Sri Lanka is tops in travel mag’s list

Colombo: Travel + Leisure, a US travel magazine has ranked Sri Lanka Number 1 in its list of “The 15 Best Islands in the World” released on July 10.

The New York-based travel magazine which has 4.8 million readers worldwide, referring to Sri Lanka, said while several islands made their debut in the list, one newcomer vaulted directly into the No. 1 spot.

Sri Lanka received the highest score of 92.12 out of 100, with Palawan in the Philippines and Bali in Indonesia being ranked second and third.

“Located just south of India, this roughly 25,000sq mile (64,750sq km) island tempts travel­lers with a diversity of experiences. Along the stunning coastline, the marine national parks make this destination a surfer’s, snorkeller’s, and diver’s dream. Inland, tea plantations await exploration, as do wildlife parks, which teem with animals, including elephants, monkeys, and one of the world’s largest populations of leopards,” Travel + Leisure described the island.

Travel + Leisure noted that Sri Lanka is recovering from the impact of the Easter attacks and that the island had not lost any of its beauty.

“After the terrorist attacks in April, Sri Lanka’s booming tourism industry has taken a hit, but the island country is on the mend – and as glorious as ever to visit. It’s worth clearing your calendar to spend as much time as possible on this 25,000sq mile jewel, located off the coast of India.”

The magazine also made special note of the wildlife attractions of Sri Lanka.

“Animal enthusiasts can explore its national parks and spot wildlife including leopards, elephants, and peacocks, while its sprawling tea plantations offer views out over the island’s lush, green hills. You could happily spend weeks on these inland adventures, but you won’t want to miss the coast, where divers, snorkellers, and waders alike revel in the cerulean waters that whales, dolphins, and sea turtles are lucky enough to call home.” — The Island/Asia News Network