Continuing with its destination promotion despite the Covid 19 pandemic across the globe, the Sri Lankan Embassy in Austria, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), held another destination promotional event titled ‘’ Flavours of Sri Lanka’’, depicting Sri Lanka’s traditional cuisine at the Helden Restaurant, Welt Museum in Vienna on 30th August 2020. The effort was highly successful as a large number of participants turned up for the event, so as to experience a bit of the sumptuous Sri Lankan cuisine. The visitors were ensured of their safety and hygiene adapting to the new circumstances, and were able to gain a most memorable experience during this difficult time. The event was arranged in order to give a glimpse of the Sri Lankan hospitality and delicious cuisine.  

Guests and invitees who attended the ceremony included of the Federal Ministry of European and International Affairs of the Republic of Austria and other government Ministries /Agencies, Diplomatic Corps, officials from the Diplomatic Institutions and Think tanks, Entrepreneurs, Travel Agents, bloggers, tourism magazine, writers and the Print and Electronic Media. The Embassy ensured wide publicity for the event through both Austrian Print & Electronic Media. The hospitality and the heavenly Sri Lankan cuisine was highly praised among each participant; thus Sri Lanka was able to keep its flag flying high throughout the event. 

The Sri Lanka Restaurants based in Vienna exhibited their culinary skills presenting delicious and its authentic cuisine to the invitees. The vibrant display of food created a very attractive atmosphere, ready to tantalize the taste buds of those who participated at the event.  Apart from the culinary surprises, the organisers also had some Sri Lankan gift items to giveaway – which established a pleasant memory for all. So Sri Lanka brochures were distributed among the visitors which allowed them to gain more knowledge   about the island destination. The picturesque location where the event was held gave a refreshing and a breezy feeling – which enabled the visitors to have a sumptuous meal at a peaceful venue. This provided a great opportunity for the Austrian Print & Electronic media, who eagerly reported the amazing Sri Lankan culture, heritage and authentic cuisine, all combined in one event. 

Throughout this festival, the invitees were able to get a glimpse of the destination and flavour Sri Lanka cuisine in the heart of the city Vienna, and plan about their next travel destination in the near future. The venue was arranged to suit every possible need of the visitors and the invitees were also able to taste a cup of pure Ceylon tea, where they refreshed themselves and enjoyed to their hearts content, whilst the delicious array of food included the ever famous Kottu , Hoppers ,Rice & Curry.  A wide range of Sri Lankan specialities and sweetmeats enabled the visitors to keenly explore and taste every food item they came across. It was refreshing and a new experience for the Austrian visitors, who indeed had an interesting experience. 

Through this culinary celebration, Sri Lanka was able to position itself as an important tourist destination, depicting an amazing culture, heritage, picturesque locations, and the warm hospitality of its people, which was showcased throughout this event. The iconic travel destination is yet ready to welcome tourists to enjoy it’s cultural and natural splendour, showing its enthusiasm to welcome interested travellers once more.