ANANTARA RESORTS IN SRI LANKA HOSTS BRITISH AIRWAYS’ INAUGURAL UK MEDIA FAMILIARISATION TOUR, MARKING A NEW CHAPTER IN SRI LANKA TOURISM
Colombo, Sri Lanka – 02 November 2026 – Anantara Resorts in Sri Lanka had the privilege of exclusively hosting the British Airways UK media familiarisation tour, marking a significant milestone for the country’s tourism industry following the airline’s resumption of direct flights between London Gatwick and Colombo after an absence of more than 11 years. Held from 24 to 27 October 2026, the visit brought together journalists from some of the United Kingdom’s most recognised media publications for an immersive journey through Sri Lanka’s luxury hospitality, cultural heritage, natural beauty and distinctive travel experiences.
The initiative coincided with the launch of British Airways’ new seasonal service to Colombo on 23 October 2026, reconnecting the airline’s global network with one of South Asia’s most captivating island destinations. Operating three times weekly from London Gatwick during the 2026/27 winter season, the service marked an important step in strengthening air connectivity between the United Kingdom and Sri Lanka. Operated by Boeing 777 aircraft, the route offers travellers a choice of World Traveller, World Traveller Plus and Club World cabins, providing greater accessibility to the island’s diverse tourism offerings.
The return of British Airways represented a significant development for Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, particularly as the United Kingdom remains one of the country’s most important international source markets. With more than 170,000 British visitors recorded during the first part of 2026, the UK ranked as Sri Lanka’s second-largest tourism source market. The renewed connectivity is expected to encourage further tourism growth, attract high-value international travellers and create new opportunities for the country’s hospitality and tourism industries.
Organised in collaboration with British Airways, the media tour welcomed four journalists representing leading UK publications, accompanied by two British Airways representatives. Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort and Anantara Kalutara Resort served as the resort hosts, offering a curated journey through Sri Lanka’s southern and western coastal regions.
The journey began at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort, a coastal sanctuary nestled within a coconut plantation overlooking the Indian Ocean. During their stay, the journalists experienced the resort’s luxury pool villa accommodation, a traditional Marma Abhyanga Ayurvedic treatment at Anantara Spa, sundown cocktails followed by a beachfront Seafood Market dining experience at Verala Restaurant, and Italian fine dining at Il Mare. Beyond the resort, the journalists embarked on an early morning safari at Yala National Park, accompanied by the resort’s expert naturalist, who shared insights into Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity and wildlife throughout the journey.
The delegation then travelled to Anantara Kalutara Resort, a luxury retreat within easy reach of Colombo and Bandaranaike International Airport, the resort offers an ideal first or final stop on a luxury Sri Lanka journey. Situated between the Indian Ocean and the Kalu Ganga lagoon, this gateway is inspired by the architectural legacy of Geoffrey Bawa. Here, the journalists enjoyed the comfort of the resort’s luxury pool villa residences while discovering a blend of Sri Lankan culture, culinary traditions and wellness. A highlight of their stay was the signature Spice Spoons cooking experience, which began with a guided visit to a local market to explore fresh produce, aromatic spices and traditional ingredients, followed by a hands-on cooking session offering an authentic introduction to Sri Lanka’s rich culinary heritage. The experience was complemented by rejuvenating wellness treatments, a culinary journey through Asia at Spice Traders and Italian dining at Acquolina Restaurant.
For Anantara Resorts in Sri Lanka, the opportunity to host the British Airways media delegation reflected the brand’s commitment to authentic destination experiences and heartfelt hospitality. Bringing together wildlife, culture, gastronomy and wellness, the visit showcased the diversity of Sri Lanka’s tourism offering while supporting greater destination awareness in the UK market. With British Airways re-establishing its London–Colombo connection, the collaboration highlighted the role of international airline and hospitality partnerships in encouraging travel and supporting Sri Lanka’s continued tourism growth.
