The travel warning imposed by some Western countries over possible terror strikes against Israeli national’s specially targeting Arugam Bay area has had mixed sentiments to the leisure industry, travel related Associations said.
President, Eastern Province Tourism Association, M. Jauffer, lashed out at the manner in which the global warnings were posted by some Western countries.
He said that if they published such a travel advisory before the Easter Sunday attacks, the attack could have been avoided and over 250 lives including those of Americans, Britishers and other foreign tourists could have been saved.
“But in that instance the ‘possible threat’ was only communicated to security institutions and not to the whole world.”
He questioned as to why this ‘quick warning responsibility’ was hidden, during that time.
He said that this advisory has resulted in some cancellation which is bad for the Arugam Bay tourism sector which is limping back to normalcy.”
“One must also remember that Arugam Bay is a seasonal destination and cancellations of this nature can create issues for the industry.
Meanwhile, officials of several hotels in the area said that the foreign guests are ‘staying on’ and charter groups that want to check in are inquiring about their security. “But there have been no cancellations so far.”
However, some Israeli tourists had already left the Arugam Bay area.
President, Tourist Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL) M. Shanthikumar said that as far as city hotels are concerned they don’t see any cancellations so far.
The Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLITO) officials said that they want Sri Lanka Tourism to play a more aggressive role and engage with leisure sector stakeholders and tourists. Following is the statement issued by Sri Lanka Tourism. Sri Lanka Tourism extends a warm invitation to travellers from around the world to visit Sri Lanka during the upcoming tourist season.
“We ensure that all tourists can enjoy a safe and secure experience while exploring the beauty of our island. The highest levels of safety and security will be maintained for all visitors throughout their stay in Sri Lanka.”
The Ministry of Defence has also assured Sri Lanka Tourism that measures have been taken to guarantee the safety of tourists across all areas of the country, ensuring peace of mind for those currently staying in Sri Lanka and for those planning their visits.
