Q: The WTM Global Travel Report 2024 projected a 40 percent increase in tourist spending in Sri Lanka in 2025. How should we work towards increasing this spend for tourists?

A: Boosting spending for tourists requires offering unique, high value experiences that go beyond the ordinary. At Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, we focus on personalised services, exceptional culinary offerings, and immersive cultural and nature-based activities to deliver quality and exclusivity.

Strengthening Sri Lanka’s global appeal through improved infrastructure, premium tourism promotion and strategic collaborations – such as partnerships with airlines and tour operators – will encourage higher spending.

Additionally, initiatives such as the Sri Lanka Conference Ambassador Programme (SLCAP) – launched with Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau and Sri Lankan Airlines – aims to position the country as a top destination for international conferences and events.

By driving meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) tourism to premium properties including Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka, we can increase visitor stays and spending across the country.

Radhey Tawar
Chief Commercial Officer

Q: What is your organisation’s positioning in terms of its role in the tourism industry?

A: Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts stands as a global ambassador for Sri Lankan hospitality, committed to bringing the best of Sri Lanka to the world with style and elegance. Our role goes beyond offering exceptional stays – we curate emotional experiences that inspire stories, connecting travellers with the island’s rich natural beauty, culture and heritage.

Through transformative projects such as Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka, we are redefining Colombo as a vibrant hub for leisure, MICE and luxury tourism. As a leader in sustainability, inclusivity and innovation, we aim to elevate guest experiences while contributing to the growth of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry and economy.

Q: Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts recently introduced Cinnamon DISCOVERY – a loyalty programme in partnership with the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA). What is the significance of this partnership?

A: Cinnamon DISCOVERY marks a major milestone as we become the first Sri Lankan hospitality brand to join GHA, the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands with over 30 million members.

This partnership amplifies Sri Lanka’s presence on the global travel map and connects us to a vast network of high value travellers seeking unique, value added experiences. By showcasing our properties to a global audience, Cinnamon DISCOVERY drives inbound tourism and highlights Sri Lanka’s rich culture, heritage and natural beauty.

Additionally, Sri Lankan travellers gain access to over 800 hotels in 100 countries, enriching their global travel opportunities and reinforcing Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts as a leader in the hospitality industry.

Q: How does Cinnamon DISCOVERY allow international tourists to experience Sri Lanka?

A: Cinnamon DISCOVERY offers travellers the opportunity to experience Sri Lanka through a network of iconic properties across diverse locations. Each property provides an immersive, authentic experience – whether beach side relaxation, cultural exploration or ecotourism.

Our ‘destination expert’ philosophy ensures that guests enjoy curated, personalised experiences that reflect the best of Sri Lanka. From culinary journeys to adventure trails, Cinnamon DISCOVERY emphasises meaningful travel, inviting guests to form deeper connections with the island.

In the long term, we aim to convert these travellers into advocates for Sri Lanka, encouraging repeat visits and fostering word-of-mouth promotion that benefits the broader tourism industry.

Q: What is your opinion in the readiness of the market to implement such a global loyalty programme?

A: Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is at a pivotal stage of recovery and growth. The opening of Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka is set to become the region’s preferred MICE and lifestyle destination, emphasising the country’s potential to attract high value tourists. Globally recognised brands are entering the market while local players like us are expanding our portfolios, signalling confidence in Sri Lanka’s prospects.

With increasing demand for personalised travel and loyalty-based rewards, the timing is ideal for introducing Cinnamon DISCOVERY. To maximise its impact however, Sri Lanka must remain competitive by enhancing infrastructure, streamlining policies and emphasising sustainable practices.

 

Q: As tourism numbers grow, Sri Lanka is also set to prioritise the sustainability of its natural and cultural assets. What are your most recently launched initiatives in these areas?

A: At Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, sustainability is at the heart of our operations. Our initiatives are designed to protect Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural assets while enhancing the guest experience.

For example, Cinnamon Nature Trails (the wildlife and nature-based tourism arm of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts) offers eco-friendly wildlife experiences that promote conservation and education. Across our properties, we have implemented sustainable practices such as reducing single-use plastics, conserving water and sourcing locally.

We also actively engage with local communities through programmes celebrating Sri Lankan heritage, crafts and cuisine. By prioritising these efforts, we aim to ensure that tourism growth benefits both the environment and the communities that are integral to the industry’s success.

– Compiled by Tamara Rebeira

Telephone 2161161  |  Email info@cinnamonhotels.com  |  Website www.cinnamonhotels.com