Today Sri Lanka welcomes its visitors to experience the nation’s glittering tapestry of culture, and the rich abundance of nature, so handsomely bestowed, and to give credence to the old adage – that good things come in small packages. Sri Lanka’s archaeological treasures bear testimony to a civilization that spanned the golden age of Periclean Greece, the Roman Empire, Mayan citadels, and Napoleonic grandeur. The resultant legacy is a culture embellished by the more recent influences of Western colonizers, and Eastern traders, producing a mercurial mix of races and religions, arts and crafts, festivals and costumes that enchant the visitor with their exquisite variety. Savour the kaleidoscopic experience of the island’s miles of uncluttered white, sandy beaches, where sun-seekers and fun-lovers are caressed by gentle, ocean breezes. Rising amid spectacular waterfalls to mist-shrouded peaks is the central hill region home to the world famous “Pure Ceylon Tea” gardens, and the legendary gem mines that produce sapphires, rubies, and a dozen other gems.

As you travel from the lowland plains to the highlands in air-conditioned coach or car, a panorama of people at work or play unfolds. The roadside is vibrant with life, and the lush landscape presents a palette of ever changing colours. Pause, if you would, at wayside markets, handicraft shops or batik factories. Or stop to watch craftsmen at work, gems being mined, tea leaves being plucked, elephants bathing in rivers or fishermen on stilts. Colombo, the main point of entry, is a bustling metropolis of big businesses and small bazaars; while the hill capitol of Kandy – the last royal citadel – is the cultural center and home to the legendary Temple of the Sacred Toot Relic, and the spectacular festivals of the perahera. Galle, the ancient port of Tarshish, is a town within a medieval fortress; while Nuwara Eliya, also called “little England” lies in the salubrious up-country, nestles amidst picturesque tea gardens and dazzling waterfalls. In the “Rajarata”, or king’s domain, are the ancient cities of Anuradhpura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla and Sigiriya – all bearing testimony to a priceless heritage spanning 2,500 years. The western coastline from Negombo, north of the airport, to Tangalle, in the south shelters a string of magnificent beach resorts and quaint fishing villages. At the island’s national parks, wild elephant, leopard, bear roam free.

Cities and resorts cater to visitors, with hotels ranging from the luxury five-star class, international chain properties, to the much more moderate-budget hostelries. Most hotels offer a culinary extravaganza to pamper guests with a variety of cuisine from the East and the West, as well as local dishes that reflect the elastic tastes of seafarers and traders that came ashore over the centuries.

The individual businessperson, and the group of conventioneers will both find opportunities to invest or trade under generous incentives offered by a government committed to promotion of Free Trade. Sri Lanka’s high-literate population, fluent in English and proficient in technology, is one of the most competent labour markers in the world. The Sinhala language has no word for “goodbye”. Thus, when the time comes to leave these shores, we will not bid farewell, but invite our guests to return – again and again!

Walk along the happening streets of Colombo; Relive the old world charm of Kandy; Enjoy the cool climes of ‘little England’ (Nuwara Eliya) and get into the wild side of things at the Yala National Park.

Our proud heritage is engraved in the square stone pillars of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. And, the sublime peace that echoes around the Sri Maha Bodhi fills the soul of the weary traveler, enfolding him in utter and pure joy.