Tourism

New Zealand Hikes Tourist Tax Sparking Concerns Over Visitor Deterrence

New Zealand has announced a sharp increase in its International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy, which will rise from NZ$35 (£16.52) to NZ$100 (£47.20) starting from 1 October. The government says the increase is aimed at boosting economic growth and ensuring visitors contribute to the upkeep of public services and high-quality experiences. However, Tourism Industry

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Tourism

Sri Lanka Welcomes 1.2 Million Tourists in 2024

Sri Lanka has achieved a significant milestone in its tourism sector, reaching a target of 1.2 million tourists by August 2024. According to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), the country welcomed 1,198,059 tourists during the first seven months of the year. July saw a record-breaking 187,810 arrivals, marking the highest monthly total in

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Business

Melco Resorts Invests $1 Billion in Colombo’s ‘City of Dreams’ Project

Melco Resorts and Entertainment is making a significant investment in Colombo with its new $1 billion project, ‘City of Dreams Sri Lanka,’ aiming to tap into the burgeoning Indian tourism market. According to brokerage firm Morgan Stanley, the integrated resort, featuring a casino, could generate around 50% of its EBITDA from gaming operations. The venture,

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Tourism

Sri Lanka Tourism Set for Record Year with 1.16 Million Visitors

Officials from Sri Lanka’s tourism industry recently confirmed that the sector is on a strong upward trajectory, with more than 1.16 million visitors arriving in the country so far this year. If current trends continue, Sri Lanka could surpass its benchmark year of 2018. Tourism Ministry Secretary Somarathne Vidanapathirana expressed optimism about the sector’s recovery,

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