Experience Travel Group has warned that flights and accommodation will be snapped up quickly after dates were confirmed for next year’s two-Test cricket series in Sri Lanka, part of the ICC World Test Championship.
The tour operator has urged agents to act quickly to book clients keen to attend matches after the England Cricket Board announced the first test match will be played in Galle while the capital Colombo will stage the Second Test at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, between March 27-31.
Sam Clark, co-founder and managing director, added that the event could help boost bookings back to Sri Lanka, which suffered a downturn following the Easter Sunday terrorist bombings on April 21 this year.
He said: “Sri Lanka effectively missed three months’ worth of winter bookings in May, June and July [during the FCO’s advice against all but essential travel] meaning the traditional season from December to March will be well down on previous years in terms of arrivals.
“This is a real opportunity for cricket fans and indeed any agent looking for a high quality experiential, winter sun destination for their clients.”
He said holidaymakers would have the chance to combine a trip round the country with watching the cricket. Holidaymakers can put together a tailormade guided trip to take in UNESCO World Heritage sites, wildlife, or tea plantations.
He said: “We know there are cricket lovers who’ve always wanted to do an overseas tour but want to take the opportunity to see a new country and have a brilliant holiday at the same time. Being able to go the cricket as well just heightens the experience.”
Experience Travel Group has put its Curious Traveller Cricket Tour to Sri Lanka on sale, offering the opportunity to watch the English cricket team playing in both locations.