Sri Lanka has risen significantly in the Good Trip Index, showing remarkable improvement in responsible tourism.
- The South Asian nation climbed 34 spots to rank 107th, amid improved stability after recent turmoil.
- The Good Trip Index highlights advances in human rights, sustainability, and press freedoms.
- Switzerland remains at the top, followed closely by Denmark and Sweden in the index.
- Spain and Portugal maintain strong positions within the top 20 responsible tourism destinations.
Sri Lanka’s notable ascent in the Good Trip Index reflects its substantial progress in establishing itself as a responsible tourist destination. After a period marked by instability, the country has improved its rankings by 34 places, now sitting at 107th in the global list. This improvement is an indication of the country’s ongoing efforts to boost its tourism sector responsibly.
The Good Trip Index, introduced in 2022, evaluates several key factors such as human rights, animal welfare, sustainability, LGBTQ+ rights, safety for women, quality of life, and press freedoms. This comprehensive assessment aims to guide travellers, particularly from the UK, in making ethically informed choices. Sri Lanka’s leap in the rankings signifies enhancements across these critical areas, making it a more appealing destination for the ethically-minded traveller.
While Sri Lanka celebrates its progress, India and Vietnam also marked significant advancements, each rising 22 positions in the index. India is now ranked 111th, credited mainly for its improved quality of life, while Vietnam stands at 120th.
As expected, Switzerland holds the top spot in the index, demonstrating stellar performance in responsible tourism, with Denmark and Sweden closely following. Spain and Portugal continue their strong presence in the top 20, with Spain at 11th and Portugal at 18th, highlighting their consistency in upholding responsible tourism standards since the index’s inception.
The Good Trip Index primarily addresses UK travellers’ ethical concerns, a focus that has been acknowledged as Eurocentric. Despite this, the index remains a valuable resource for those seeking responsible travel options. Its findings illustrate the positive impact that cultural and environmental changes can play in enhancing both tourism and the quality of life for local residents. “Responsible and ethical considerations have now become a deciding factor for many travellers when they make their holiday decisions,” noted David Norris, Chief Growth Officer.
Sri Lanka’s significant progress in the Good Trip Index marks an encouraging trend towards more responsible tourism, benefiting both tourists and local communities.
