Tourism industry records best-ever January arrivals

 

• Welcomes 252,761 visitors, surpassing previous high of 238,924 tourists in 2018
• Records 21.4% YoY increase compared to 2024, 6% compared to January 2018
• Daily average arrivals pick up to 8,154 from 6,718 in January 2024
• Misses ambitious 305,687 monthly target by 52,926 visitors
• India, Russia and UK emerge as top source markets

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry has achieved a record-breaking start to 2025, welcoming 252,761 visitors in January, surpassing the previous high of 238,924 registered in 2018.

This surge in arrivals reflects a strong recovery for the sector, with expectations rising for continued momentum throughout the year.

Last week, the Daily FT exclusively reported that the month would end with the highest January arrivals (https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Tourism-surge-poised-to-hit-highest-with-January-arrivals/44-772488).

The latest figures mark a 21.4% year-on-year (YoY) increase compared to the same period last year and a 6% improvement over the 2018 benchmark year.

The latest data showed that the average arrivals also climbed to 8,154, up from 6,718 last year, and higher than the 7,707 registered in January 2018.

On a weekly basis, the month saw a steady influx in visitor numbers, with the first week registering 54,851 tourists, 57,560 in the second week, 57,473 in the third week, and the final week recording a notable 82,877 travellers.

Despite the strong performance, January’s total arrivals fell short of Sri Lanka Tourism’s ambitious 305,687 monthly target by 52,926 visitors.

India emerged as the single biggest source market, contributing 43,375 tourists, followed by Russia with 34,096 travellers, the UK with 21,739 visitors, China with 16,709 tourists, and Germany with 15,050 visitors. In addition, travellers from France, Australia, Poland, the US, and Netherlands were also welcomed during the month.

Industry suggests improved air connectivity, global accolades, and renewed confidence in the country’s stability aided the boost in the destination’s appeal.

The extension of tax concessions for airlines operating into the country’s three key airports – the Jaffna International Airport, Colombo International Airport (Ratmalana), and Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport – were seen as assisting the steady increase of international tourist footfall during January.

On 6 January, the Cabinet of Ministers extended a 50% waiver on deviation tax for airlines operating scheduled flights to Jaffna International Airport till 30 January 2026, airlines servicing Colombo International Airport (Ratmalana) got a 50% waiver for one year starting 27 March 2025, and expanded full deviation tax concession to the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport for another year from 29 December 2024.

For 2025, Sri Lanka Tourism is expecting to draw 3 million tourists and generate $ 5 billion in revenue. In 2024, the country welcomed 2.05 million visitors, generating over $ 3.2 billion in revenue, registering a substantial 52.38% YoY increase.

Last week, Tourism Deputy Minister Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe said the Government is set for a major shake-up in its tourism industry with the establishment of a National Tourism Commission, a move aimed at streamlining decision-making and boosting efficiency – which is part of broader reforms including a newly approved Tourism Act – to modernise regulations and enhance governance in the industry. (CdeS). Tourism industry records best-ever January arrivals | Daily FT

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Sri Lanka’s south coast crowned as winter’s hottest travel destination by Vogue

• In a dazzling spotlight on Sri Lanka’s allure, Vogue has names the island’s south coast as the must-visit destination this winter, capturing the hearts of wanderers with its unspoiled beaches, vibrant wildlife, tranquil tea estates and immersive cultural experiences.
• Through a vivid feature titled ‘Waves to Wildlife, Tea to Tranquility: Sri Lanka’s south coast is this winter’s hottest destination’ penned by Christine Chitnis, the international lifestyle magazine portrays the southern stretch as the ultimate haven for those seeking warmth, adventure and serenity during the colder months.
• The feature published on 8 January, unfolds a sensory journey through Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and its enduring spirit of resilience. Chitnis, a renowned photographer and travel journalist explores the south coast’s myriad of natural offerings, where luxury and adventure harmoniously converge.
• “Sri Lanka’s landscapes are vast and varied, welcoming and wild. This island nation of 22 million is a place where leopards slip like a whisper through the undergrowth, blue whales breach offshore, tea estates paint the hill region a lush green, and ancient Buddhist and Hindu temples whisper stories of centuries past. In the coastal towns, surfers line the golden sand beaches and tuk-tuks zip along twisting roads, their horns blending with the rhythmic clink of fishmongers’ knives and the sizzle of hoppers frying in street stalls. Plates heaped with rice and aromatic curries showcase the island’s culinary riches, while orange king coconuts are cracked open and offered as a sweet, refreshing balm to the humid heat,” she described.
• (https://www.vogue.com/article/sri-lanka-south-coast-travel) Sri Lanka’s south coast crowned as winter’s hottest travel destination by Vogue | Daily FT

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The magic of audio deepening travel experience with kids

New Delhi, (IANSlife) The adventure of hitting the open road with kids! A mix of exhilaration, boundless curiosity, and yes, the unavoidable stretches of "Mum, are we there yet?" Throughout our family trips, I've stumbled upon a quiet hero that makes our journeys more delightful, and that’s audio. Let's walk through how this unassuming gem has transformed our travels.

