The document discusses sustainable tourism options for Sri Lanka and proposes ways to ensure social and economic benefits. It notes trends like Asia becoming a major tourism hub and travelers seeking authentic experiences. It advocates developing niche tourism that respects communities and environment through low-impact accommodations and activities. Tourism can benefit communities through jobs and conservation if managed well with strict protection of natural and cultural assets.
3. Sustainable Tourism Options in Development for Sri Lanka: thoughts and proposals for ensuring social profitability and higher yields Renton de Alwis at the IEPSL Annual Convention August 2011
12. “ Tourism today is a basic human right. If one has the means and time, one can opt to travel. Tourism is about peoples’ dreams. People dream of the places they want to visit and the events that may unfold for them. Our work therefore is not merely about selling airline seats, hotel rooms. excursions or tour coach seats. It is about fulfilling peoples’ beautiful dreams. That makes us, the people who work in tourism, somewhat different types of service providers … We become dream sellers.” RdA
69. 3. The nature of the tourism products & service opportunities we have ? 1. The nature of the lifestyle needs of our potential customers ? Do we know enough about ... 2. The type of tourism Sri Lanka must have ?
70. “ Please don’t call tourism names ” Late Robbie Collins in the early 90’s
90. “ If you can not avoid doing damage at a destination by having large numbers of tourists, do not spread them all over that destination. Have them all within a single area and call it a resort” Kenneth Chamberlain – Former CEO of PATA
