankan Airlines’ innovative culinary tribute to Sri Lanka, ‘SriLankan Flavours,’ proved irresistible for the judges at the APEX (Airline Passenger Experience Association) and IFSA…

Airlines and Aviation

SriLankan Airlines partners with Virgin Australia

Kanchan Nath Oct 2, 2023

SriLankan Airlines has entered into a first-ever interline partnership with Virgin Australia that will strengthen the airline’s network in Australia

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates and SriLankan establish reciprocal interline partnership

Kanchan Nath Sep 21, 2023

Emirates and SriLankan Airlines have signed a reciprocal interline agreement to boost connectivity for passengers of both airlines.

Hotels

Authentically Sri Lankan, Jetwing Galle Heritage Home opens its  door to guests this season 

Kanchan Nath Sep 21, 2023

Jetwing Hotels and Villas introduces its latest addition to the eclectic portfolio, Jetwing Galle Heritage Home. The exclusive and private villa is a lovingly restored traditional Southern…

Air

SriLankan Airlines takes the beauty of Jaffna to the world

Kristin Mariano Sep 5, 2023

SriLankan Airlines, the National Carrier and a prestigious oneworld member, as a prime promotor of country’s tourism, launched its latest campaign ‘The Colours of Jaffna.’ Considering…

Hotels

Savour Sri Lanka flavours at Lotus Cafe

Kanchan Nath Feb 22, 2023

JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, in collaboration with Weligama Marriott Resort & Spa and Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort brings to you a special culinary food festival from 24th February …

Eturbo News

VIP Dinner at Centara GrandBeach Phuket for Travel Blog Exchange Asia 2022

Harry Johnson Nov 29, 2022 0

Centara Hotels & Resorts, in partnership with Travel Blog Exchange Asia 2022, hosted an exclusive dinner followed by an evening of music, culture and entertainment to welcome VIP guests…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates to operate double daily direct flights to Colombo from 1 Dec

Kanchan Nath Nov 24, 2022

Emirates has announced plans to add an additional daily direct flight between Dubai and Colombo, starting from 1 December 2022, to cater to the seasonal increase in the demand for travel.

Tourism

Top four reasons to visit Sri Lanka

Kanchan Nath Nov 19, 2022

Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon and officially the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, is an island country in South Asia. There are various reasons to visit this beautiful…

Sports Tourism

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotions Bureau launches inter-match packages for the FIFA World Cup 2022

Kanchan Nath Nov 18, 2022

On the 2nd November Sri Lanka Tourism Promotions Bureau officially unveiled its unique travel packages for the FIFA World Cup 2022 fan base in Negombo, close to Bandaranaike International…

Tourism

Sri Lanka is open: Here’s why now is the best time to visit

Kristin Mariano Nov 18, 2022

With the relaxation of government travel advisories and an end to the local protests seen earlier in 2022, Sri Lanka is once again a safe, open and welcoming environment for visitors.…

Tourism Boards

Mastercard launches ‘Sri Lanka with Love’

Kanchan Nath Oct 21, 2022

Mastercard, in order to encourage Indian tourists to explore Sri Lanka has launched a campaign called ‘Sri Lanka with Love.’

Tourism

Sri Lanka

Malcolm Ginsberg Aug 29, 2022

On Saturday (27 August) the UK Foreign Office lifted its advice against travel to Sri Lanka with a state of emergency in the country coming to an end. This does of course not mean a…

Features

Ongoing economic, geopolitical crises make Sri Lanka tourism industry revival uphill task, says GlobalData

Kristin Mariano Aug 22, 2022

The travel and tourism sector is an important income generator for Sri Lanka. However, the ongoing economic crisis coupled with Ukraine–Russia war and China’s zero-COVID policy has put…

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka To Promote Ramayana Trial in India

Kanchan Nath Aug 16, 2022

Sanath Jayasuriya, Sri Lanka’s tourism brand Ambassador has said his country will concentrate on promoting the Ramayana trail to Indian tourists.

