A Resounding Success for Sri Lanka Tourism
Sri Lanka’s participation at Ferien Messe Wien 2025 was a resounding success, drawing thousands of visitors and reinforcing its appeal among Austrian travelers. The pavilion’s vibrant cultural showcases, authentic cuisine, and engaging activities left a lasting impression, generating widespread media coverage across print, electronic, and social platforms.
The Sri Lankan delegation, which included 14 key industry stakeholders, played a crucial role in promoting the country’s diverse attractions. H.E. Majintha Jayesinghe, Sri Lankan Ambassador to Austria, reflected on the significance of the event, saying, “Sri Lanka is eager to welcome more Austrian visitors, and events like Ferien Messe Wien help us strengthen these ties and promote our island’s incredible tourism offerings.”
Ms. Susanne Kraus-Winkler, State Secretary for Tourism of Austria, praised Sri Lanka’s presence, commenting, “Sri Lanka has showcased not just a destination, but an experience—its rich heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality make it an irresistible choice for Austrian travelers.”
Renowned author Ms. Renate Reisch, who has written extensively about Sri Lanka, shared her admiration for the island, stating, “Every visit to Sri Lanka is a journey of discovery. The island’s cultural richness, warm people, and scenic beauty make it a destination close to my heart.”
Mr. David Rodriguez Coronado, the winner of last year’s raffle draw, captivated the audience with his personal travel experience in Sri Lanka. He shared, “Winning a trip to Sri Lanka was life-changing. From its pristine beaches to its vibrant culture, I was mesmerized at every turn. I can’t wait to go back!”
Influencers Goofy.tv (Colja & Gabriel), who documented their 14-day media familiarization tour through Sri Lanka, expressed their excitement about the island’s offerings, saying, “Sri Lanka is a hidden gem! From incredible food to breathtaking nature, we were blown away. We’re excited to share our experiences with our audience and inspire more young travelers to visit.”
Ms. Oshini Gunawardena, who presented the award-winning wildlife documentary The Great Elephant Gathering of Asia, spoke about the importance of showcasing Sri Lanka’s biodiversity. She said, “Sri Lanka’s biodiversity is one of its greatest treasures. Showcasing this documentary at the event helped Austrian travelers see the magic of our wildlife firsthand.”
Finally, Chef Ruwan Fernando, Executive Chef and expert in Sri Lankan cuisine, shared his joy in showcasing the island’s flavors. He remarked, “Food is a powerful way to connect people to a culture. Seeing visitors enjoy authentic Sri Lankan flavors was truly rewarding.”
Sri Lanka’s participation at Ferien Messe Wien 2025 has not only strengthened diplomatic and industry ties but also fostered future collaborations. With Austria emerging as a key market and growing tourist interest, Sri Lanka Tourism is on track for a record-breaking 2025, poised to capture the attention of Austrian travelers and solidify its reputation as a must-visit global destination.
