Intrepid Travel to Host 2025 Global Summit in Sri Lanka, Strengthening Commitment to Sustainable Tourism

Intrepid Travel CEO James Thornton

Intrepid Travel will bring its 2025 Global Summit to Sri Lanka, marking a significant milestone for the company’s international operations. From February 24-27, more than 200 team members from over 50 countries will gather in Colombo to discuss leadership, strategy, and sustainable growth in the travel industry.

This is only the second time Intrepid has held its flagship summit outside of its Melbourne headquarters, highlighting Sri Lanka’s increasing importance to the company’s global network. Since establishing its Sri Lanka office in 2012, Intrepid has expanded its presence in the country, now boasting its largest country office outside of Australia. The Colombo-based team has grown to 276 office staff and 45 local tour leaders, supporting essential functions in technology, revenue management, HR, finance, and customer service.

The decision to host the summit in Sri Lanka reflects Intrepid’s deep-rooted commitment to the destination. Recognised as a key player in the country’s tourism industry, the company was awarded Best Destination Loyal Partner at the Sri Lanka Tourism Awards in December and was also shortlisted as a finalist for Best Sustainable Practices in Specified Tourist Services.

The four-day event will include leadership workshops, strategic discussions, and community engagement initiatives, reinforcing Intrepid’s focus on fostering an inclusive company culture and responsible tourism practices. Employees will also have the opportunity to experience the destination first-hand, with familiarisation trips designed to connect them with Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant communities.

James Thornton, CEO of Intrepid Travel, emphasised the significance of the summit and its location.

“Our team in Sri Lanka plays a crucial role in our global operations, and our travellers love exploring this incredible country,” Thornton said. “Our vision extends beyond tourism; it’s about creating sustainable growth and ensuring local communities benefit from the success of the industry. By bringing our Global Summit to Sri Lanka, we are reinforcing our commitment to the destination while supporting local businesses and communities.”

Intrepid has seen remarkable growth in Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, welcoming over 4,000 travellers to the country in 2024—a 206% increase from the previous year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Looking ahead, Intrepid’s Sri Lanka Destination Management Company (DMC) aims to bring 15,000 travellers to the island by 2030, further driving economic opportunities for local communities, small businesses, and tour operators.

Poornaka Delpachitra, General Manager of Intrepid Travel Sri Lanka, expressed his enthusiasm for hosting the summit in Colombo.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase Sri Lanka’s incredible tourism offerings, share our culture, and celebrate our biggest people event of the year right here in my home country,” Delpachitra said.

By bringing its Global Summit to Sri Lanka, Intrepid Travel continues to lead the way in sustainable tourism, fostering innovation, collaboration, and responsible travel practices that benefit both travellers and the destinations they visit.