Doorways to adventures and amazing time-fillers

Long drives or flights, especially with my sprightly daughter, have their moments of restlessness. And here, audiobooks and journals have been a godsend.

On one such journey, I remember introducing my daughter to an audio tale set in a mystical forest. As the narrative unfolded, the mundane road we were on transformed in her eyes. Each tree we passed became part of that fantastical forest, every town a hub of enchanting inhabitants.

The best part? The usual barrage of "Are we there yet?" was replaced with "Can we listen to one more chapter?" The relief and joy, knowing she was both entertained and engaged, was immeasurable.

A solution to motion-sickness among kids

It’s very common for kids to feel motion sickness as they travel in different vehicles. Audio is proven to cure motion sickness as it helps distract and comfort kids. Along with audio, we have been able to travel further and longer with lessening or no episodes of nausea.

Audio as an Introduction to Destination Wonders

Traditional travel guides, with their pages of historical data and must-see spots, are useful. But when it comes to kids, a more engaging companion can make all the difference. Audiobooks craft stories that breathe life into our chosen destinations.

Envision this: Before a family trip to Rome, your children indulge in tales that whirl around the Roman Empire or the gladiators in the Colosseum, and when they finally stand before these majestic monuments, there's an instant connection.

Making Memories: Crafting the Trip’s Playlist

The universality of music offers a unique advantage during travels. Whether it's tapping feet to local tunes or humming along to global hits, songs become an integral part of a journey's rhythm. Before trips, it's great to curate playlists with your child with their current favourites.

One of my favourite memories is how my daughter heard a song on the radio that was playing during one of our road trips and this became her anthem of the trip! Even months later when that same song was played she would remember fondly where she heard it and we would discuss the wonderful memories of our trip together! I loved how it transported me and her back to that joyful moment!

A Journey of Growth and LearningBeyond the realms of entertainment and engagement, there's a subtle yet profound layer of learning infused within audio content. As children listen, they absorb – be it vocabulary, moral values, cultural nuances, or historical tidbits. Coupled with real-world experiences, these stories and songs stimulate deeper conversations and reflections. The magic of audio deepening travel experience with kids | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com

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Sri Lanka ranks 5th among ‘World’s Best Countries to Visit in Your Lifetime, 2024’

• Sri Lanka has been recognized as the 5th best country to visit in your lifetime, according to CEOWORLD Magazine’s prestigious rankings for 2024.
• The accolade highlights Sri Lanka’s diverse offerings and unique experiences that captivate travellers from around the globe. Sri Lanka continues to bask in the spotlight as one of the world’s top travel destinations, the recognition serves as a testament to the country’s enduring allure and unwavering hospitality.
• CEOWORLD Magazine recently unveiled its list of the best countries to visit, providing invaluable insights to help travellers choose their next vacation destination. The rankings, based on feedback from over 295,000 readers, reflect the highest level of participation in the magazine’s history.
• Sri Lanka’s impressive ranking is attributed to its enchanting hill country, which offers a myriad of experiences for travellers of all interests with a total score of 60.53.
• “The hill country of Sri Lanka offers a wide range of experiences for travellers of all kinds, whether it’s Ayurveda treatment, unforgettable train rides, or visiting a tea plantation. The country is rich in culture and traditions, with the Poya ritual being the most significant one celebrated at Buddhist temples. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy a wholesome Sri Lankan breakfast, dine under the stars, and stay overnight in one of the country’s National Parks. Additionally, Sri Lanka is a great destination for shopping enthusiasts, who can find gems, batik, tea, handloom fabrics, leather goods, antiques, jewellery, and ceramics,” the CEOWORLD Magazine noted about Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka ranks 5th among ‘World’s Best Countries to Visit in Your Lifetime, 2024’ | Daily FT

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Setback for visa-free tourism push

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• By Charumini de Silva: The visa-free arrivals push for select seven countries aimed at boosting tourism has hit a snag with the scheme being delayed by several weeks.
• Contrary to earlier announcements by Tourism Minister Harin Fernando following Cabinet approval, Immigration and Emigration Department Controller General Harsha Ilukpitiya
• said the implementation of this initiative will not take effect immediately, but is projected to be realised in the second week of November.
• “The approved proposal from the Cabinet necessitates adjustments to comply with the Immigrants and Emigrants Act No. 20 of 1948. This entails a procedural path involving review by the Legal Draftsman and subsequent approval from the Attorney General, followed by endorsement from the Parliament,” he told the Daily FT.
• The clarification comes after the initial announcement by the Tourism Minister on Monday that the policy would come into effect immediately, which caused confusion and inconvenience to tourists who attempted to secure visas.
• As per the Cabinet approval India, Russia, China, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand were named for visa-free policy set to be in effect till 31 March 2024.
• The misunderstanding by the tourism hierarchy has triggered disappointment within the tourism industry, as stakeholders express their concerns about the handling of tourism matters by the Ministry and related statutory bodies.
• Private-sector-driven champions argue that genuine efforts to promote tourism require more than just verbal assurances, insisting on the need for a comprehensive understanding of the nuances of the sector.
• They caution that achieving tourism targets demands a well-informed approach and effective strategy implementation, stressing that merely paying lip service to the sector is insufficient and that setting realistic goals is crucial.
• As Sri Lanka is still in the process of revitalising its tourism sector, stakeholders expressed hope that a more coordinated and strategic approach will yield positive results, ultimately contributing to the country’s economic recovery. Setback for visa-free tourism push | Daily FT

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Visa waiver for five countries to boost tourism

Citizens of China, Russia, India, Thailand, and Indonesia are to benefit from new move as per Cabinet proposal

In a joint effort to reinvigorate its tourism industry, the Government has tabled a ground-breaking proposal for free tourist visas targeting visitors from five countries.

