Recognising the potentional in the Thai market, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) in collaboration with the Sri Lankan Embassy in Thailand initiated the inaugural participation at the Thai International Travel Fair (TITF) from 17-21 February.
TITF is regarded as Thailand’s largest outbound fair attracting over 800,000 visitors with over 400 booths nationally and globally. The event is organised by the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) and supported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand. This is one of the major events in the Thai tourism calendar.
The SLTPB booth at TITF showcasing the rich cultural heritage and tourist attractions of Sri Lanka was ceremonially declared opened by Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Thailand Kshenuka Senewiratne and ATTA President Suparerk Soorangura, by lighting the traditional oil lamp to highlight a glimpse of Sri Lankan tradition.
SLTPB’s launch into the Thai travel market was supported by Sri Lankan Airlines and five Sri Lankan travel companies, who have travelled from Sri Lanka to develop business links and take advantage of the tremendous marketing opportunities this fair offers.
A traditional cultural performance by a dance troupe from the Western Province Aesthetic Resort added glamour to the event and enticed potential travellers to come to the Sri Lankan booth.
On the sideline of TITF, a reception and B2b meetings were arranged with the tourism industry stakeholders of Sri Lanka and Thailand at Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok. The main purpose of this was to create a platform for business generation between the two countries.
“Sri Lanka Tourism will continue to grow this market with a focus on leisure and religious tourism to increase tourist arrivals on a year-on-year basis. We have great potential to grow this market further,” said Chami Lanka Gasnawage, officer handling the Thai market.
Sri Lanka Travel Feneteko