(COLOMBO, LANKAPUVATH) –Sri Lanka is continuing to be the top destination for 2019 despite the Easter Sunday terror attacks, travel publisher Lonely Planet said.
The travel publication, one of the most popular in the world, maintained Sri Lanka as number one, while warning readers to check travel advisories of their governments before travelling to the island nation.
“At the present time, foreign governments are advising caution, but are not warning against travel to Sri Lanka,” Lonely Planet said.
On Sunday, Lonely Planet Writer Caterina Hrysomallis said that the world should not give up on Sri Lanka.
“While we don’t discount the fear many travellers feel, we should not allow events like this to deter us from continuing to explore, learn and break down stereotypes,” she said.
“The country has been upset, but continues to be an incredible place to visit. It still tops our Best in Travel for 2019.”
She said Sri Lanka deserves the top spot for its food, ‘epic train rides’, and scenic hills and beaches.
Tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka fell 70 percent in May, amidst foreign governments warning against travel to Sri Lanka.
Most such advisories have now been relaxed.
Sri Lanka’s Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera and Sri Lanka Tourism Promotions Bureau Chairman Kishu Gomes have said that arrivals are now recovering faster than expected.