The countries set to benefit from this potential visa waiver program are China, Russia, India, Thailand, and Indonesia.

The initiative, as outlined in a statement from the Tourism Ministry, seeks to draw a significant influx of tourists, positioning Sri Lanka as a leading global travel destination. The proposal, jointly presented at the most recent Cabinet meeting, reflects the collaborative endeavour of Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Tourism Minister Harin Fernando, Public Security Minister Tiran Alles and Foreign Affairs Minister Ali Sabry.

This forward-thinking measure aligns seamlessly with Sri Lanka’s overarching strategy to revive the tourism sector, which has grappled with multiple challenges in recent times, since 2019. By waiving tourist visa fees, the Government anticipates a surge in visitor numbers, projecting positive impacts on economic growth and employment opportunities within the tourism industry. The authorities have set their sights on increasing arrivals to 5 million by 2029 and earning an impressive $ 21.6 billion within seven years. As part of its long-term strategy to welcome 5 million visitors, it hopes to lift the average spending per visitor to $ 4,000, with 2.5 million of them spending over $ 500 per day, indicating a concentration on luring high-end tourists. Visa waiver for five countries to boost tourism | Daily FT

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World's largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, scheduled to set sail

• By Aniket Gupta: Following the COVID pandemic, luxury liners went temporarily taken out of service. Now they are back. With a bang. Or should we say, with a big splash? Cruise bookings have surged, and a Finnish shipyard is now in the final stages of completing what is set to become the largest cruise ship in the world.
• The luxurious ship from Royal Caribbean, named Icon of the Seas, is approaching its final stages of construction at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku on the south-western coast of Finland. The shipbuilding company is fully owned by German shipbuilder Meyer Werft GmbH.
• The Icon of the Seas is expected to be delivered in late 2023, and its inaugural journey is scheduled for January 2024.
• Tim Meyer, CEO of Meyer Turku, says the ship is the largest cruise ship in the world. The massive ship features lively waterparks, over 20 decks, and the capacity to accommodate nearly 10,000 people.

• Many have been attracted by the clever design and careful planning that promise an extraordinary cruise, and have eagerly purchased tickets. Others have referred to the massive construction as a ‘monstrosity’, given what they say will be its significant negative environmental impact.
• The shipping industry was severely impacted by the pandemic, casting doubt on its potential for recovery. According to the Cruise Lines International Association, passenger volume is anticipated to exceed pre-pandemic levels, projecting a total of 31.5 million passengers for the year 2023.
• Weighing a gross tonnage of 250,800, which is five times larger than the ill-fated Titanic, the Icon of the Seas is poised to claim the distinction of being the world's largest cruise ship, surpassing Royal Caribbean’s existing flagship, the Wonder of the Seas.
• Although the trend towards constructing massive ships is not expected to stop, it is likely to slow down. For financial reasons rather than engineering limitations.
• Mega-sized ships are said help lower per-passenger costs. But they require huge investments, and involve advanced technologies, which come at a significant price. Larger vessels also bring challenges like port congestion.
• Furthermore, as cruise companies aim to increase passenger capacity, they simultaneously lower the crew-to-passenger ratio, which can present difficulties in unforeseen circumstances.
• A single large ship yields greater energy efficiency compared to multiple smaller ships. Also, modern vessels have begun using liquefied natural gas (LNG), as the Icon of the Seas is doing.
• But environmentalists remain skeptical. LNG does exhibit lower emissions compared to conventional maritime fuels, yet concerns have been raised by organizations like Transport & Environment (T&E) regarding the possibility of methane leaks.
• Methane is an essential constituent of LNG. It is also a potent greenhouse gas that has the potential to inflict more severe climate repercussions than carbon dioxide.
• The T&E website says that while cruise ships account for a small proportion of the global shipping fleet, ‘they have a disproportionate impact on air quality, habitats and the climate’. Why? It’s because cruise ships require more fuel as a result of the energy demand of their onboard hotels and leisure facilities.
• These ships travel close to the coastline; so huge volumes of fuel are burned in close proximity to coastal populations. The T&E website says, ‘The technology is available to clean up cruise ships, but an industry that provides luxury trips is unwilling to deploy it.’ Source: https://www.domain-b.com/

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Modi pays surprise visit to Sikh gurdwara

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a surprise visit to the Gurudwara Rakabganj in Delhi on Sunday early morning and paid tributes to Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth of ten Sikh gurus, whose death anniversary was observed Saturday. 

Like a common devote he moved in the gurudwara and surprised everyone by his visit which took people there by surprise. 

Sources say that during Modi's visit, special care was taken so that Sunday devotees did not face any problems. The number of devotees in the gurdwara is high on Sundays.

