Feb 16 2016.
views 1010The Miss Tourism Sri Lanka International Pageant
Today on Buzz with Danu, I got to spend time with 20 stunning ladies, from 20 countries who are experiencing Sri Lanka these days and will speak so much about this land of wonders when they go back. The Miss Tourism Sri Lanka International pageant is a unique concept especially designed to promote Sri Lanka around the world as a top tier tourist destination. The event is the first of its kind to be held in Sri Lanka, and its vision is that it will become an annual celebration of Sri Lanka, bringing together young ambassadors from around the world to experience the beauty and culture of our island and take back that experience with them to share with their own countries, taking Sri Lanka to the world.
Today I speak to the ladies about their thoughts on sunkissed Sri Lanka and what would it mean for them to win the pageant. The show will be held at the Hilton Colombo on February 21 and limited tickets are still available.
Ms. Australia
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
So far, it has been a trip I will always remember! The views are amazing from the local shops and towns to the fields of tea leaves and the scenic drives along beautiful windy mountain roads. All the hotels that I’ve been to have been so welcoming and the staff all friendly and happy.The hotels have been amazing and again with beautiful views overlooking things like the city, the tea leaves fields and the beach. The weather is always perfect! Being in this beautiful weather and surrounding gives me a new energy and hunger to explore! The food is excellent! There is something for everyone here to enjoy!
What would it mean to you to win the pageant?
I love to travel and explore and what an amazing opportunity it would be to have that chance to travel while promoting this pageant and Sri Lanka to the world! I see this pageant going very far and bringing even more sponsors, media and contestants in the upcoming years. I hope to be a part of that by winning the 2016 title. It would mean so much to me to see the pageant grow by next year and tourism and exposure to the rest of the world as a result! Sri Lanka is a very beautiful place and the entire world should experience it either by travel themselves or representatives promoting it through this pageant from all the corners of the world. It would mean a great honour for me to be a stone on the mountain that is to come. It would be such a privilege to bring the crown back to Australia and show my homeland why they should make Sri Lanka their next holiday destination.
Ms. Belgium
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
My thoughts on Sri Lanka are nothing than what amazing and fantastic country in every facet possible. The landscapes, culture, people are such a blessing to experience. So nice and friendly, very respectful. This country is definitely one which I would love to spend my life and promote the fullest. The food is delicious, the small villages and habits are such a never to forget experience. I’ve lost my heart for this country for sure; fell in love from the moment I’ve set foot in Sri Lanka. Really hope to come back here and stay for long time. Surely, I will promote and tell everyone about Sri Lanka.
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
My goodness! Winning is everyone’s dream. For Belgium, it would mean that this is the very first time in history that we take an international title back home and Belgian media will bomb the winning. It will be a massive media exposure for us. Belgians are having lots pageants; there is not one single village which is not having their own Miss; we even have Miss Fruit. For myself, it would be a dream come true too but I would use the winning title to become a real international ambassador and use the stage to promote Sri Lanka and Belgium but also to speak about charity and young women’s empowerment. As I have Turkish roots, they will certainly follow me in my journey as an international Miss.
Ms. China
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is a wonderful place where you can find beautiful scenery and unique tea gardens, streets and buildings. I like travelling very much and I love this special country. People have always welcome you with their warm smile. They are simple and happy. It feel good to be here. The food here not only looks good but tastes awesome. And the traditional costumes I saw last night were special and elegant. I like the very much. All in all, I love Sri Lanka and I wish I could live in this beautiful and special country.
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
If I win the pageant, I will fulfill my responsibility as a tourism promotion ambassador of Sri Lanka in China. I will introduce the culture, scenery and food here to China and let more people know that there is a beautiful country called Sri Lanka where you can find splendid black tea, warm smile, gorgeous view and special food, costumes and buildings. Also, I would like to express my gratitude to all the people here who liked and supported me. I will I would become the bridge of friendship between Sri Lanka and China’s 1.4 billion people. I will make more people know about Sri Lanka and bring more tourists to this beautiful country.
Ms. Denmark
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is a beautiful country with nice people everywhere. The nature is fantastic, here are monkeys and very beautiful waterfalls which I have never seen before in real life. One of the best experience of Sri Lanka is the people of Sri Lanka; they are warm and friendly.
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
I really like to win this competition because, if I win, I would like to come back to Sri Lanka with my boyfriend and show him how wonderful Sri Lanka is.
