Auckland’s Cordis Hotel was abuzz on 22nd October as the Sri Lanka Tourism Bureau hosted a dynamic roadshow aimed at New Zealand travel agents, showcasing the island nation’s unmatched blend of culture, adventure, and luxury experiences.
More than 70 agents from across New Zealand attended, eager to gain firsthand insights into selling Sri Lanka to Kiwi travellers.
More than 30 Sri Lankan suppliers were on hand, representing luxury resorts, boutique properties, wellness retreats, cultural experiences, and adventure activities. Agents had the opportunity to engage directly with suppliers, ask questions, and learn about the latest offerings and promotions, ensuring they are well-equipped to create bespoke itineraries for clients.
The roadshow concluded with a gala dinner that truly captured the spirit of Sri Lanka. Guests enjoyed a curated menu of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, providing a taste of the island’s rich culinary heritage. The evening opened with a symbolic oil lamp lighting ceremony, signifying prosperity, good fortune, and new beginnings. Adding to the spectacle, a professional Sri Lankan dance troupe based in Auckland performed four vibrant dances, immersing guests in the rhythms and movements that define the country’s cultural traditions.
Attending agents praised the event as both informative and inspiring. Many highlighted the chance to network directly with suppliers as invaluable, saying it would help them confidently sell Sri Lanka and provide clients with authentic experiences that go beyond standard tourist offerings.
The event successfully balanced business and culture, leaving New Zealand agents with not only enhanced knowledge of the destination but also a memorable sensory experience of Sri Lanka itself. With tourism steadily rebounding, the roadshow positions Sri Lanka as an increasingly attractive option for Kiwi travellers seeking a combination of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