Modi's sudden visit comes amid the snowballing protests organised by the farmers of Punjab in the national capital, which may be seen as a move to placate them. However, the BJP leaders say that Modi's visit is a matter of pure faith and should not be seen from any other perspective.

Guru Teg Bahadur, who lived in the 17th century, sacrificed his life for religious freedom. His death anniversary is observed every year as Martyr's Day in India. Source: https://southasiamonitor.org

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Singapore, Hong Kong to start ‘world first’ air travel bubble

Hong Kong and Singapore will start the long-awaited air travel bubble that will replace quarantine with Covid-19 testing from November 22. 

According to the Bloomberg report, there will be several flights a week on Singapore Airlines Ltd. and Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd. from that date, rising to daily from December 7. A maximum of 200 people will be permitted on each flight and details of the arrangement will be reviewed after one month. 

At a news briefing on Wednesday, Singapore Minister for Transport Ong Ye Kung said that this was the first travel bubble of its type and may be used as a template for other countries, if successful. The travel bubble will help ensure a brighter future for the city-state’s Changi Airport and Singapore Airlines, he said. 

“This policy is not easy to come by,” said Edward Yau Tang-wah, Hong Kong’s commerce and economic development secretary. “Whether the bubble can work and sustain [itself] well will depend on cooperation from all sides, including the participation of residents and their efforts in maintaining social distancing.” 

The coronavirus pandemic has virtually shut down air travel and squeezed tourism-dependent economies. Airlines, among the hardest-hit industries, were forced to ground the majority of flights and seek government help to stay afloat. 

Goh Choon Phong, CEO of Singapore Airlines (SIA), hailed the bubble arrangement, saying: “It paves the way for us to open up in a safe and calibrated way with the necessary testing protocols in place, and provides a promising model for other bilateral arrangements around the world.”

Travellers from both cities must take designated bubble flights and fulfil certain conditions and requirements, including undergoing up to three Covid-19 tests at various stages of the journey.At the start of the scheme, there will be one flight a day into each city carrying 200 passengers, with Cathay Pacific and Singapore operating alternating flights after the launch day. From December 7, the number of flights into each city will be increased to two daily. - South China Morning Post, Bloomberg Source: https://www.daily-bangladesh.com

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Jammu & Kashmir reopen to tourists arriving by air, subject to strict safety guidelines

• Jammu and Kashmir reopened to tourists on Tuesday, allowing only air travellers to enter the territory. The decision to partially reopen the region was taken by the government, which stated that safety guidelines will have to be strictly followed by the tourists.
• “There will be partial opening of the tourism sector for visitors from outside J&K, limited to tourists arriving by air only,” the government said in a statement. “In the view of the COVID related measures, it was imperative to put in place a protocol to be followed by the tourists as well authorities engaged in the hospitality sector.”
• The following are the detailed guidelines:
• 1) All the tourists must have confirmed hotel bookings for the duration of their stay. It is mandatory to pre-book accommodation online in hotels, houseboats or guesthouses. The proof of this will be checked at the time of arrival.
• 2) All tourists must have their return tickets too.
• 3) Upon arrival, all the tourists will have to undergo RT-PCR testing (mandatory). And until the test result shows a negative for COVID-19, tourists will stay put in their hotel rooms and shall not be permitted to move out. Tourists will have to sign a form at the airport. Test results arrive in 24 hours (except in special circumstances).
• 4) Even if a tourist comes with COVID negative report, he/she will still have to take the RT-PCR test on arrival at the airport. However, they will not be required to remain isolated in hotels.
• 5) If a tourist tests positive for the virus, he/she will be immediately sent for treatment to a medical facility as per the protocol.
• 6) Taxis or transport service have to be pre-booked through hotel or travel agencies.
• 7) Tourists above the age of 65 should avoid travelling.
• 8) Only tourists coming by air shall be permitted.
• 9) Aarogya Setu app is a must and all tourists should have it installed on their phones and shall be checked for ‘safe’ status at the time of arrival.Source: http://www.tourismnewslive.com/

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Siberia to get Russia's largest indoor waterpark

'Being an all-season facility gives it an edge over other entertainment options.' Picture here and below: Sibintel 

By The Siberian Times reporter: The Tyumen complex will include mineral spring baths and a hotel, with a target of one million visitors a year. The 10,000 square metre facility will offer more than ten waterslides with the aim of being an all year round facility attracting families from a wide area including Chelyabinsk, Omsk, and Yekaterinburg. Polin Waterparks, a global manufacturer from Turkey, is overseeing the project. 'Being an all-season facility gives it an edge over other entertainment options,' said Selim Doguoglu, head of Polin's Russian office. 'Families can enjoy it year-round. 

The 10,000 square metre facility will offer more than ten waterslides with the aim of being an all year round facility attracting families from a wide area including Chelyabinsk, Omsk, and Yekaterinburg.

'There are not a lot of entertainment offerings that accommodate the wide range of ages that families include, from toddlers to seniors.' The waterpark will include a 'Turbolance Slide' - the first in Russia to do so. This extreme slide involves two-person rafts shooting through a series of steep drops and curves and also propelled uphill on a wide, sweeping, vertical slope, before hurtling over the edge, before gravity safely pulls riders backwards in a reverse ride. On the Windigo, riders enter alongside one another in enclosed tubes that spread out to create geometrical curving patterns high above the ground. 

