Why do tourism operators favour international visitors over local tourists?

Domestic tourism can yield high returns if stakeholders find new ways to market local destinations. — SHAARI CHEMAT/The Star

Just as borders are reopening again around the world, some tourists are facing another kind of barrier – this time in the form of racial discrimination. Domestic travellers in Sri Lanka have complained of discriminatory practices by certain tourism establishments that will only accept foreign visitors.

Local authorities have been quick to react, with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) threatening stern action against establishments practising a “foreigners only” policy.