Education and training vital for tourist industry
Tourism in Sri Lanka is booming and the need of the hour is to focus
on quality over quantity. The level of education and training is vital
in this regard and will have a positive effect on the industry, a
destination management expert said.
" Tourism is a very large part of the country's economy. Managing the
growth will also steer it in the right direction. With the inherent
advantage of being a friendly and welcoming nation selling the
destination to the travelling public will be a complementary factor,
Abercrombie & Kent, Destination Management, Executive Vice President
Jonathan White said.
The potential for further growth is large as the country recorded
tourist arrivals of over two million and a revenue of US $ 2.5 billion
with a 17 percent growth last year. I believe that this indicates
clearly that there is room for a high end tourist market over and above
the mass market in Sri Lanka. This will project Sri Lanka as an up
market destination
Sri Lanka as a destination has several unique advantages. It could
easily attract the high end tourist segment. By inviting world renown
travel brands will not only ensure a higher quality of service delivered
but will also contribute in improving the quality of the whole product
which is Sri Lanka, he said.
Launched 50 years ago in Kenya by Jeffery Kent who still remains the
chairman and driving force in every thing the company does, Abercrombie
& Kent has 51 offices around the world. The Sri Lanka branch set up
three years ago has a team of 35 Sri Lankans.
Last three years has seen a very good growth. We are aiming to double
the turnover within first 4 years and bring the benefit and experience
of reputed international brand to Sri Lankan market, he said.
- SJ |