The New York Times recently named Sri Lanka as the number one destination for travelers in 2010 on its list of 31 Places to Go in 2010. This honor could not have come at a better time for the country as it looks to rebuild its tourism industry since the quashing of the Liberation Tamil Tigers of Eelam, one of the world's terrorist organizations.
Why We Like Sri Lanka
The country, a small island in the Indian Ocean, is a fusion of the old world and the new. It combines ancient heritage sites and local cultural festivals with luxury beach hotels and spas. Travelers to Sri Lanka can have the best of both worlds - roaming the local markets in the morning, feeding baby elephants in the afternoon, and a five-star spa treatment and gourmet meal at night.
Voluntourism is also popular in Sri Lanka and, considering the devastation of the 2004 tsunami, this is a good spot to recommend to clients looking to give back to a community. Travelers can work to help local families, preserve the environment, protect endangered wildlife and cultural heritage.
Currently travelers can participate in the Sarvodaya Community Tourism Initiative. By working assisting with this project visitors can help develop sustainable income for local communities.
Visit www.srilanka.travel.