Tourism

Sri Lanka eyes Indian travellers for quick tourism revival

Megha Paul Jul 8, 2022

Sri Lanka will hold roadshows starting next month in five Indian cities to attract travellers seeking “wellness, leisure, and Ramayana-trail,” tours, corporate functions and destination…

Tourism

India tops Sri Lankan tourist market

Megha Paul Jun 9, 2022

As many as 5,562 tourists from India visited Sri Lanka in May followed by 3,723 from the UK, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) said

Azamara Starts Summer With Mediterranean Cruises

Dmytro Makarov May 27, 2022

Azamara Starts Summer With Mediterranean Cruises - With Azamara Journey returning to sail today, the fleet’s four ships are all sailing the high seas Azamara, the upmarket cruise line and…

Air

New Sri Lanka government to sell national airline

Megha Paul May 20, 2022

The new administration plans to privatise Sri Lankan Airlines, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said as the carrier lost $124 million in the year ending March 2021

Eturbo News

Ukraine invasion destroys Russian outbound tourism

Harry Johnson May 7, 2022

eTurboNews | eTN According to the latest industry data, Russian outbound tourism, already severely handicapped by the global COVID-19 pandemic travel restrictions, has fallen even further,…

Tourism

TAAI postpones 66th convention scheduled in Colombo

Megha Paul Apr 8, 2022

The 66th Convention & Exhibition of TAAI, which was scheduled to be held from 19-22 April 2022, in Colombo Sri Lanka, has been postponed

Tourism

Sri Lanka to issue long-term visas for travellers interested in investing

Megha Paul Mar 10, 2022

Sri Lankan cabinet has accepted a plan to offer long-term visas to tourists who are interested in investing in the island nation

Quarantine Free Travel

Sri Lanka scraps off PCR test for travellers from March

Megha Paul Mar 1, 2022

Fully vaccinated travellers do not need to take a PCR or Rapid Antigen test, to determine the COVID status before traveling to Sri Lanka from March

Sri Lanka, one of the most wonderful destinations to discover: Find out how to undertake this trip

Chris Head Feb 17, 2022

Sri Lanka is one of Asia's most wonderful destinations and a must-see for any travel enthusiast. This nation truly has it all, from stunning scenery to thrilling wildlife safaris. This place…

Tourism

Sri Lanka logs in tourism boom with highest travellers from India

Megha Paul Jan 5, 2022

Sri Lanka received the highest number of foreign tourists in December 2021, with majority of the holidaymakers from India 

Tourism

‘Visit Sri Lanka Year’ in 2022 to revive tourism industry

Megha Paul Dec 23, 2021

Sri Lankan government is all set to declare 2022 as the "Visit Sri Lanka Year" in line with the integrated five-year Global Communication Campaign (GCC)

Vaccination Updates

Sri Lanka to make Covid vaccine card mandatory for entry in public places

Megha Paul Dec 13, 2021

Sri Lanka is mulling to make the Covid vaccine card mandatory for those entering public places, the President’s Office has announced

Sri Lanka to launch tourism promotion campaign in 5 countries

Megha Paul Oct 28, 2021

Sri Lankan Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said the government will launch a special tourism promotion programme in five countries to boost tourism

Sri Lanka gives COVID-19 booster shots for frontline and tourism staff

Megha Paul Oct 25, 2021

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa ordered frontline workers and tourism staff to be given a third booster shot of Covid-19 vaccine next month

Sri Lanka records more than 7K tourist arrivals in October

Megha Paul Oct 19, 2021

Over 7,000 tourists have arrived in Sri Lanka so far this month, giving a boost to the country’s tourism industry which took a blow due to the COVID-19 pandemic

Tourism

Sri Lanka to restart ETA service for vaccinated travellers

Megha Paul Oct 18, 2021

Sri Lankan government has announced that it has decided to restart the on-arrival Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) service at its airports for fully vaccinated international travellers

Tourism

Indians top foreign tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka

Megha Paul Oct 12, 2021

Sri Lanka has welcomed 13,547 foreign tourists in September 2021, of which 8,528 were Indians who topped the list of arrivals to the island nation

New bonanza! Sri Lankan Airlines offers ‘buy one get one free’ for Indian travellers

