In a significant boost to Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, renowned travel magazine Condé Nast Traveller has featured the island nation in its prestigious “The 24 Best Places to Go in 2024” list. The recognition comes as Sri Lanka makes strides in recovering from economic challenges, marking a pivotal moment for the country’s travel and hospitality industry.
Sri Lanka’s Hospitality Excellence Recognized Worldwide
Sri Lanka’s prominence in the global travel scene is not new, as evidenced by previous accolades. In 2023, Condé Nast Traveller acknowledged the excellence of Hotel Ceylon Tea Trails in Hatton, listing it among the world’s finest hotels and resorts. Moreover, in 2022, the country earned a spot among the “Top 10 Friendliest Countries in the World” in the Reader’s Choice Awards hosted by the same prestigious magazine.
Luxury and Wellness Boom in Sri Lanka
Condé Nast Traveller highlights Sri Lanka’s tourism renaissance, emphasizing a luxury and wellness boom. The feature spotlights new luxury resorts, including Kayaam House and Ahu Bay by Resplendent Ceylon, a Hilton resort near Yala National Park, and The Charleston in UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. Kalukanda House in Weligama stands out for its female empowerment-focused retreats.
Exciting Developments and Events
Sri Lanka’s tourism calendar is packed with exciting developments. Meraki, a nine-room retreat in Matara, is set to be unveiled in early 2024, featuring yoga, holistic treatments, island-sourced vegetarian fare, and artisanal crafts. The Galle Literary Festival returns after a five-year hiatus in January, featuring renowned literary figures. Additionally, Gourmet Galle, a new food festival, will showcase 12 chefs in diverse venues from beaches to paddy fields over a 12-week period from January to March.
Pekoe Trail and Inland Exploration
Inland, the development of the Pekoe Trail, a nearly 200-mile network of hiking routes through Sri Lanka’s highlands, is underway. This trail offers a unique experience, traversing tea plantations, colonial estates, local villages, holy shrines, and biodiverse forests. Accommodations like W15 Hanthana, Goatfell, and the upcoming Kelburne Estate provide boutique stays, enhancing the allure of Sri Lanka’s lush hill country.
As Sri Lanka embraces a new era of tourism, its resilience, cultural richness, and natural beauty continue to captivate the hearts of global travelers, making it a must-visit destination in 2024.
