The 30th anniversary of the International Forum and Exhibition OTDYKH Leisure 2024 concluded on September 19 at the Expocentre Fairgrounds in Moscow. This year’s event was a major success, attracting over 9,000 industry professionals, including representatives from Russian regions, foreign delegations, leading tour operators, travel agencies, accommodation providers, online booking platforms, and other key stakeholders in the global tourism industry.
OTDYKH Leisure has remained Russia’s premier business event of its scale for three decades, timed strategically before the autumn-winter tourist season. It provides a vital platform for industry professionals to stimulate year-round travel demand, both domestically and internationally. This year’s event, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine, underscored the importance of fostering bilateral relations and business connections, especially in the tourism sector.
Recognizing the importance of the Russian inbound tourism market, Sri Lanka Tourism participated in the Leisure (OTDYKH) Travel Fair 2024. This initiative highlights Sri Lanka’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a strong presence in Russia, ensuring that the island nation remains a top travel destination for Russian tourists. By engaging directly with the Russian travel industry, Sri Lanka aims to enhance destination awareness and expand its network of connections with key stakeholders.
Held from September 17 to 19, 2024, the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) organized Sri Lanka’s participation in a 90-square-meter pavilion, showcasing the country’s diverse travel experiences. The Sri Lanka delegation included 15 participants from local travel companies and hotels, offering Russian travelers a wide array of holiday options, from luxury getaways to cultural and nature-based adventures.
The Sri Lanka stand was officially opened on September 17 by the Ambassador of Sri Lanka in Moscow, H.E. Mr. Pakeer Amza, along with representatives from the Sri Lankan Embassy in Moscow: Ms. Ruvini Munidasa, Mr. Chamila Jayarathna, and Ms. Sasika Jayaweera from the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB). The opening marked a significant moment in Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to inspire Russian tourists to explore the island nation’s unique offerings, from pristine beaches to rich cultural heritage.
Author - Usemee.lk