Megha Paul Sep 1, 2021

Sri Lankan Airlines has introduced a buy one get one free offer for Indian leisure travellers on their Colombo return tickets

Vaccination Updates

Sri Lanka opens for fully vaccinated Indian travellers

Megha Paul Aug 25, 2021

Fully vaccinated travellers from India will now be able to travel to Sri Lanka

Reopening updates

Sri Lanka postpones travel bubble with India

Megha Paul Apr 21, 2021

Sri Lanka has decided to postpone launching the proposed ‘travel bubble’ with India, in the wake of the recent surge in Covid-19 cases in India

Reopening updates

India announces travel bubble with Sri Lanka

Megha Paul Apr 12, 2021

India has established a bilateral air bubble arrangement with Sri Lanka for operation of special international passenger flights between the two countries, the Civil Aviation Ministry of…

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, an island with infinite possibilities

Chris Head Feb 16, 2021

Sri Lanka is a country with a rich history and beautiful landscapes. The island is becoming increasingly popular with tourists, and it’s easy to see why. While covid currently prevents us…

Reopening updates

Sri Lanka to welcome back tourists from 21 January

Megha Paul Jan 20, 2021

Sri Lanka will reopen its borders to foreign tourists on 21 January after a 10-month hiatus with travellers subject to tough Covid-19 protocols

Tourism

High hopes for Sri Lanka reopening on January 21

Kristin Mariano Jan 20, 2021

All systems go for Sri Lanka reopening for foreign travellers on January 21.

Reopening updates

Sri Lanka welcomes first batch of travellers after eight months

Megha Paul Dec 30, 2020

A group of Ukrainian tourists on 28 December became the first batch of holidayers to visit Sri Lanka in more than eight months after the island nation put curbs on international travel

Global

Sri Lanka defers airspace reopening

Megha Paul Dec 29, 2020

Sri Lanka has postponed the reopening of its airspace for commercial flights to prevent the spread of a new variant of the coronavirus

Sri Lanka waives off parking and landing costs for international flights from 26 December

Megha Paul Dec 23, 2020

Sri Lanka has decided to waive off parking and landing costs for international flights when the country opens up its skies later this month after being shut down for over eight months

Sri Lanka to resume international flights from 26 Dec

Megha Paul Dec 16, 2020

Sri Lanka will resume international flights operations from 26 December, eight months after they were closed in view of the COVID-19 outbreak

Sri Lanka and Grenada new entrants in WTTC Safe Travels stamp for safety protocols

Megha Paul Aug 10, 2020

Sri Lanka and Grenada are among the latest destinations to begin using the world’s first ever global safety and hygiene stamp

Geoffrey Bawa on spotlight: Country estate of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated architect relaunched

Megha Paul Jul 20, 2020

An important part of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, Lunuganga re-opens as a nine-bedroom property

Tourism Boards

Sri Lanka to reopen borders in August under rigid guidelines

Kristin Mariano Jun 9, 2020

Sri Lanka is in the midst of preparation of reopening its borders to international visitors starting August 1. Sri Lanka Tourism has prepared guidelines and precautionary measures to ensure…

Resplendent Ceylon unveils ‘SafeStay’ Initiative

Megha Paul May 19, 2020

Resplendent Ceylon, the pioneer in luxury experiential travel in Sri Lanka and the sole Sri Lankan members of Relais & Chateaux, has unveiled ‘SafeStay’ initiative. It includes a…

GoAir to start Colombo flights from Delhi and Bengaluru

Megha Paul Mar 5, 2020

In continuation of its expansion in South Asia, GoAir is set to start direct flights from Delhi to Colombo and Bengaluru to Colombo from 20 March. Jeh Wadia, managing director of…

VFS Global brings Lithuania visa services to Sri Lanka

Megha Paul Feb 13, 2020

Residents of Sri Lanka travelling to Lithuania can now apply for their visas at the VFS Global Visa Application Centre in the capital city of Colombo. Prior to this, customers had to…