'There are not a lot of entertainment offerings that accommodate the wide range of ages that families include, from toddlers to seniors.'

Each slide curls around, parallel with the others, with from two to four on each side. Eventually, the tubes converge to create a series of side-by-side, high-speed multi-racer lanes. The Magic Hole, an enclosed ride, pushes guests from side to side as they are launched through wide curves. Rafts of various sizes speed through the circular path before exiting into a splash pool. Polin created the Megacentre Gorizont Aquapark in Rostov-on-Don and the Gorki Indoor Waterpark near Ryazan. Source: http://siberiantimes.com/

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Skylodge Suites Adventure – Peru

Skylodge Suites Adventure is a mountain adventure project located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, near Cusco, Peru, where one can experience rock climbing, spend the night on the cliff edge at 400 meters, then descend

through a zip line. The Via Ferrata is a type of steel ladder along with a cable system where people without experience can climb the cliff face 300 meters, then descend the mountain via rappel systems or through seven interconnected Tyrolean. In the face of the cliff, 400 meters high were installed 3 transparent capsules accommodation in suites, call Skylodge Suites Adventure,where tourists can have an experience to spend a night. The complex is located in the Sacred Valley, near the town of

Ollantaytambo, with fantastic views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River. The 3 aluminum capsules measure 24 feet long and 8 feet high and wide, have 4 beds, a dining area and a bathroom. Also read: Source: Article

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Ready for your next vacation... in a Siberian mine with a temperature of minus 40C?

Such a glittering vacation could include scouring Siberia for your own diamonds, and perhaps visiting the world famous Mirny Mine. Picture: fresher.ru

By The Siberian Times reporter, 04 September 2015: Not for you? But it is a diamond mine... ! Or perhaps you prefer a more cosmic experience? A holiday at the world's largest spaceport, Vostochny Cosmodrome, now under construction in Amur region on the eastern fringes of Siberia. These gems for future bucket lists were floated by Russia's tourism chief Oleg Safonov at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok this week. Such a glittering vacation could include scouring Siberia for your own diamonds, and perhaps visiting the world famous Mirny Mine, an open cast pit, the second largest excavated hole in the world. 

'There will be a lot of people who may be interested to see with their own eyes the process of diamond production.' Picture: Melnik Yevgenyev, Yakutia Government

'We need to consider the creation of industrial tourism,' he said, referring to some of the world's richest diamond mines in the Sakha Republic, also called Yakutia. 'Diamond-mining enterprises may become attractive facilities. There will be a lot of people who may be interested to see with their own eyes the process of diamond production.' Safonov, head of Rostourism, or the Russian Federal Agency for Tourism, also wants the country's new spaceport to be open to visitors from home and abroad.

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Get Set for a Tour of Delhi in an AC Volvo Bus

By Southern Travels :ave you ever taken the Delhi City Tour and explored the architectural brilliance of the capital city? Have you experienced its breathtaking tourist destinations and the warm friendly air that just makes you feel a connection to the city? If your answer is no, then come explore a Delhi City Tour by A.C. Volvo bus. We at Southern Travels organize the tour which lasts for 10 hours and covers all the major attractions and spots that Delhi has in offering. Starting from the largest Minar, spreading to the exemplary Mughal architecture, and then moving to the heart of the city, India Gate, the tour gives us a lot of Delhi that we might not have seen. The Delhi we know has a more metropolitan and cosmopolitan appeal to it. A tour of the city and its famous spots can really make you realize its true worth and make you abreast of its vivid history. The tour by Southern Travels starts at 9 am with visitors first being escorted to the magnificent Qutub Minar, which is a soaring tower of victory made by Qutab-ud-din Aibak in 1193. The monument is surrounded by several historically significant structures like the Iron Pillar of Delhi, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Alai Darwaza and many others. The next stop is India Gate, the monument which was initially built in year 1931 and has names of 90,000 soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the country, engraved on its walls, a sight that can leave you speechless. The Amar Jawan Jyoti, or the flame of the immortal soldier which is a continuously burning flame is the highlight of this spot, it is significant as the flame is guarded 24x7 by soldiers and is reminiscent of the lives lost in the Liberation of Bangladesh. Continuing the journey, the travelers are then made abreast with the Nehru Museum, situated in the greenery of the Teen Murti House, which was earlier the official residence of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India. The décor of the house and its interiors will surely leave you mesmerized. The museum was primarily built to promote Mr. Nehru's ideas. The next stop is the Red Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site accredited in year 2007. The red monument stands tall as a century old fort that still holds as a true shot of the city. It lies along the Yamuna River and was originally the palace of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan amidst his capital, Shahjahanabad. The tour continues with the next stop being the Lotus Temple, constructed by the Baha'is of India. A beautiful structure in the shape of a flower, it attracts tourists from all over India. The temple is open to the people of all religions. Post an experience of the serene and calm environment of the Lotus temple, we move to the next destination i.e. the Indira Gandhi Memorial, which was the former residence of Indira Gandhi. The memorial displays photos, newspaper clippings and personal belongings of Mrs Indira Gandhi. The next spot being Birla Mandir, which is amongst the many spots of visit in the Delhi City Tour and is one of the many famous temples of Delhi. Built by industrialist Sh. J.K Birla in 1939, the temple is dedicated to goddess Laxmi and is located in the prime of Delhi. The last and final destination on the tour plan is Rajghat. This destination is named in memory of the father of the nation, Mohan Karamchand Gandhi and has a peaceful resonance to it. The site is a black marble platform that marks the spot of Mahatma Gandhi's cremation. Through this tour, we as travelers get a taste of all that Delhi has to offer. The amazing sites, brilliant architecture and a rich cultural inclination are some of the highlights of what a traveler can look for in Delhi. Southern Travels provides you with an exciting trip to the capital of India. They organize the Delhi City Tour by A.C. Volvo, at a very affordable cost of Rs. 400/- per person. You have a chance to make the most of this offer. Come take a Delhi tour and experience the joy and warmth of the capital city. Source: articlebase.com