Ms. India
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
“Sri Lanka”, undoubtedly, is the most beautiful and wonderful place I’d ever seen along with the natural beauty that it has been blessed with. The thing I like most about the country is the loving, kind and genuine nature of the people. The bond they share, the love and respect they give me during my stay in Sri Lanka is the loveliest part of the nation. It is the place of home-like feeling to me. And, I really believe that the scenic beauty, along with the humble and warm people make Sri Lanka the true pearl of the Indian Ocean.
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
Winning the pageant for me is not just only a stepping stone towards success but also a golden opportunity and blessing that I would get to represent my country and I owe it to my nature. I believe that a strong community is the building block of a strong country and there is no other way to build the nation but to start from among ourselves. Winning this pageant would give me the opportunity to be a role model for building and strengthening my nation.
Ms. Italy
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is such a beautiful place. It’s rich of flora, of fauna, of colours and of very kind people. The first thing that surprised me at my arrival was the vegetation of which we are continuously surrounded. But, first of all, I noticed that even if most of the people are humble and simple; they are rich in their heart. They are always ready to spread happiness and love. As one day, Mahatma Ghandi said: Be the change you wish to see in the world.” I think that Sri Lankan people should be taken as example for other countries, specially the most developed ones which have lost the special atmosphere that I found here in Sri Lanka.
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
Winning this pageant would be a great personal accomplishment because I think I’m a good candidate and be the winner would mean that also the people of the organisation see me in the same way. It’s not just “beauty” , because we are all so beautiful, we are like books; we have our covers but what is really important, specially in this pageant, is what we have inside our heart and mind. I would be thankful and proud to have the opportunity to raise people aware all around the world about this island, its beauties, its people, that unfortunately have not the right visibility. I would like to share with everyone this amazing experience that everyone should have the opportunity to live.
Ms. Japan
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka has friendly people and natural richness. I am impressed by the beautiful mountains and the sea! Also they are always happy to welcome me with a smile. The most impressive was the Kandyan dance. I want to show a wonderful Sri Lanka to people in Japan.
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
I would like to become a bridge between Sri Lanka and Japan. Also, I would like to introduce Sri Lanka’s culture with the people in Japan. Lastly, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to those who made this event possible and for giving me the wonderful opportunity. I hope to show my gratitude by making my best effort in connecting the people and culture between Sri Lanka and Japan.
Ms. Lithuania
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
In the past one week, we have seen a lot of things, but, first thing I would like to mention, your country’s people, I can’t believe how they have been so nice to us. I can feel how warm, polite, organized, friendly they are. There are so many words to describe that. Second thing I would like to say, thank you to all organisation of Miss Tourism Sri Lanka International that they took me to see the children. That was such a good experience to see them; to see how school looks like; seeing them brought me such good feeling and emotions. Third thing, about the hotels and staff. I’m feeling like I'm in paradise. When I’m just thinking about the food and how tasty is it, I'm always feeling hungry, because I can’t stop thinking how delicious it is. Also, I loved seeing the temple. I felt so relaxed; I also prayed. It was my first time being in a Buddhist temple; very good experience. I love this island and I hope to have a chance to come back many times.
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
It would mean a lot to me because it will give me a chance to come back to Sri Lanka (like I mention before, I love this country). I would be so happy if we could work together; I mean, we could cooperate our countries together in many ways; we can work on bringing tourists here (I finished my Bachelor’s Degree in ‘Tourism Management’). I would like to help your country children by bringing books and other important things they need (to do some kind of charity). Also, it would be a great idea to do business here or take some ideas or things from here and bring it in to my country. So, by winning this pageant, it will give me a lot of opportunities.
Ms. Luxembourg
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
I could write a book with all the impressions I got until now. Sri Lanka is a country with a big cultural history. All the nationals dance, songs and traditions are amazing and so much inspiration. I never had this incredible kind of hospitality like here. For me, it’s really touching.
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
For me, it would mean a lot. A dream come true. It would be an honour to represent Ms Tourism Sri Lanka International. I could share that with family, friends and other people and learn a lot more about this beautiful country. For me, winning a beauty pageant is like a big thing because you have so many people that look at you. It’s amazing to have a chance like this to show the world what it is about the pageant, the emotions, the people and a lot more. The best thing to win this beauty pageant, in fact, is that I can share it with so many people.