Anantara Kalutara unveils mobile app showcasing Geoffrey Bawa’s architecture

Megha Paul Feb 4, 2020

Anantara Kalutara Resort has introduced its app showcasing the iconic architecture of the resort, which was partially designed by Sri Lanka’s most famous architect, Geoffrey Bawa. His…

What’s new and upcoming in Sri Lanka tourism for 2020

Megha Paul Jan 29, 2020

Product managers creating holidays in Sri Lanka believe 2020 will be a positive year due to better road infrastructure, the increasing popularity of ecotourism products, new and flexible…

STAAH and Negete strengthen presence in Sri Lanka

Megha Paul Jan 9, 2020

Building on the milestone achieved, of reaching 10,000 partner properties, STAAH, hospitality technology solutions provider, along with Negete, the authorised reseller of STAAH in Sri…

Sri Lankan experiential travel operator targets UK market

Megha Paul Jan 7, 2020

Tapping into the potential of the UK market, Sri Lankan experiential travel specialist, Eco Team has now appointed Jean-Marc Flambert as country envoy for UK. Talking about the new…

Sri Lanka extends free tourist visa facility for 48 countries

Megha Paul Jan 7, 2020

As Sri Lanka tries to revive the tourism sector, which was hit by the Easter Sunday bombings, the country has extended the free visa-on-arrival scheme till 30 April for the citizens of…

SriLankan Airlines gets new chairman

Megha Paul Dec 30, 2019

Ashok Pathirage has been appointed as chairman of the SriLankan Airlines Group by its principal shareholder, the government of Sri Lanka. Pathirage is a leading businessman and…

Cricket and wanderlust: Experience Travel unveils Sri Lanka tour holidays

Megha Paul Oct 30, 2019

Experience Travel Group has opened bookings for its Curious Travellers Cricket Tour to Sri Lanka. The tour will enable travellers to combine a stylish and tailor-made holiday to Sri…

Vistara to start Mumbai-Colombo service

Megha Paul Oct 29, 2019

Vistara, a full-service carrier and a joint venture of Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines, has announced a six-time-a-week (except Wednesdays) direct service to Colombo, Sri Lanka from…

Premier Holidays and Emirates launch campaign to promote Sri Lanka

Megha Paul Oct 18, 2019

Premier Holidays and Emirates have partnered to promote Sri Lanka in a joint autumn campaign. The operator has many offers on sale until 31 October to attract clients for their next…

Korean Air helps renovate damaged homes in Sri Lanka

Megha Paul Oct 14, 2019

Korean Air’s volunteer group performed volunteer work in Sri Lanka in October for the underprivileged local community in the suburbs of Colombo. The area was severely damaged by the…

Golfasian expands golf holidays to Sri Lanka

Megha Paul Sep 25, 2019

Golfers can now indulge in a golf holiday to Sri Lanka with Asia's largest golf tour operator, Golfasian. As part of an ongoing expansion and increasing requests from return customers,…

Global

Road to recovery: Cinnamon Hotels to host Future of Tourism Summit in Sri Lanka

Megha Paul Sep 4, 2019

Recognising the need to uplift Sri Lanka’s travel industry in the wake of 4/20 incident, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts is set to host the third edition of the ‘Future of Tourism Summit’…

Sri Lanka unveils new measures to boost India inbound

Megha Paul Aug 20, 2019

The Sri Lankan government has launched an ambitious tourism promotion programme in aiming to give a boost to the key revenue-generating sector of the island nation by attracting more…

Cinnamon launches ‘Bring A Friend Home’ campaign to speed up tourism recovery in Sri Lanka

Megha Paul Aug 19, 2019

Cinnamon’s Bring A Friend Home (BAFH) introduces an exclusive initiative to spearhead tourism in Sri Lanka and also to overcome challenges faced by the tourism industry. BAFH encourages…

Tourism

Sri Lanka to issue free visas for Chinese tourists

Megha Paul Jul 25, 2019

In a bid to attract one of the biggest source markets of outbound travellers in the world, Sri Lanka’s cabinet of ministers has approved a proposal from the Sri Lanka Tourism Ministry to…

