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Operators are backing a campaign of cut-price deals to get Sri Lanka back on its feet amid reports of a surge in enquiries.
Tourism campaign ‘Love Sri Lanka’ is being run by the Sri Lanka Tourism Alliance, set up by professionals from the destination’s private tourism sector after the Easter Sunday attacks to promote the country internationally. The Foreign Office relaxed its travel advice on June 6.
Experience Travel Group (ETG), Pettitts Travel and Bamboo Travel have joined the alliance and are discounting to boost bookings.
ETG co-founder Sam Clark said enquiries had returned “in a significant way” over the weekend.
He added: “The Sri Lanka tourism industry has come together in an unprecedented way to rebuild confidence. We are fully behind this campaign.”
The operator has slashed prices until the end of November. A 14-night package with flights, private chauffeur guide, and four and five-star hotels costs £2,975, a saving of £752.
Pettitts Travel is offering £150 off Sri Lanka holidays booked by July 31, based on a minimum spend of £2,500, and is promoting holidays via mailshots and social media. Head of product David Pettitt said: “We’re keen to get across that it is a safe place to travel.”
Bamboo Travel plans a social media campaign and is promoting Sri Lanka in its trade newsletter and digital marketing. Director Robin Ball said hotel discounts meant Sri Lanka was “fantastic value”, adding that it was an “excellent time to visit” as it was quieter than normal.
Meanwhile, Kuoni is creating a film with TV presenter Anita Rani about her recent visit, producing an offers booklet and adding a tab on its website to promote Sri Lanka deals.
Premier Holidays has seen “big demand” for Sri Lanka in the last week and released offers with posters for agents to download.
Sri Lanka specialist Travel Gallery is running a trade event to promote Sri Lanka on September 19.
More: Trade welcomes return to Sri Lanka
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