Balancing for the future success of tourism in Sri Lanka

Purpose - This paper aims to document the views of a Sri Lankan hotelier/tourism educator on the essential ingredients needed to ensure the future success of tourism in Sri Lanka. Design/methodology/approach - The paper is based on an interview covering eight questions in the context of a strategic overall question: "how might post-war Sri Lanka develop inbound tourism?" Findings - Sri Lanka celebrates two milestones in 2012 - reaching one million tourists and US$ one billion annual income level from tourism. However, it is evident that the key to the future success of tourism in Sri Lanka is simply a "balancing act". Various important aspects and initiatives should be carefully and strategically balanced now and in the long run so as to ensure that future tourism targets can be attained in a sustainable manner. In conclusion, 12 suggestions are made to reflect where balancing is most needed. Practical implications - Tourism in Sri Lanka has the potential to emerge as a major export income earner. To further develop tourism, Sri Lanka must balance identified and important aspects and then find innovative and practical solutions. Originality/value - An international hospitality and tourism educator and a Sri Lankan journalist collaborate in writing this question and answer style paper. The approach taken should be of interest and use to all stakeholders of tourism in Sri Lanka.