Cruise

Sri Lanka keen on enhancing connectivity with Indian ports

Megha Paul Jul 18, 2019

Kavan Ratnayaka, chairman of Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), has revealed that the SLPA is keen on enhancing connectivity with Indian ports using ferry services to facilitate easier…

Air

Srilankan bullish on Colombo-Delhi route, unveils third freqeuncy

Megha Paul Jul 5, 2019

SriLankan Airlines has announced additional frequencies between Colombo and Delhi to take its total weekly offerings between the two capitals to 18 flights. Apart from the existing two…

Associations

Sri Lanka Tourism alliance upbeat about reviving travel

Megha Paul Jun 27, 2019

Sri Lanka’s much-loved hoteliers, including Resplendent Ceylon, Uga Escapes and Taj Hotels have united with like-minded travel industry professionals to create the Sri Lanka Tourism…

Airlines and Aviation

Sri Lanka launches packages for Indian tourists

Megha Paul Jun 26, 2019

Sri Lanka Tourism in collaboration with Sri Lankan Airlines, The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL) and inbound tour operators has introduced attractive packages, specifically…

Hospitality

Cinnamon to start edutainment camps in Sri Lanka

Megha Paul Jun 25, 2019

Summer Escapes by Cinnamon opens a window into an interactive and engaging environment for children to explore their talents, learn new skills and create wonderful memories while…

Tourism

Experience Travel Group backs Love Sri Lanka tourism campaign

Megha Paul Jun 18, 2019

London-based Experience Travel Group (ETG) has thrown its weight behind a campaign to boost Sri Lanka's tourism industry after being severely hit by the Easter Sunday bombings. The…

Hotels

Shangri-La Hotel in Colombo to reopen after deadly Easter attacks

Megha Paul Jun 12, 2019

Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo announced that it will partially reopen on 12 June, seven weeks after the property was attacked by a suicide bomber on Easter Sunday. The Shangri-La Hotel in…

Air

Air India to resume additional Delhi-Colombo flight

Megha Paul Jun 11, 2019

Air India will resume its additional flight on Delhi-Colombo route from 15 July, Hardeep Singh Puri, the civil aviation minister said. The national carrier had stopped operating the…

Tourism

Sri Lanka continues visa-on-arrival for India

Megha Paul Jun 11, 2019

Chamari Rodrigo, consul general of Sri Lanka in Mumbai, has said that the visa-on-arrival scheme for visitors of Indian nationality continues undisturbed. A written statement from the…

Global

Sri Lankan Tourism outlines “aggressive” stance against terrorism

Alastair Newport May 13, 2019

As Sri Lanka returns to normalcy after the tragic events on Easter Sunday that interrupted a decade of peace and prosperity in the island, Sri Lanka Tourism is illustrating what Sri Lankans…

Global

Sri Lanka mulls tax amnesty to boost tourism after blasts

Kristin Mariano May 6, 2019

The explosions that happened on Easter Sunday have a negative effect on Sri Lanka’s tourism industry and the country is considering a tax amnesty program in order to help companies recover…

Hotels

Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts plans Maldives and Sri Lanka expansion

Tian Tolentino May 3, 2019

Indian Ocean-based hospitality brand Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts has unveiled expansion plans for four more properties across the Maldives and Sri Lanka.

Tourism Boards

Sri Lanka emerges from the ashes in heartfelt appearance at ATM 2019

Kristin Mariano May 1, 2019

“Sri Lanka will not be beaten by terror. We will take this opportunity to demonstrate to the global media, tour operators, airlines and the world that Sri Lanka is committed to security.”

Hotels

Easter disaster: Series of blasts kill 207 in Sri Lanka

Kristin Mariano Apr 22, 2019

At least 207 people were killed and hundreds injured in a series of bomb explosions across Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday, one of the widely celebrated for Christians.

Hospitality

Why Nikki Beach’s hotel brand is “ready for take off”

Alastair Newport Apr 10, 2019

Purveyors of glam ocean front experiences Nikki Beach Hotels and Resorts Global, have announced its new pipeline for 2019 and beyond.

