Finally Some Good News From Sri Lanka

With two clients in Sri Lanka - Resplendent Ceylon and ANI Private Resorts - we have been keeping a close eye on the evolving political situation in one of our favourite countries. The below update from Malik J. Fernando, Managing Director of Resplendent Ceylon, is full of the good news and hope we have been waiting to hear, and is confirmation that peace and stability are returning to the pearl of the Indian Ocean.

Cape Weligama

In the past couple of weeks there has been a welcome return to stability, with the new President firmly focused on law & order, and the economic restructuring critical to restoring the well-being of the populace. Parliament reconvened last week and the President made what I thought was an inspiring Policy Statement. The main protest has ended and the protestors have vacated the site. The fuel situation has improved significantly. We expect remaining advisories will be relaxed shortly - there is no further justification.

Our recent guests have had memorable stays, visiting the national parks, monuments and tea fields, enjoying a seamless experience with Resplendent service and smooth transfers. Our resorts operated normally throughout. We made this film with guests staying in July.

Tourists were never at risk during the protests. Tourism is a key driver of the Sri Lankan economy and supports an incredible value chain which over 10% of the population or 2.5m people rely on. Being hospitable to foreigners is how many Sri Lankan make a living. There has been a welcome pickup in bookings now Sri Lanka is off the front pages.

Our commitment and passion at Ceylon Tea Trails, Wild Coast Tented Lodge and Cape Weligama towards curating meaningful journeys has never been stronger. We are resuming our key market sales calls and hope we are able to meet at some point. Looking forward to see your guests in our island home soon.

Warm wishes,

Malik J. Fernando - Managing Director

Wild Coast Tented Lodge