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Sri Lanka Drafts Operational Guidelines on Preparedness and Response For COVID-19

Colombo airport official with masks on directing passengers to there request
Preparing to resume tourism operations in Sri Lanka, Sri Lankan Tourism Development Authority has drafted guidelines for the industry.

Preparing to resume tourism operations in Sri Lanka, Sri Lankan Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) has drafted a set of guidelines for the industry. The guideline outlines stringent measures on preparedness and response for COVID-19 outbreak and covers all the aspects of travel from arrival to departure of a tourist.

The operational guidelines thoroughly explain the regulations and precautionary measures which will be implemented once finalised. As per the guideline, entry procedure requires a prior booking of the tour package online or through an SLTDA registered travel agency. Having a confirmed booking in an SLTDA registered and COVID certified hotel is mandatory and a pre-requisite for Visa. Travellers are required to submit health insurance, tour booking details and a valid return ticket to obtain the visa. Visa on arrival will not be issued until an official announcement is made by the government of Sri Lanka.

Furthermore, a negative PCR report or positive antibody test taken two weeks prior to arriving in Sri Lanka must be uploaded with the visa application. If not, travellers are to produce one at the Colombo Airport on arrival. In addition to thorough disinfection procedures for body, luggage and travel documents, tourists would undergo temperature checks as well as a PCR test or Rapid test upon the time of arrival. Staff and passengers must wear face masks, maintaining social distancing norm, and using sanitizer frequently at the airport.

According to the draft guidelines, airport transfers will only be allowed through registered taxis, arranged buses, pre-approved vehicles. Travel options for tourists within the country includes tourist buses for tour groups, hired taxis from travel agencies or other registered taxis or registered rented vehicles. The use of public transport will not be allowed until further notice.

In addition to that, several measures have been proposed in the guidelines with regards to accommodation facilities, tourist facilities and services, travel agencies and tour operators, tourist activities and more.

Sri Lanka had been battling COVID-19 since late January 2020. As of yet, the country has seen 1028 cases of the virus and recorded 09 deaths, while 584 has recovered from it.

Feature image by asiatimesonline
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Maldives Signs Partnership with Liverpool FC as Official Tourist Destination

Liverpool FC and Maldives sign Tourism Partnership

The Maldives, renowned for its breathtaking islands and luxurious resorts, has taken a bold step to enhance its global tourism reach through an exciting new partnership with Liverpool Football Club (LFC). Announced by the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/ Visit Maldives), this multi-year agreement designates the Maldives as the official tourist destination partner of one of the world’s most iconic football clubs, covering both the men’s and women’s teams. This partnership aims to showcase the Maldives to a vast international audience, thereby driving a surge in high-value tourism to the island nation.

A Global Stage for the Maldives

Liverpool FC engages an audience of over 205 million followers globally, giving Visit Maldives an unparalleled platform to attract potential travelers. By leveraging the club’s influential reach, the Maldives plans to draw an additional 100,000 tourists in 2025, generating over $100 million for the country’s tourism revenue. Additionally, on April 2nd, during a high-profile match against Everton, the Maldives will unveil the partnership, with branding prominently displayed on LED boards at Anfield Stadium, ensuring millions of viewers worldwide see it.

This strategic alliance extends beyond brand visibility at LFC matches. Visit Maldives will place billboards across Europe, targeting affluent travelers in key markets, and secure coverage in LFC’s official publications and digital platforms. With LFC’s TV audience exceeding 211 million per season and 53 million followers on social and digital channels, the Maldives positions itself as a top destination for luxury travelers and football fans alike.

Exclusive Experiences and Sports Tourism

Moreover, this partnership offers the Maldives unique opportunities, including the creation of a Liverpool Academy in the Maldives, further boosting sports tourism. The academy will attract aspiring athletes and football fans, blending their love for the sport with the beauty of the Maldives’ stunning surroundings. In addition, additional fan zones, appearances by LFC legends, and interactive digital campaigns will further engage audiences and drive travel interest.

As a part of this effort, Visit Maldives will incorporate these activations into their global events, fairs, and roadshows, building a cohesive branding presence that emphasizes the Maldives as a luxury destination. The partnership will reach over 397 million people per season, with an expected media value of over $17 million annually, thus delivering a significant return on investment.

A Shared Commitment to Sustainability

Beyond tourism, this partnership reflects a mutual dedication to sustainability. Both LFC and the Maldives commit to protecting the environment, with LFC’s “The Red Way” program promoting sustainability in sports, while Visit Maldives champions ocean conservation and eco-friendly tourism. Since the Maldives faces challenges from rising sea levels and climate change, this collaboration highlights the importance of sustainable practices in preserving the island nation’s unique ecosystem.

Ben Latty, LFC’s Chief Commercial Officer, highlights the mutual goals of sustainability and unforgettable experiences in this partnership. Meanwhile, Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO & MD of Visit Maldives, expresses pride in aligning with Liverpool FC, noting that the collaboration will bring the Maldives closer to millions of passionate football fans and offer them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the “Sunny Side of Life.”

Forging a New Era in Global Tourism

This partnership between Visit Maldives and Liverpool FC marks a significant milestone in the Maldives’ tourism marketing strategy. Not only does it strengthen the Maldives’ position as a premier luxury destination, but it also connects with global football fans, inviting them to experience the beauty and tranquility of the islands. Ultimately, by combining world-class tourism with the passion of football, the Maldives aims to capture the hearts of millions, inspiring them to choose the Maldives for their next unforgettable adventure.

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