Partner content

Discover Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage Site with Amari Galle

Tian Tolentino Dec 17, 2018

Here are some of the best things to do at Amari Galle, to make sure your Sri Lankan itinerary is an unforgettable one.

Travel Agents

For your eyes only: #SoSriLanka goes for the millennials

MILI SEMLANI Semlani Nov 7, 2018

The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) is partnering with acclaimed wildlife producer, Nicola Brown, to create what they call "a film shot from the viewpoint of Sri Lanka’s rich and…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia Bangkok-Colombo flight aims to showcase beauty of Sri Lanka and Thailand

Kristin Mariano Oct 23, 2018

You can now book AirAsia Bangkok-Colombo flight four times a week. Flying from Bangkok (Don Mueang) to Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, a destination for faithful Buddhists as well as a…

MICE

Galle Face Hotel and the “smart, sophisticated and energetic” GM it deserves

Alastair Newport Oct 2, 2018

Last week it was announced the legendary Sri Lankan hotel, Galle Face Hotel, Colombo had taken on international hospitality veteran and luxury expert Robert C. Hauck as the new GM.

Sri Lanka

Galle gosh: Five-star Le Grand opens in Sri Lanka

Alastair Newport Sep 14, 2018

Sri Lankan hospitality firm Asia Leisure has announced the opening of its new hotel Le Grand, Galle, overlooking the Indian Ocean and nearby UNESCO world heritage site the Galle Fort.

Cruise

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines launch exotic adventures with free flights and transfers

Tian Tolentino Jul 27, 2018

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has launched tour packages with ‘Free Flights & Transfers’ on new bookings made by 8 August 2018.

Hospitality

IHG set to open InterContinental Colombo in Sri Lankan capital

Tian Tolentino Jul 18, 2018

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has signed a management deal with Pearl Grand Tower Hotel Limited to open InterContinental Colombo in Sri Lanka. 

Tourism

Curated ‘holiday packages’ for the England Cricket Tour in Sri Lanka

Tian Tolentino May 11, 2018

As the England Cricket Team prepares to tour Sri Lanka, Experience Travel Group gives the inside scoop on how to catch the key tour matches, where to stay, and why England will have their…

Hotels

Deutsche Hospitality lays foundation stones for schools in developing countries

Tian Tolentino Apr 20, 2018

German hotel company,Deutsche Hospitality has teamed up with the Fly & Help foundation to help build schools in Sri Lanka and Uganda.

Tourism

Indian tourism sector to surge towards $48 billion by 2020 and ten million jobs by 2028, reports WTTC

Alastair Newport Mar 22, 2018

It has been revealed today that India can expect to look forward to adding a further ten million jobs to the travel and tourism industry in the next ten years, if the right procedures are…

Hotels

Herman Wegmueller reveals scale of MG Group expansion plans

Alastair Newport Feb 22, 2018

Already Southeast Asia’s biggest bedbank, MG Group is not resting on its laurels and is intent on getting bigger and bigger. With it’s home territory wrapped up, MG has lofty ambitions and…

Hotels

Louis T Collection presents its new senior vice president

Alastair Newport Dec 22, 2017 2

Hospitality executive Mikael Svensson has joined hospitality management and building solutions company Louis T Collection as senior vice president. Svensson will oversee operations of the…

Hotels

Centara Hotels and Resorts 3 point plan for change

Alastair Newport Nov 28, 2017 0

Following Centara’s recent announcement that it had strengthened its management team by welcoming back seasoned industry professional Markland Blaiklock, in a newly formed role of Deputy…

Hotels

Onyx doubles down in Sri Lanka

Alastair Newport Nov 16, 2017 20

ONYX Hospitality, one of the region’s leading hotel management companies, will launch a brand-new Amari hotel in the Sri Lankan capital city of Colombo.

