Sri Lanka participates in international tourism promotion event “Ferien Messe Wien – 2025” in Vienna

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, in collaboration with the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Vienna, participated in the “Ferien Messe Wien – 2025”, the 46th International Tourism Promotion event in Vienna from 16 to 19 January 2025. Sri Lanka’s participation was a resounding success with every effort taken to promote “Sri Lanka brand” among European travellers, especially among Austrians.

Ferien Messe Wien – 2025 attracted more than 71,000 visitors, offering them a blend of breathtaking experiences, global travel trends and exciting entertainment. With the participation of over 430 national and international exhibitors, the event provided an unparalleled platform to showcase destinations, culinary delights and cultural traditions.

The Sri Lanka stand at the event added a vibrant and exotic holiday atmosphere to visitors’ experience, highlighting Sri Lanka as one of the world’s most captivating destinations. It reflected the country’s massive touristic potential, and displayed exquisite traditional handicrafts, such as wooden masks and branded elephants, tea boutique counter and promotional items including Sri Lankan branded caps, key tags and brochures. Ceylon tea was served to the guests who visited the stand.

The Sri Lanka stand was inaugurated by Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Austria M.R.K. Lenagala. In his remarks, the Ambassador appreciated the commitment of the participating travel/tour operators and tour companies. The Ambassador also commended their valuable contributions to attract tourists to Sri Lanka which is evident from the increasing numbers. Representatives from the Delux Holidays Ltd., B H Lanka Ltd., Aitken Spence Travels, Serene Vacations Lanka Ltd., Butterflies Ltd., Travel Trends Leisure Ltd., Camlo Lanka Tours, Celestia Ayurveda Resort, Walkers Tours Ltd., Jagath Tours and Travels, Wanderlustasia, Lotus Destinations Lanka Ltd., Ocean Gate Travels and Tours Ltd., were present at the Sri Lanka stand.

Sri Lanka was allocated one slot at the main stage per day, scheduled during peak hours to maximise engagement with the audience. A German language video presentation and Sri Lanka upcountry and low country dance performances were featured at the main stage. SLTB Junior Manager – Strategic Planning and Research Jagath Perera delivered the welcome speech on each day featuring the traditional Sri Lankan greeting “Ayubowan” and emphasis on Sri Lanka’s unique attractions.

The Popular Tik Tok bloggers of Goofy.tv, Colja and Gabriel shared experiences gained during their 14-day media familiarisation tour in Sri Lanka with the audience. The content they published on TikTok on the tour to Sri Lanka has garnered two million views, significantly boosting Sri Lanka’s visibility among younger audiences. In addition, the renowned author of “Sri Lanka – faszinierende Begegnungen (Fascinating Encounters)”, Renate Reisch shared her insights and experiences. This was followed by a presentation by the winner of the last year’s raffle draw, David Rodriguez Coronado regarding his 14-day tour experience in Sri Lanka, which captivated the audience with his vivid storytelling.

The “Experience of the Exotic Flavours of Sri Lanka” presented by Sri Lankan Chef Ruwan Fernando, who has over 25 years of experience in the culinary sector was one of the most vibrant and attractive events for the visitors. Chef Fernando prepared iconic Sri Lankan dishes including kottu roti, vegetable roti, and “special spicy curries” using authentic Sri Lankan spices while holding culinary sessions. It attracted crowds who were delighted to taste Sri Lanka’s rich and diverse flavours.

The award-winning wildlife film “The Great Elephant Gathering of Asia (Minneriya National Park)” was screened on the second day of the event. The screening was supported by Oshini Alagiyawanna.

In parallel to the main event, the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Vienna organised three cultural food promotional events at three popular shopping malls in Vienna. The massive audiences were served with Sri Lankan cuisine and Ceylon tea, showcasing the Sri Lankan hospitality. Moreover, Pradeep Wickramesinghe’s dancing group in Milan performed traditional dances.

Quiz and raffle draw programs were conducted by the SLTPB in collaboration with three tour operating companies, at the three shopping malls. Winners received travel vouchers to stay 5 days in Sri Lanka with wellness packages and Ayurveda treatments. Prizes were distributed through the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Vienna, generating excitement and goodwill among attendees.

Sri Lanka’s participation in the “Ferien Messe Wien – 2025” received extensive media attention across television, social media platforms and news outlets. The showcasing of Sri Lanka’s unique culture, heritage and tourism attractions to an international audience for four days enhanced the country brand recognition among many stakeholders. The program boosted Sri Lanka’s image as a must-visit destination among European and Austrian travellers, strengthening the country’s position as a preferred long-haul destination.