City Hotels’ boss says successful CHOGM a big boost for tourism

Friday, 29 November 2013 00:36 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Colombo City Tourist Hotels Association President M. Shanthikumar stated the publicity awareness received from CHOGM will certainly boost the image of country in a massive way.

“Most importantly, the arrival of Prince Charles resulted in great publicity to Sri Lanka. His arrival was broadcast via worldwide media, which I would say is priceless,” he said. Shanthikumar said the successful Business Forum certainly would be a great strength in promoting Sri Lanka not only for tourism but for all other sectors, with some of the business leaders visiting Sri Lanka for the first time and experiencing the beauty and cultural value of Sri Lanka. “The exposure of the destination and city hotels resulted in tremendous recognition due to CHOGM being held in Colombo, which will certainly boost tourism and investment,” he added. Under the leadership of Chairman Bashwara Gunaratne and assisted by Managing Director Rumy Jauffer, Sri Lanka Tourism made all efforts in bringing a large number of approximately 450 TRAVEL AGENTS from 14 countries for the Tourism Business Forum. “This I would say is one of the largest tourism delegations to have ever visited Sri Lanka at any point of time and Sri Lanka Tourism has made sure to select the correct emerging and feeder market to attend this forum,” the Colombo City Tourist Hotels Association Chief said. Where accommodation and logistics are concerned for CHOGM Head of States and delegates and the Business Forum, Shanthikumar said it was organised professionally and immaculately without any shortcomings under the direct supervision of Minister Basil Rajapaksa of the Economic Affairs Ministry. “A special mention must be made about the transformation of the city’s look and feel and beautification under the direct supervision of Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa, which was tremendous, and all city hoteliers are certainly grateful. I would say CHOGM was successful and beneficial not only for tourism but for all other sectors,” Shathikumar said, adding, “City hotels are enjoying average occupancy of 80% and I’m certain this will continue in the busy season ahead.”