Sri Lanka

Amari Galle Sri Lanka

Alastair Newport Nov 13, 2017 16

Sri Lanka, an island nation strategically situated in the Indian Ocean, steeped in rich culture and history, natural beauty, and stunning coastlines offers a unique blend of hidden…

Airlines and Aviation

Sri Lankan airlines to launch social media competition at WTM

Jill Sayles Nov 3, 2017 13

SriLankan Airlines is offering a travel agent the chance to win a pair of Economy Class tickets from the UK to Sri Lanka at this year’s World Travel Market.  To enter the competition,…

Hotels

Sri Lanka’s only 18-hole golf resort signs Moshi Perera

Alastair Newport Nov 3, 2017 18

Shangri-La’s Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa, Sri Lanka has announced Moshi Perera has been appointed as the hotel’s new general manager.

Tourism

Does Sri Lanka have what the GCC want?

Alastair Newport Oct 18, 2017 15

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau is set to launch a promotional road show that will see a delegation of Sri Lanka Tourism officials, as well as Sri Lanka’s leading hotels and tourism…

Hotels

Colombo powers MICE strength with Shangri-La

Alastair Newport Oct 12, 2017 9

Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo is set to become the most extensive and versatile events venue in Sri Lanka when it opens its doors on 17th November 2017. The hotel will boast over 3,500sqm of…

Hotels

Marriott International stakes a claim in Sri-Lanka

Alastair Newport Oct 12, 2017 15

Marriott Hotels, has announced the opening of Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa, the group’s first hotel in Sri Lanka.

Hotels

Cantaloupe Hotels unveils Michelin star chef for Colombo restaurant

Alastair Newport Sep 28, 2017

Sri Lankan boutique hotel operator, Cantaloupe Hotels Group, is expanding into Colombo with its new rooftop restaurant concept Botanik, in the centre of the city’s financial district.

Airlines and Aviation

SriLankan Airlines achieves superior level of on-time performance

Michael Mackey Sep 12, 2017

SriLankan Airlines recorded a consistently superior on-time performance during the first six months of this year, the carrier said. Latest statistics by the global flight data tracker…

Sri Lanka

Whale of a Time Experiences

Michael Mackey Sep 7, 2017

Cantaloupe Hotel Group has launched a series of ‘Big Blue’ experiences at two of its boutique hotels in Galle, on Sri Lanka's south coast. The waters off the island's…

Airlines and Aviation

Qatar Airways adds more flights to South Asian capitals

Mark Elliott Aug 21, 2017

Qatar Airways continues to expand its South Asian operations with the launch of additional flights to two regional capitals: Colombo and Dhaka. Effective 1 September 2017, the…

Hotels

Where to Stay: the latest hotels in KL, Nagoya, Colombo and more

Mark Elliott Aug 18, 2017

Favehotel Tuban Location: On Basuki Rachmad Road in Tuban, the seaport in East Java, three hours' drive from Surabaya's Juanda International Airport Grade: Economy Keys: 105…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates from Thai Smile, Lao Airlines, Jetstar and more

Mark Elliott Jul 31, 2017

Thai Smile flies to Lucknow Where? Bangkok (Thailand) to Lucknow (India) When? Four times a week, effective immediately Who? Thai Smile Why? Thai Airways' regional subsidiary taps…

Airlines and Aviation

Qatar Airways adds capacity to Sri Lanka

Mark Elliott Jul 27, 2017

Qatar Airways will increase the number of seats it offers to and from Sri Lanka next month, with the introduction of a new flight and larger aircraft. On 1 August 2017, the Doha-based…

Hotels

Amari makes debut in Sri Lanka

Mark Elliott Jul 19, 2017

Onyx Hospitality Group has launched a brand new Amari hotel the historic city of Galle, marking the upscale brand's entry into Sri Lanka. The 172-room Amari Galle is a beachfront…

Airlines and Aviation

Sri Lanka to welcome first ever A380 flight

Mark Elliott Jul 19, 2017

Emirates will operate a one-off Airbus A380 flight to Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport next month, marking the first time the world's largest passenger aircraft has flown to…

Airlines and Aviation

Hong Kong gets new Sri Lankan link

Mark Elliott Jul 5, 2017

Hong Kong residents will soon be offered a new direct connection to Colombo, following the rearrangement of SriLankan Airlines' Asian operations. Effective 15 July 2017, the national…

