Anantara Resorts in Sri Lanka was privileged to be the exclusive host of the British Airways UK media familiarisation tour – a landmark moment for the country’s tourism industry, coming as the airline resumes direct flights between London Gatwick and Colombo after an absence of more than 11 years. The visit welcomed journalists from some of the United Kingdom’s best-known media publications on an immersive journey exploring Sri Lanka’s luxury hospitality, cultural heritage, natural beauty and distinctive travel experiences.
The tour was timed to coincide with the launch of British Airways’ new seasonal service to Colombo, reconnecting the airline’s global network with one of South Asia’s most captivating island destinations. Flying three times a week from London Gatwick throughout the 2026/27 winter season, the service marked an important step towards stronger air connectivity between the United Kingdom and Sri Lanka. The route is operated by Boeing 777 aircraft, with travellers able to choose between World Traveller, World Traveller Plus and Club World cabins, opening up greater access to the island’s diverse tourism offerings.
British Airways’ return represented a significant development for Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, not least because the United Kingdom continues to be one of the country’s most important international source markets. More than 170,000 British visitors were recorded during the first part of 2026, placing the UK as Sri Lanka’s second-largest tourism source market. The restored connectivity is expected to stimulate further tourism growth, draw high-value international travellers and open up new opportunities for the country’s hospitality and tourism industries.
Organised together with British Airways, the media tour hosted journalists representing leading UK publications, joined by two British Airways representatives. Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort and Anantara Kalutara Resort were the host resorts, guiding the group on a curated journey along Sri Lanka’s southern and western coastal regions.
The itinerary opened at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort, a coastal sanctuary set within a coconut plantation overlooking the Indian Ocean. Here, the journalists stayed in the resort’s luxury pool villas and enjoyed a traditional Ayurvedic treatment at Anantara Spa, sundown cocktails followed by the beachfront Seafood Market dining experience at Verala Restaurant, and Italian fine dining at Il Mare. Venturing beyond the resort, the group set out on an early morning safari at Yala National Park with the resort’s expert naturalist, who shared insights into Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity and wildlife along the way.
The delegation continued to Anantara Kalutara Resort, a luxury retreat conveniently close to Colombo and Bandaranaike International Airport, making it an ideal first or final stop on a luxury Sri Lanka journey.
Hosting the British Airways media delegation reflected Anantara Resorts in Sri Lanka’s commitment to authentic destination experiences and heartfelt hospitality. By bringing together wildlife, culture, gastronomy and wellness, the visit highlighted the diversity of Sri Lanka’s tourism offering while helping to build greater destination awareness in the UK market. As British Airways re-establishes its London–Colombo connection, the collaboration underlined the role that international airline and hospitality partnerships play in encouraging travel and supporting Sri Lanka’s continued tourism growth.
