Russia has become an important provider of tourists to many 'traditional' vacation destinations around the world so this is a welcome development which will aid achievement of Sri Lanka's ambitious growth targets of tourist arrivals.
Increasingly, I believe that the impetus is on entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka to responsibly develop hotels and tourist attractions. This may be a challenge. I used the term 'responsibly' as I strongly hope that Sri Lanka does not fall into the trap of rapidly building large concrete blocks which may initially and superficially appear to be '5 star resorts' but in a relatively short period of time, will deteriorate and blot the landscape. There is a tremendous opportunity to expand Sri Lanka's tourism industry in a way that few countries have achieved. This is not just about building 5 star resorts, but rather it is building hotels and resorts in a way that is culturally and environmentally sympathetic. This can be done for 3 star or 5 star qualities.
I take this view not just from a 'friends of the earth' perspective, but also from a commercial perspective.
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