Hotels

Hilton expands upscale pipeline in Sri Lanka

Mark Elliott Jun 7, 2017

Hilton has expanded its hotel pipeline in Sri Lanka to seven properties with the signing of another upscale hotel. The company has penned an agreement to manage the 140-room DoubleTree by…

Road

Hertz brings three car rental brands to Sri Lanka

Mark Elliott May 29, 2017

Visitors to Sri Lanka now have a series of international car rental brands to choose from, after Hertz made its debut in the country. The company has signed a multi-brand franchise…

Airlines and Aviation

SriLankan unveils first routes for new aircraft

Jill Sayles Apr 11, 2017

SriLankan Airlines will start taking delivery of its brand new fleet of Airbus A321neo aircraft this summer, and the national carrier has revealed the routes on which it is planning to…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: new flights from SilkAir, SpiceJet and more…

Mark Elliott Apr 10, 2017

Korean LCC connects to Vietnamese coast Where? Deagu (South Korea) to Danang (Vietnam) When? Five times a week, effective immediately Who? T’way Airlines Why? Low-cost carrier taps the…

Guest Column

Stepping into Sri Lanka’s south

Gemma Greenwood Apr 9, 2017

Sri Lanka’s south is on the cusp of change. “It’s like we hit a gold mine and are running into it,” said Skandha Ponniah, marketing manager for travel company Sri Lanka in Style…

Technology

Sabre helps drive online travel in Sri Lanka

Mark Elliott Apr 7, 2017

Sabre, the travel technology company, recently held a major event for the travel trade in Sri Lanka, with the aim of showcasing the company's solutions and advancing the country's online…

Hotels

Hilton hits six in Sri Lanka

Mark Elliott Apr 6, 2017

Hilton has made a significant move into Sri Lanka, with the signing of management agreements for six hotels and resorts across the country. The deals, which were penned with Melwa…

Guest Column

Stepping into Sri Lanka’s south

Gemma Greenwood Apr 4, 2017

Sri Lanka’s south is on the cusp of change. “It’s like we hit a gold mine and are running into it,” said Skandha Ponniah, marketing manager for travel company Sri Lanka in Style…

United States

Where to Stay: New hotels in Sri Lanka, the US and Czech Republic

Mark Elliott Feb 10, 2017

Jie Jie Beach by Jetwing Location: Overlooking the Indian Ocean in Panadura, on Sri Lanka's southwest coast, 1.5 hours' drive from Colombo Grade: Upscale Keys: 180 Facilities:…

United States

Where to Stay: New hotels in India, the US, Sri Lanka and more

Mark Elliott Feb 1, 2017

Jetwing Colombo Seven Location: Ward Place, in the centre of Sri Lanka's capital city Grade: Upscale Keys: 70 plus 28 serviced apartments Facilities: Rooftop restaurant, bar, pool…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: Gulf Air, Vietjet and more

Mark Elliott Jan 20, 2017

Gulf Air starts flying to Sri Lanka Where? Manama (Bahrain) to Colombo (Sri Lanka) When? Five times a week, effective immediately Who? Gulf Air Why? Taking advantage of double-digit…

Hotels

Carlson breaks new ground with first Sri Lankan hotel

Mark Elliott Jan 19, 2017

Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group has broken ground on its first ever property in Sri Lanka. The company held a ceremony recently to mark the start of construction work on the Park Inn by…

Hotels

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts marks its Sri Lanka debut

Gemma Greenwood Jan 18, 2017

 Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has opened a strikingly-modern property in Colombo, introducing a unique hospitality concept that brings attitude and altitude to the Sri Lankan capital.…

Hotels

Mövenpick makes Sri Lankan debut with landmark tower

Mark Elliott Jan 16, 2017

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has entered Sri Lanka with the launch of a new property in the country's capital, Colombo. The new Mövenpick Hotel Colombo becomes the city’s first new…

Hotels

Where to Stay: New hotels in Sri Lanka, China, India and Australia

Mark Elliott Jan 10, 2017

Jetwing Lake Location: 5km from town of Dambulla, central Sri Lanka Grade: Upscale Keys: 94 Facilities: 71-metre pool, spa, gym, two restaurants (including Chinese) Meeting space:…