Sri Lankan government officials say the number of visitors from the Middle East has surged 41 per cent, with August alone seeing a 104 per cent surge. Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Tourism is aiming to increase the tourism sectors contribution to GDP to 10 per cent. The tourism sector generated $400 million in revenue in 2008, only 2 to 3 per cent of the country’s GDP.
A target of 2.5 million tourists to Sri Lanka has been set, consistent with a plan for 2016. Authorities plan to increase the number of hotel rooms to 50,000 within the next seven years. There are currently between 14,000 and 17,000 hotel rooms in the country. Faiszer Musthapha, the Minister for Tourism Promotion in Sri Lanka, talked about ways to strengthen tourism ties with Dubai’s DTCM Director General, Khalid A bin Sulayem. The most important markets for tourism in the Middle East for Sri Lanka are the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
Complex of 18th century castles and gardens. Expansive spaces, truly magnificent views, and astounding architecture. ...
Stein-Am-Rhein is one of Switzerland's loveliest towns. It's located about 20km east of Schaffhausen, as its name would suggest along the Rhine River. Stein-am-Rhein was a small fishing village when the Holy Roman Emperor Henry II moved St. George's Abbey here in 1007. The move was a boon to the city's economy, as the abbey had the ability to mint coins and hold markets. Fr...
This tomb is the resting place of Gul Baba, an Ottoman Dervish who played a part in the capture of Buda in 1541. Known as the ‘Father of Roses’, this tomb is a pilgrimage place for Muslims. You must remove your shoes before entering. Address: II Turbe ter 1 Tel: +326 0062 Times: Mar-Oct 10am-6pm Prices: adult/child 500/250Ft ...
Sunset on a clear day is the best time to visit this mountain, which from its peak offers the best view of Rio de Janeiro. Try to avoid going around 10-11am and 2-3pm which is when the tourist buses arrive. There are two cable cars that connect to the summit. The first ascends 220m to Morro da Urca which has its own restaurant, souvenir shops, a playground and outdoor theatre. The second cable car...