The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, in collaboration with the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Bangkok organized and coordinated the participation of Sri Lanka at the 22nd Thai International Travel Fair (TITF), held from 7 to 11 February 2018 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand.
The Sri Lankan pavilion was declared open by Ambassador Kshenuka Senewiratne, together with Mr. Suparerk Soorangura, President, Thai Travel Agents Association and Ms. Chami Gasnawage, Assistant Director of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau. In addition, the traditional oil lamp was also lit by dignitaries attending the TITF to the throb of magul bera. The dignitaries for the opening ceremony were conducted to the Sri Lankan pavilion by dancers flown for the event from Sri Lanka.
The main objective of Sri Lanka’s participation was to create awareness and portray the beauty of the paradise Island amongst potential Thai travellers. Tourist arrivals from Thailand to Sri Lanka in 2017 has recorded an approximately 15% growth, with over 10,000 Thai visitors. Sri Lanka is a growth destination for Thai tourists, particularly for religious tourism.
Sri Lanka was represented by leading tour companies, namely Karunakarala Ayurveda Spa & Resort, Lanka Sporteizen, Jetwing Travels, Savari Travels (Pvt) Ltd, Karusan Travels ( Pvt) Ltd and Hamoos Travels ( Pvt) Ltd.
The Sri Lankan booth attracted many visitors where Ceylon Tea was also served. Chandana Wickramasinghe’s eight member dance troupe performed at the main stage as well as at the Sri Lankan pavilion, which was an added attraction to the many visitors.
This is the third time in the recent years that Sri Lanka has participated in the TITF. The TITF, which is held twice a year, is the largest tourism promotion exhibition in Thailand. It is organized by the Thai Travel Agents Association, attracting sellers from international & domestic airlines, travel agencies, foreign countries tourism promotion organizations, travel magazines & writers, outbound travel companies, hotels/resorts and cruises/car rentals housed in 1200 booths. It is estimated that this fair had 400,000 visitors.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Bangkok
15.02.2018