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Steffi Graf appointed brand ambassador of Ayurveda in Kerala

The Kerala tourism department was given sanction to sign a pact with Graf to become Ayurveda brand ambassador as part of the department's 'Visit Kerala Scheme'. Tennis legend Steffi Graf, 46, was appointed as the Ayurveda brand ambassador of Kerala on 24 June. The state cabinet unanimously took the decision, said chief minister Oommen Chandy. The Kerala tourism department was given sanction to sign a pact with Graf, to become the Ayurveda brand ambassador as part of the department’s ‘Visit Kerala Scheme’, according to Chandy. The tourism department held discussions and reached an agreement with the former number one tennis player. Kerala’s Ayurveda, an ancient system of health care, is famous for its holistic effect on the body as well as the mind. It attracts people from all over the country and abroad, every year. Graf, who had bagged 22 Grand slam single titles, retired in 1999. She married former World No. 1 (mens’) tennis player Andre Agassi in October 2001. Graf was ranked World No 1 by Womens’ Tennis Association (WTA) for a staggering 377 weeks, in total. Source: Article, Image: https://commons.wikimedia.org

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Smart Korea,Smart Culture,Smart Tourism

Kwang-shik Choe, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST)

SEOUL, KOREA – K- pop and Korean  drama’s  increased  popularity, along

with Psy’s “Gangnam Style” becoming a worldwide viral hit, has fostered greater interest in Korean culture. As opposed to the catchy and stylish K-pop and Korean dramas seen across the world, ordinary Koreans seem unable to afford cultural activities in this highly competitive society. People here work the longest hours in the OECD member nations, and the majority of them have the usual passive leisure activities – watching TV, taking a nap or taking a walk (36.2%) - rather than participating in active cultural arts (7.2%), sport (9.5%) or travelling (4.7%). Without being exposed to active cultural activities, many teenagers are struggling with mental problems such as school violence and game addiction, and employees frequently relieve their stress through binge drinking. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) is now encouraging a more creative cultural environment for the public to improve their quality of life as well as their professional productivity. “One Person, Two Talents” ‘One Person, Two Talents’ is the recent focus of Kwang-shik Choe, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST), encouraging the public to regularly participate in one sport as well as one cultural activity such as music, art, or musicals. “As creativity is the biggest growth engine and measure of competitiveness in the future of a smart society, it is essential for the public to have diverse cultural experiences. The MCST is planning to foster more public sports and music programs as the five-day
work and school week expand, and to encourage more talent donation programs – contributing individual talents to public welfare. Personally, I started to learn Danso, a Korean short bamboo flute, and it provides me with immense refreshment. Now, I am proud of being able to play ‘Arirang’, a Korean folk song,“ the minister said. ‘One Day, Two Nights’ is another slogan the minister has advocated to foster a more productive and creative leisure environment. “The MCST is promoting domestic tourism for the public to travel to various places throughout the country for one day and two nights, and also to boost regional economies. Korea has many beautiful tourist attractions that are not well known, so the MCST has selected ’99
Must-Visit Tourist Attractions’. The list, compiled by local travel experts after a thorough examination of tourist attractions across Korea, will be useful for both Korean and foreign travelers alike.” Smart Tourism: “With the rapid penetration of smart devices – reaching 30 million - and the advanced digital infrastructure, the MCST is stimulating smarter tourism. Tourists can reserve hotels, purchase train and airline tickets in real time via their smart phones, as well as share travel information and experiences with social

Minister, Kwang-shik Choe, visits Baengnyeong Island for one day and two nights.

