The Sri Lankan Embassy in the United States, in collaboration with the International Club of DC, hosted an evening reception on September 30 at its premises in Washington DC, promoting Sri Lanka as a key tourist destination among US nationals during the winter season in the Northern Hemisphere.
More than 80 guests who included members of the International Club of Washington DC along with senior officials representing key US Government institutions, attended the event.
Sri Lankan Ambassador to the US Mahinda Samarasinghe addressing the gathering, highlighted the diverse tourist attractions the country has to offer to travellers ranging from some of the best beaches in the world, to ancient ruins and Buddhist cultural sites dating back 2,500 years, sport and adventure, inviting attendees to visit Sri Lanka and discover her splendour.
Former US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Teresita Shcaffer, in her remarks, briefed the audience on the unique tourism prospects available in the country, recalling her own experience and hailing the positive socio-cultural advancement of the island.
The Embassy took the opportunity to boost tourism in Sri Lanka by running specially selected tourist-oriented videos showcasing pristine beaches, green mountain landscapes and promoting diverse attractions ranging from adventure and wellness to wildlife.
A cultural recital showcased the talents of the students of the ‘Asanga Domask’ and the ‘Serendib’ Dance Troupe. They performed dances in different styles that depicted Sri Lanka’s rich traditional and folk dance heritage.
The talents of the troupe ‘Ceylon Bera’ enthralled the crowd with the rhythms of Sri Lanka accompanied by instrumental music. A Bharatanatyam dance depicting the culture of the northern part of the country performed by Nethmi Weerasinghe added variety and demonstrated the multi-cultural character of the country. The live rendition of Sinhala songs, representing Sri Lanka’s contemporary music, also entertained guests.
Attendees were able to enjoy a sumptuous authentic Sri Lankan buffet flavoured with Ceylon spices especially prepared by a Sri Lankan chef. There were fresh hoppers, kottu roti and other specialties of Sri Lankan cuisine. The tea corner offered flavoured tea in addition to pure Ceylon black tea.
The event concluded with a raffle draw offering winners prizes that were sponsored by the Sri Lankan Airlines GSA in New York and complimentary hotel packages for stays in reputed hotels in Sri Lanka from Theme Resorts & Spas, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and Jetwing Hotels.
In his vote of thanks, the President of the International Club of DC Sanjaya Hettihewa thanked the Ambassador and staff for joining hands with their organization. The International Club of DC offers international cultural experiences including art, music, dance, and theatre as well as the opportunity to sample culinary delicacies from around the world with their diverse membership of over 47,000 professionals representing over 90 countries and partnered with over 80 embassies in Washington DC to present concerts, festivals, galas, and receptions.
by Daily News Sri Lanka
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