Promoting Sri Lanka as a winter destination, the national carrier, SriLankan Airlines, has issued a range of packages valid until March 30, 2006.

For a price of Dh1,980 visitors will obtain a four day/ three night package based in the hill resort of Kandy and all rates are inclusive of return Economy flights from Dubai to Colombo, twin sharing accommodation in a four- or five-star hotel, air conditioned transport and the services of an English-speaking chauffeur/ guide plus entrance to the elephant orphanage, botanical gardens, Kandy temple and a cultural show.
Other package options include a five-day tour, five days in the hill country, a week’s itinerary around the principal sights of Sri Lanka, a cultural tour and a 14-day complete circumnavigation of the island’s attractions including golf and lake visits in Nuwara Eliya, the ancient capital of Kandy, the rock temples of Sigiriya and the shopping in Colombo.
Till March 31, 2006, SriLankan Airlines is also offering a four-day break in the Maldives staying at the Rannalhi Resort and the package include return Economy flights from Dubai via Colombo plus speedboat transfers and bed and breakfast accommodation. The price starts at Dh3,270 single and Dh 2,230 double with additional nights at Dh420 and Dh440 per person and an Dh420 daily supplement for an upgrade to a water bungalow.
According to chief executive Peter Hill, the focus in the wake of Tsunami is to introduce visitors from the Middle East to some of the scenic and cultural attractions that SriLanka has to offer. All package prices are valid until end of March next year, but subject to Dh420 surcharge for travel between December 1-24, 2005 and January 4-15, 2006.

By Jonna Simon