The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau took their worldwide ‘Destination Sri Lanka’ and ‘Visit Sri Lanka 2011′ campaigns to the “New York Times 2010 Travel Show”

It was held last at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Centre. Sri Lanka’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Dr. Palitha Kohona inaugurated the event.

Dillan Ariyawansa, Honorary Director for Sri Lanka Tourism in the USA said this was a fine opportunity for them to showcase the multitude of tourist attractions Sri Lanka has to offer. In addition, the New York Times has put Sri Lanka as the number one place to go this year.
Despite having everything, and being known to everyone, Sri Lanka had not become the top destination until this year. Three decades of civil war made many parts of the island inaccessible, dried out the investment dollars, and kept the visitors away. That conflict finally
ended last May. Mr. Ariyawansa said things have changed, peace has been established and everyone has started working together. He added that rebuilding tourism has become a top priority for both the Government and the private sector.

To add color, Channa and Upuli dance troupe from Sri Lanka performed as well, showcasing what an exotic destination Sri Lanka is. Interest in Sri Lanka was apparent with the excited crowds constantly around the booth, whether to pick up brochures or watch the dancers to learn more about the destination.