AS Minister for Home Affairs, Peter Dutton, paid respect to lives lost in the Easter bombing attacks in Sri Lanka this week and committed his support to the tourism market, local Australians are also backing operators to keep the vital international tourism arriving in the recently flourishing destination, said Australian-owned Railway Adventures managing director and owner Scott McGregor.
Departing on November 5, all but one of the 23 clients booked are continuing to go on the “Sri Lanka on the Viceroy Special” tour, showing the empathy of Australian travellers towards a country that relies so heavily on tourism after its turbulent past.
Through this rail package, Railway Adventures employs 26 staff on the train for two weeks; there are three operations personnel who work on the tour and two local guides. The economic benefit to these people, their families and communities is significant and they rely heavily on this job for future income.
Like many travel industry leaders, McGregor believes the best way to combat terrorism is to not let them win by showing that their actions are fruitless. As long as the situation has stabilised, as Railway Adventures believes it has in Sri Lanka- then continuing life as normal sends the most powerful message.
He adds, “I have a strong urge to support our friends in their time of need by not turning our back but embracing their wonderful land in these trying times”
Colombo-based ground services operator, JF Tours general manager, Noel Jayasekera said that at a time when the Sri Lankan tourism industry has been dealt a massive blow, operators plead for international support to stand up for them in their moment of need, so they can bounce back better and stronger.
He added,” There is much in Sri Lanka that showcases it as a top destination to see, experience, and enjoy. It’s unfortunate if that gets overshadowed by these isolated events. Tourism is very important for the existence of our company’s little train, and the country’s economy as a whole, as hundreds of thousands directly depend on this industry. Our country’s security situation has been heightened to safeguard the stability of the tourism industry and to create a safe, positive and inviting atmosphere for visitors”.
For further comments from Scott McGregor or details on the ‘Sri Lanka on the Viceroy Special’ tour please call 1300-800-977 or visit www.railwayadventures.com
IMAGE: Scott McGregor with JF Tours staff in Colombo on the Viceroy Special train.
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