Ms. Malaysia
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
Standing tall as the wonder of Asia, Sri Lanka has captivated my soul with its inspiring heritage sites from the ancient stories, its untouched land with such vibrant culture and, not to forget, the people of Sri Lanka symbolizes “A true hospitality”. My visit to Nuwara Eliya and Kandy will be memorable within me. Sri Lanka has its own vibes and, to me, it’s a journey of an incredible civilization.
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
With the motive bringing this land of serendipity Sri Lanka internationally, winning this pageant will allow me to share my journey of diversity in Sri Lanka not just within my country but throughout the world. My passion for travelling and with the title of Ms Tourism Sri Lanka International 2016, I will spread the story of this Wonder of Asia within the people throughout my reign. Winning the pageant will be more to an educational victory to me. The originality of this country is its trademark. Through the title, Malaysia and Sri Lanka will bond in a much stronger state and the tourism sector of both countries will develop and lead to an increase in the economy of sector. It’s a victory not just for Malaysia but for Sri Lanka too.
Ms. Netherlands
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
The first time I heard I was going to Sri Lanka, I was super excited but did not know what to expect. I think Sri Lanka has the most friendly people and there's not a thing I don’t like. From the tea fields to the schools, we really got to visit the most amazing things but I am sure there is so much more to see! That’s why I don’t even want to leave. This feels like a second home to me. I did not know a place as wonderful and amazing existed and also where everyone is as wonderful as they are. This is really a perfect place for me. Every single thing about Sri Lanka makes me so happy. I don’t think I have ever been this happy in my life. Thanks, Sri Lanka.
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
Winning this pageant would mean more than the world to me. Like I said in the previous question, this feels like a second home to me and I would be so honoured and blessed to help promote Sri Lanka to the world. I already told my friends and family, this place is a must visit. I had a few moments, I just looked at the sky, took a deep breath and got tears in my eyes from happiness. I have never felt so much joy in my life. I would not only love to win for myself but also for this beautiful country. I really see so much potential in this country and, I think, if the world would see and experience the same things as me, they would love and enjoy it just as much as me. Sri Lanka is underrated and I think people would come all at once when they know more about this paradise and its people. Because I feel so happy and blessed to be here, winning this title would be the crown on the best experience of my life and really really the happiest moment of my life.
Ms. Philippines
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka, like the Philippines, is enmeshed from West to the Eastern phases and edges of the world. It stratified the enchanted mixture of ethics, history and culture of its place and people. Upon seeing Sri Lanka personally, I found out that it’s true to say that it is filled with romantic landscapes, governed by rising mountains, lush forests, ocean like tanks and gushing waterfalls, that it was considered the lost paradise by many global trotters who fell upon the country. Its beauty is beyond concept and definition for me. I had an amazing cultural experience. The people are so kind and cool and the uniqueness of this place can be paralleled to perfection. Sri Lanka does only entail an epic history but as well as ameliorating the exotic beauty of the country.
What does it mean to you to win this pageant?
To win in this pageant means 3 things: first, the corresponding responsibilities that I am really to face and converge which are worth widening my social horizon and understanding of people. Second, to be a role model that possesses good values and virtues that others can emulate. Lastly, to be an inspiration to others that a dream can turn into reality if you will work hard for it. To me, it’s also a very significant opportunity to tell the world what Sri Lanka has to offer. It is simply a paradise and it needs someone who loves it and its resources. Furthermore, it needs someone who understands its core values and sanctity.
Ms. Poland
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
To be honest, I didn’t expect Sri Lanka to be such an amazing place. Now, I’m sure it’s paradise. Actually, it’s the most beautiful place I’ve ever seen. Sri Lanka has awesome nature and views. But the biggest advantage of the country are people. Their hospitality and good energy are so inspiring. They’re always smiling a lot. Me and my Polish friends should learn from them, and their way of life. I start from today.
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
If I get the opportunity to become a Ms. Tourism Sri Lanka International, I’ll do everything to bring Sri Lanka to Poland, at first, and then, I’ll take it to the world. I know that I can do this. It means a lot to me. This will be an incredible pleasure to become an ambassador of Sri Lanka. I will work on each other. I’m motivated to learn English to be ready to promote Sri Lanka to the world. I’m sure that it’ll change my life a lot but I am ready for it. And I strongly believe that it will be the best year of my life. Summarizing, if I win the competition, it will allow me to represent the beautiful Sri Lanka throughout the world and, by the way, I’ll have the incredible opportunity to develop myself and my skills.