 networking services in real time. ‘Visit Korea 2.0’ is the representative application through which visitors can conveniently find tourist attractions, restaurants, accommodation, and shopping information. They can also easily locate destinations with mapping services and way-finding services.
Besides, the ‘Korea Smart Tour Guide’application provides audio services and digital contents for the tourists to better enjoy the stories behind Korea’s major historical heritages, as well as national museums,” he said. For foreign tourists, the language barrier which is the biggest obstacle for travels, can be removed with the help of ‘Genietalk’, the Korean-English interpretation application, developed by Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI). Providing 270,000 Korean
words and 65,000 English words, it boasts over an 80% successful interpretation rate in a real-life situation. It is expected to add six more languages including Japanese, Chinese, and Spanish by 2018. For a tourist to report a complaint, visitors can call 1330, which is offered in four languages, Korean, English, Japanese and Chinese. Smart Cultural 
Exchange: “The MCST also took an initiative in promoting a global cultural exchange with the advancement of smart technology. As seen from the huge ripple effect of Psy’s “Gangnam Style”, SNS has become an effective channel for the fast and easy delivery of content. We have been running
Korea Culture Centers across the world to exchange diverse cultures through Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Flickr. They allow local people to experience the traditions and history of Korea through specialized programs, events, and multiple learning resources. On top of this, Korean cultural arts are promoted and shared in collaboration with Google Art Project, an online
platform through which the public can access high-resolution images of artwork housed in the initiative’s partner museums. Currently, around 5,000 pieces of Korean art are posted on the website.” The advancement of personal smart devices has had an influence on the Korean content industry – games, film, music, and animation – which has steadily grown for the past few years. The amount of content exported increased to USD 4.3 billion in 2011, an increase of 35% from the previous  year. Korean game companies
such as NEXON and NCsoft account for around 60% of the total content exported and ranked 6th in global market share. Keeping pace with the smart trends, they are now focusing on developing games transcending the boundaries of the Internet, mobile, and game consoles. K-pop and Korean
dramas, which used to center around Asian regions, are now expanding into other continents through social media. Psy’s “Gangnam Style”was viewed on YouTube throughout 222 countries. Promoting Korean culture overseas has helped improve the perception of Korean people, as well as the economy. Minister Choe also emphasized the importance of global content exchange. Quality content is created based on cultural diversity and

experiences that serve as momentum to raise the value of the Korean content industry.  In the early 2000s, we used to have an abundance of co-productions of films and dramas with Chinese and Japanese industries, but now it seems a little stagnant. The MCST plans to encourage more global content exchange in the form of joint production and personnel exchanges.
Indeed, personnel exchange of producers and actors have been on the rise recently. It is essential for the government to enable more diverse content to be introduced across the border.Under the vision of ‘Envisioning a greater tomorrow through culture’, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism is now aiming for enjoyment, harmony, and progress through cultural promotion. “The MCST is aiming to re-energize life as well as the creativity of work by fostering cultural activities and increasing global cultural exchange, along with the help of the increasing number of smart devices,” he said. Visit Korea 2.0, Source: Koreaittimes

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The Sundarbans: Unique Ecosystem for Wildlife

   

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ISikkim, Kalpana Palkhiwala: The Sundarbans is the largest single block of tidal halophytic mangrove forest in the world. It is the estuarine phase of the

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Ganges as well as Brahmaputra river systems. It lies at the mouth of the Ganges and is spread across areas of Bangladesh and West Bengal, India,

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forming the seaward fringe of the delta. The typical littoral forests of Sundarbans comprises of a host of trees species adopted to the peculiar estuarine condition of high salinity, lack of soil erosion and daily inundation
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by high tides. The tidal forms and the mangrove vegetation in Sundarbans are responsible for dynamic eco-system vigorous nutrient cycling both terrestrial and aquatic. The whole eco-system is sensitive to change in salinity and the continuous cycle of erosion and deposition is affecting the plant continuously adjusting to the new conditions. The great fight goes on between nature and each individual here for survival, and survival for the

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fittest. The forest covers of 4,000 sq km are on Indian Side. It has been declared as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1997. The Sundarbans are separately listed in the UNESCO world heritage list as the Sundarbans for
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India and the Sundarbans National Park, Bangladesh, which is 6000 sq km area. Sundarbans was designated a Ramsar site on May 21, 1992. “Sundarban” literally means “beautiful jungle” or “beautiful forest” in the Bengali Language. The characteristic tree are the Sundari (Heritiera littoralis), from which the name of the tract has been derived It yields a 
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hard wood, used for building, and for making boats, furniture, etc. Other belief is that it is derived from “Samudraban” or “Chandra-bandhe” which was name of a primitive tribe. Read Full: The Sundarbans - Unique Ecosystem for Wildlife | iSikkim,

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Who let the dogs out, into our wilds?

