For the first time in Sri Lanka, tourism bodies will engage youth (under the age of 30) to find new ways to revive the industry post-Covid-19.
The President of the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators(SLAITO) Mahen Kariyawasam said this was the best time to engage the youth who are more tech-savvy and understand the needs of modern-day travellers.
SLAITO, with the help of the Youth Wing to be set up soon, also hopes to explore unpromoted destinations to attract more tourists following what is dubbed as ‘the worst months for tourism’.
Inbound tourism reached zero arrivals in April as airports were closed to curtail the spread of Covid-19.
The inaugural brainstorming session of the Youth Wing is expected to be held early next week.
Kariyawasam said tourism will not pick up for at least six months. SLAITO hopes to use this time to find new ways to promote the island and encourage more visitors.
Key travel bodies will unite under the banner “One Industry One Voice” to stand together as travel restrictions are gradually eased.
The Association for Small and Medium Enterprises in Tourism (ASMET), Exhibition and Event Organisers (SLAPCEO), Travel Agents Association of Sri Lanka (TAASL), and the Board of Airline Representatives (BAR) will merge under a special membership with SLAITO.
“We have common problems. Through this new venture we can get together, solve our problems and promote Sri Lanka,” Kariyawasam said.