Ms. Russia
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is a wonderful and magnificent island for everyone. This is real paradise without a doubt. It’s impossible to describe all my feelings! You need to see it... the fascinating beauty of everything around takes my breath away. I want to come back here again and again. One thing I know exactly, Sri Lanka is a place where your soul and mind reunite.
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
To be honest, it would mean a lot. First of all it would mean that I have achieved one of my aims. What is more, it means that all my efforts and energy are not wasted for nothing. I want to share my happiness and experience with my country and everyone I know. Furthermore, I want my family and friends to be proud of me.
Ms. Singapore
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is a country with diverse cultures and rich in history. I had many first encounters during my visit here for the very first time. Not only are there intricate monuments to commemorate those who contributed in building this country up, the people here are always set with a positive spirit. People of Sri Lanka are accommodative and hardworking regardless of occupation which makes Sri Lanka so unique from the rest. Even though the country is vast, the hospitality that I received everywhere made me feel right at home and comfortable enough to immerse into the culture right away not forgetting the amazing flavours which are a huge part of Sri Lanka’s culture. I was able to taste authentic and traditional Sri Lankan dishes and they were absolutely delectable. This pageant has given me a humble eye opening experience of Sri Lanka by allowing me to interact with the locals and made me realize how much the country has to offer. I strongly believe that Sri Lanka has limitless potential when it comes to world staging as long as the rest are able to experience what I have.
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
Being a representative from a small country, it would mean a great deal to me if I am able to win this pageant. I would like to inspire others out there to dream big and not be afraid to follow their dreams. You never know what could happen if you don’t try. Singapore is also a small country full of diverse cultures and history. Therefore, I believe if I win this pageant, I am able to promote Sri Lanka as one of the must visit destinations in Asia. My ultimate aim is for the world to see what Sri Lanka has to offer and, winning this pageant would give me a boost in assisting me achieve my aim. Being a hotelier is an added advantage for me too as it gives direct access to the tourism industry in Singapore. Besides that, I would also like to engage in charity activities for children after the school visit touched my heart. Not forgetting nature conservation activities as we only have one Mother Nature. If I win this pageant, it would ease my efforts in bringing across my cause. My job doesn’t end here if I were to win the crown, it is the beginning of something great entrusted to me. I would like to see this pageant grow bigger year by year and to place it on the global map alongside with the world’s biggest named pageants.
Ms. Sri Lanka
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
I was born here and I’ve lived here all my life and my regular international travels give me much scope to compare our country with the rest of the world. Sri Lanka is blessed with warm smiles of our people; we have a culture of hospitality (sometimes I reflect on that when I keep making tea for my roommate); we have scenic landscapes in our hill country and dry zones, exciting festivals, spectacular sunsets and beaches and Sri Lanka is also one of the most bio-diverse places in the world too! We are unique in what we have to offer. In one tiny little island in the Indian Ocean, we have tropical golden beaches, a breathtaking hill country, lush flora and fauna, thrilling safaris, rich culture and heritage, curative Ayurveda – there’s something here for everyone! You can really refresh your mind, your body and your soul here in our island nation. I am proud and honoured to be taking the world to Sri Lanka!
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
First of all, I am blessed to have had the opportunity to represent our country at the very first international pageant held here in Sri Lanka. A main aim of Ms. Tourism Sri Lanka International is to select an ambassador for the promoting of tourism in Sri Lanka. As a Sri Lankan living in Sri Lanka, I’ve had the blessings of experiencing everything Sri Lanka has to offer. Even though I promote our country to those whom I interact with, I would love to do that on a much bigger scale. Sri Lanka is amazing and I want to share that with the world.
Ms. Sweden
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka, for me, has been one of the best experience in my life and one of a kind! Everything from the food to the people and the nature. I can’t wait to get back home to Sweden and tell everyone what I’ve experienced here. Sri Lanka have many things that are similar to Sweden. The people in Sweden are also very friendly and our nature is also very highly respected and green. Depending in what part of the country you are, there is also a big difference and I like that a lot. I feel that the Swedes haven’t discovered Sri Lanka yet. I think they need a push and when I come back I will give them that push!
What would it mean to you to win the pageant?
If I would win the pageant , it will be a life changing thing. I would not only feel responsible for my own country, Sweden, but also Sri Lanka. And that would be an honour for me. Swedish people like to travel a lot and, if I win, I would for sure open the Swedish people’s eyes for Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka will forever have a place in my heart after this amazing pageant. I also think that I would be a good ambassador for Sri Lanka in Sweden. I am very down to earth and calm person that always see the fun and positive things in life and I feel that since Sri Lanka have become so special to me, I would go with my whole heart, if I would win. Thank you for everything.
