National Geographic, IFC launch Eastern Province Geotourism

Travellers seeking unspoiled places and culturally authentic experiences in the Eastern Province today, have a valuable new resource in a comprehensive online Geotourism MapGuide for the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka.

At the launch of the MapGuide (from left): Director, Findmyfare.com, Thushan Shanmugarajah, Country Manager for Sri Lanka and the Maldives, IFC, Adam Sack, Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, Paddy Withane, Ambassador, The European Union to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, David Daly and Dir

The project implemented in partnership with IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, will improve the contribution of tourism to local economic growth by promoting geotourism.

The Eastern Province Geotourism MapGuide website is one of only 22 Geotourism programs worldwide. It highlights the unique landscapes, people and culture of the East of Sri Lanka.

"The MapGuide presents an opportunity for all stakeholders to work together to promote the region and its highlights," said Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, Paddy Withane.

"Apart from providing a long-term resource to promote the attractions of the East, the project will help boost tourism and support local economic growth," he said.

A community-based nomination process was used to create the MapGuide. Local residents and visitors were able to nominate any landmarks, attractions, activities, events and even local food that define the region's character and distinctive appeal. All sites and attractions that are featured on the website will also receive a certificate of participation from the National Geographic Society.

"The Eastern Province Geotourism website showcases what makes the region culturally and geographically significant," said Director, Tourism Programs, Maps Division for National Geographic Society, James Dion.

"More than ever, this project underscores the importance of connecting local communities, smartly sharing the region's tremendous assets and helping them thrive together for future generations," he said.

The MapGuide can be viewed at www.easternsrilanka.natgeotourism.com and the site will continue to evolve. Tourists and residents can continue to nominate new locations, events and special places to be featured on the site.

"The Geotourism project brings together communities, small businesses and tourism associations, to provide a distinctive tourism experience," said IFC Country Manager for Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Adam Sack.

"By sharing their stories, small businesses help visitors find authentic attractions and offerings which in turn helps boost incomes for local entrepreneurs and supports job creation," he said.

The MapGuide website will be managed by Findmyfare.com, one of Sri Lanka's largest online travel companies, under the guidance of a council comprising representatives from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and other private sector tourism players.

Since its launch in 2012, findmyfare.com has become a one-stop travel shop.

"Our EU experience tells us that ownership is essential for any project to be sustainable and this particular project has the right elements. By involving community members and instilling in them a sense of pride and ownership will ensure that this project is a success," said Ambassador David Daly, Delegation of the European Union to Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

"For the visitors it will be an authentic experience and I am hopeful that the initiative will pave the way for similar action in the rest of the country," he said.

Implemented by the National Geographic Maps Division with IFC, the MapGuide and Geotourism website were produced with the financial support of the European Union's Support to District Development Program (EU-SDDP) and the Royal Government of Norway. Instrumental support was also received from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotions Bureau and Findmyfare.com.

- SJ