Expanding its FAM Tour campaigns towards the Middle Eastern Region, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Embassy in Egypt organised a familiarisation tour for eight Egyptian Travel agents from 20 to 26 October 2022.
They were highly fascinated with their experience in Sri Lanka along with its scenic beauty, cultural splendour, and also experiencing the tantalising taste of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.
This tour was highly recommended by the Sri Lanka Embassy in Egypt, seeing the potential of attracting Middle Eastern travellers to the destination and its capacity as a possible source market.
The purpose of the tour was to create awareness about the rising potential in Sri Lanka Tourism which will increase the urge of Egypt travel agents in organising more tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka. The tour covered main tourist attractions such as Minneriya, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella and Beruwela. Complimentary service facilities for the tour were provided by the Mahaweli Reach Hotel Kandy, Anantara Hotel Kalutara and Aitken Spence Travels.
The scenic Nuwara Eliya and the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery was two of the main attractions which the visitors were fascinated with.
B2B sessions were held successfully after the tour with eight Egyptian tour operators on October 25, 2022 at the Movenpick Hotel and 50 members from the industry travel trade were given the opportunity to participate for these sessions.
Both local and Egyptian travel agents were able to share their ideas and inquire about possible connectivity between the two destinations. Though Egypt is not a main source market, it can be highlighted as one of the potential markets which will be able to draw a large number of tourists to Sri Lanka, given the relevant promotion.
In addition, a discussion was also organised with Egyptian tour operators with the presence of Minister of Tourism, Harin Fernando. Egyptian Ambassador for Sri Lanka was also invited for this discussion session.
Chairman of SLTPB and the Managing Director of SLTPB participated at this event with the officials of SLTPB.
Important details as of strategies of how to promote Sri Lanka Tourism in Egypt, and the holiday options which can be highlighted for the Egyptian travellers were also discussed.
Total tourist arrivals from Egypt was recorded as 1810 up to September 2022, which can be further increased by creating more awareness about the destination among the Egyptian travellers.
Sri Lanka offers a wide range of holiday opportunities for every traveller, and it can be assured that travelers will not be disappointed with its endless holiday and travel opportunities. What with its mesmerising beaches, lavish greenery, exotic wildlife and the easy accessibility of locations, such amazing opportunities makes it a 365 destination and a valuable destination which has so much to offer. The Egyptian travel agents gained a valuable experience that they could encourage their fellow countrymen to and pay a visit to this beautiful island paradise.
Egypt carries a very rich and a diverse history dating back to thousands of years, and natural and cultural attractions, and tourism is one of the main sources of income for Egypt. It shares similar values as Sri Lanka as a hospitable nation, ready to help. Sri Lanka Tourism expects to proceed with its promotional activities in Egypt, cementing a strong relationship as well as strengthening cultural and bilateral ties between the two nations.