Ms. Thailand
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
If we mention about golden sands, waves crash against the wind, mountains of Mist, Mighty Elephants, Giant Whale, Country of historical cultures and religions, land of pilgrimage in the past, flavouredteas , soft and warm smiles from people. These molded together as one called Sri Lanka. In my opinion, Sri Lanka is one of the nations that most travellers worldwide want to visit and I want to tell the world that Sri Lanka is The Wonder of Asia.
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
If I become Miss Tourism Sri Lanka International 2016, for me, I think it’s not just the crown on my head or the duty that I have to do. But it means the great responsibility for me to be the ambassador to showthat the Wonder of Asia is Sri Lanka and to be recognized as the destination for the travellers all over the world.
Ms. United Kingdom
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka, to me, is paradise. I have travelled to many parts of the world throughout my lifetime but Sri Lanka has some of the most hospitable and kind people I have ever met. Their greeting, ‘Ayubowan’, is a testimony to their benevolent nature. It is my first visit to Sri Lanka but I already feel at home, partly due to the influence of British colonial times that are apparent in Nuwara Eliya such as the colonial architecture and, of course, the tea but mainly due to the abundance of persistently smiling charming faces I have been greeted with everyday. I highly recommend people from all over the world come to visit Sri Lanka as it has something for all ages and nationalities. Whilst I have been here, I have experienced a myriad of culinary cuisine, the eclectic mix of traditional Sri Lankan food and multi-ethnic food has had my taste buds in pure delight every meal time. I am intoxicated by the variety of breathtaking scenery and I am humbled by the caring nature of the Sri Lankan people. Bohoma Sthuthi Sri Lanka!
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
It would be a great honour and an extraordinary privilege to represent Sri Lanka on an international scale, the main reason for this is because up until recently, my knowledge on Sri Lanka was limited to flicking through a Lonely Planet book but, over the last week, I have witnessed the genuine warmth, kindness and hospitality of Sri Lankan people and been intoxicated by the incredible landscapes, exotic food and diverse activities on offer in the country. Because I am from another country, the judges selecting me as the winner would mean they believe in my ability to continue to learn about Sri Lanka and to continue promoting tourism as a confident ambassador with a beautiful heart as well as a beautiful face. I would personally be interested in the opportunity to explore more of what Sri Lanka has to offer. I am particularly eager to experience water sports including whale watching and scuba diving so I can witness the beauty of Sri Lanka both on land and under the sea.
Ms. USA
Your thoughts on Sri Lanka?
...curves as the road from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy. The travel books simply do not do this fascinating country justice. Nothing could have prepared me for the emotional joy ride I am on now…. My first impression was that of kindness and hospitality. It can be disconcerting travelling to the opposite of the world but the gracious attitude of the Sri Lankan people has made me feel as though I never left home. When I am not busy getting to know my new best friend, I look around only to be struck by the breathtaking beauty and diversity of the country’s landscape. From city to village and beach to mountain, I have yet to yearn for something more. After seeing less than 15% of the country, I am confident I could spend month after month and never run out of new things to discover. I have been brought to tears daily by the uniqueness of culture, the passion of the people, the stunning scenery, and the societal accomplishments of Sri Lanka. There is most likely no English word to show my gratitude. So, I will leave it with you, as this country has left with me: Ayubowan!
What would it mean to you to win this pageant?
I feel I have already won this pageant simply by experiencing Sri Lanka the way I have, but by walking away with the crown on February 21st, my life would change forever. I would be given the opportunity to reciprocate the immense love I’ve felt from this country back to the people who make this culture as astonishing as it is. I would then be given the even greatest opportunity to take that message of love, diversity and uniqueness and share it with the world, breaking barriers and sharing a vision of greatness with everyone I met. That is what I live for. Winning the pageant provides a platform for me to bring all the people of the world closer together. There is nothing more important than establishing understanding and respect for one another and I would blessed, honoured and humbled to have that job on behalf of Sri Lanka. The crown and the title are additional gifts that accompany the responsibility of representing this land and acting as an ambassador for global peace and local tourism. The United States of America, as a country and a people, is proud of me and the work I do to bridge relations between nations and expand tourism opportunities. Having this title gives me official duty to maintain the bridges that have been built and build new bridges where there are none. Simply put, living and working my dream, makes me a very lucky woman.
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