2008 News Archive - Holidays - Sri Lankan tourism 'will benefit communities'

14 02 2007

With tourism flourishing once again in Sri Lanka, the United Nations Development Programme has offered $275,000 to ensure it remains sustainable.

Sri Lanka suffered considerable damage as a result of the Boxing Day Tsunami in 2004, when 35,000 people tragically lost their lives.

But the island nation's recovery has been remarkable, thanks in part to the aid offered from various charities around the world. As reported recently in the Times, the destroyed hotels have now been repaired and many new ones have been built to cater for escalating demand.

The island's coastline remains as stunning as ever and the authorities are taking care to redevelop the tourism industry in a responsible and environmentally-friendly manner.

According to the Asian Tribune, the $275,000 from the United Nations Development Programme will be split between 25 coastal zones. The money will help to "protect the interests of the local communities" and "strengthen their involvement in all tourism related activities".

With its awe-inspiring tropical forests, paradisiacal beaches and impressive cultural heritage, Sri Lanka is one of the gems of the Indian Ocean. Thanks to the financial support of organisations such as the UN, it appears that the industry is in good hands, which bodes well for visitors over the coming years.