By Dharmendra Khandal: Recently, I visited five different sanctuaries of Rajasthan where I saw active predators in most of these areas. But they were not natural predators, but feral dogs. Some were chasing chinkaras while others were chasing neelgai. The locals there told me that these dogs injured or killed some wild animal in their area every other day. Sometimes they would manage to rescue the wild animal and chase out the dogs, but the fact is that these canines have become a growing menace in many wildlife areas today. The bigger sanctuaries are comparatively safe because wild animals can escape inside the forest. Also, the leopards and tigers, which are the predators of these canines, restrict the intrusion of these dogs. Not so the smaller wildlife areas where there are no such big cats. The canines here are therefore more fearless and can be seen chasing wild animals even in densely forested areas. A small area of desert that is protected by the local community has 500 chinkaras and regularly some animal or the other is injured by these dogs. I also saw carcasses of domestic animals and butcher waste around the region, that are attracting the dogs to the area. I suggested to the community head that they should not throw the carcasses in the forest areas but they said waste dumping was not in their hands as people stealthily threw the garbage and carcasses at night to avoid been seen. Is there any solution to this problem? Animal lovers, however, don’t see it as a problem, presenting the argument that dogs are also part of ecosystem and these neo-predators are now balancing the ecology of our jungles too. They, therefore, have a right to live too. But the figures speak for themselves — globally, there exist about 500 million stray dogs and in India, 20 to 30,000 people die every year because of rabies. Recently, a news came to light that canine distemper virus can cause trouble to tigers too. The National Tiger Conservation Authority issued an alert letter to all reserve directors and suggested vaccination of stay dogs around the tiger reserves. Rabies and CDV can be controlled through vaccination, but what happens to the dogs who are killing wild animals directly? Possibly, we can control their population through sterilisation but that has to be ethically and legally correct. Many people say that if we want to save our wildlife areas, we have to continuously kill or remove the dogs. They say that even after sterilisation, these dogs may not infect wild animals but will still continue to kill them. They also argue that there is no fund and trained manpower available to sterilise this unbounded number of stray dogs. Dog numbers are increasing with human population and one key reason is bad garbage management. This is also an indicator of the fragmenting web of our ecosystem. We do need to get some important wild areas dog-free, but of course, after following due procedure. (The writer is a conservation biologist at Tiger Watch, Ranthambore) Source: Article

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Now, a diet chart for Amarnath pilgrims

By Dikshika Joshi, Free kitchens set up by voluntary organizations to feed pilgrims undertaking the Amarnath Yatra will now prepare food as per a specific diet chart, suiting the climatic conditions at high altitudes. The Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) that manages the affairs of the Amarnath pilgrimage will be issuing an advisory to this effect, according to a spokesman of the board. The Amarnath shrine is situated at a height of 3,888  metres  above  sea  level  in  south  Kashmir   and   involves  trekking through narrow, slippery and steep mountainous paths. “Jammu and Kashmir governor N.N. Vohra, who is the chairman of SASB, has emphasized the need for preparing a standard diet chart for the ‘Langar’ (community kitchen) meal prepared by voluntary organisations, which takes into account the nutritional requirement of the pilgrims, particularly in view of the high altitude and difficult climatic conditions,” the spokesman said. The Governor also stressed the importance of maintaining hygienic conditions in and around all such kitchens during the entire pilgrimage period, which is usually of two months’ duration during the summer. Last year, more than 600,000 pilgrims visited the shrine. Vohra said the SASB would shortly bring out a comprehensive advisory (Do’s and Don’ts) and publicize it widely for the benefit of prospective pilgrims. Source: News Leaks, Image: flickr.com

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Dubai super buildings from Burj Khalifa

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Dubai: In the Burj Khalifa you have a stunning view of the area. Other building have the format of legostone and look like playing models. Burj Khalifa was opened on 4 January 2010. The tower is designed by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, which also designed the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower) in Chicago and the new One World Trade Center in New York City among numerous other famous high-rises. The building resembles the bundled tube form of the Willis Tower, but is not a bundle tube structure. Its design is reminiscent of Frank Lloyd Wright's vision for The Illinois, a mile high skyscraper designed for Chicago. According to Marshall Strabala, an SOM architect who worked on the building's design team, Burj Khalifa was designed based on the 73 floor Tower Palace Three, an all residential building in Seoul. Burj Khalifa (Arabic: برج خليفة‎ ), known as Burj Dubai prior to its inauguration, is a skyscraper in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and is currently the tallest structure in the world, at 829.84 m (2,723 ft). Construction began on 21 September 2004, with the exterior of the structure completed on 1 October 2009. The building officially opened on 4 January 2010, and is part of the new 2 km2 (490-acre) flagship development called Downtown Dubai at the 'First Interchange' along Sheikh Zayed Road, near Dubai's main business district. The tower's architecture and engineering were performed by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill of Chicago, with Adrian Smith as chief architect, and Bill Baker as chief structural engineer. The primary contractor was Samsung C&T of South Korea. The total cost for the project was about US$1.5 billion; and for the entire "Downtown Dubai" development, US$20 billion.[13] In March 2009, Mohamed Ali Alabbar, chairman of the project's developer, Emaar Properties, said office space pricing at Burj Khalifa reached US$4,000 per sq ft (over US$43,000 per m²) and the Armani Residences, also in Burj Khalifa, sold for US$3,500 per sq ft (over US$37,500 per m²).[14] The project's completion coincided with the global financial crisis of 2007--2010, and with vast overbuilding in the country, led to high vacancies and foreclosures.[15] With Dubai mired in debt from its huge ambitions, the government was forced to seek multibillion dollar bailouts from its oil rich neighbor Abu Dhabi. Subsequently, in a surprise move at its opening ceremony, the tower was renamed Burj Khalifa, said to honour the UAE President Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his crucial support.[16] Due to the slumping demand in Dubai's property market, the rents in the Burj Khalifa plummeted 40% some ten months after its opening. Out of 900 apartments in the tower, around 825 were still empty at that time. [source Wikipedia].

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