Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB) hosted a group of MICE agents and media persons from China for a familiarisation tour in Sri Lanka. China is the third largest tourism generating market for Sri Lanka and 88,189 Chinese tourists arrived in the country up to end August 2024. 

A 14-member delegation arrived on 5 September and explored Sri Lanka during their seven-day tour in the country. The delegation visited the tourism attractions in Colombo, Cultural Triangle, Kandy and Down South.

The agents explored key destinations, including the cultural triangle – featuring Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Polonnaruwa – alongside the sacred city of Kandy, the bustling metropolis of Colombo, and the scenic southern coast, including Galle. This itinerary was designed to provide an immersive experience of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, diverse landscapes and the authentic product offer. The delegation had a comprehensive tour in BMICH, Colombo Port City and also given the opportunity of inspecting newly open venues in Colombo and Down South with meeting facilities. 

During their stay in Colombo, a B2B meeting was organised where local travel agents including Destination Management Companies (DMCs) and hotel representatives were given the opportunity of meeting the visiting Chinese agents. The B2B meeting was an excellent platform for the agents to network, discuss potential collaborations, and again insights into the local MICE offerings, further enhancing their understanding of Sri Lanka as an ideal destination for future business events.

The familiarisation tour was organised with the assistance of Sri Lanka Consulate in Shanghai and the Bureau will see the possibility of arranging similar tours from other provinces of China in the future. 

Read the original article here: https://www.ft.lk/travel-tourism/Sri-Lanka-Convention-Bureau-hosts-familiarisation-tour-for-Chinese-MICE-agents-and-media/27-767355