By Sri Lanka’s Tourist Boom a Mirage?
Forget champagne corks and confetti cannons. While tourism officials celebrate record numbers, a closer look reveals sandcastles built on shaky ground. We’re chasing the wrong numbers, ignng environmental devastation, and enriching a few while leaving communities high and dry. It’s time to ditch the “more tourists, more money” mentality and embrace a sustainable tourism revolution.
Here’s the dirty laundry:
Tourist tally trouble: Business folks are masquerading as vacationers, skewing the numbers and inflating our “success”.
Foreign exchange fugazi: Who knows where the real money’s going? Credit cards leave no paper trail, and unreported cash magically disappears.
Eco-epic fail: Beaches are littered, mangroves bulldozed, and wildlife weeps as tourism rampages unchecked.
Time for a reality check:
Quality over quantity: Let’s ditch the “tourist hordes” and attract high-rollers who spend big and leave a positive footprint.
Mother Nature matters: No more sacrificing our environment for a quick buck. Stricter rules and conservation efforts are key.
Communities count: Locals shouldn’t be bystanders in their own land. Tourism should empower them, not exploit them.
Sustainability smarts: Short-term gains are tempting, but long-term prosperity demands a responsible approach.
Where’s the plan?
The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority needs to stop hiding behind closed doors. We demand a crystal-clear, 5-year plan that prioritizes sustainability. Let’s have an open discussion, not a one-way monologue. People who have hands on experience must given a chance. I am in departure lounge ,before I get on to my final flight call me said Unawatune Mazda with a chuckle . How ever he politely refused to be photographed saying that he treasures his private and undisturbed life under the palms.
