A new challenge is emerging in the tourism sector of the state - The Alert Independent Traveller (AIT). He is well-educated, has the capacity to spend, he is sensitive and is also concerned about the ecology.
To cater to the needs of this new breed of travellers, Kerala tourism has to be better equipped. This was the feeling from the tourism industry stalwarts at the ongoing Kerala Travel Mart in Kochi. Apart from giving the virtual experience, events like KTM provides excellent platform to interact with the Alert Independent Traveller, they said.
Apart from experiencing the art and culture of the places, the modern tourist wants to interact with the civil society which is very much important for the tourism sector, said Jose Dominic, managing director of CGH Earth Hotels.
“Nowadays tourists are looking to engage in experiences. They know that the ultimate luxury is sustainable. Earlier, we were looking for potential tourists from the UK, US and France and now its has changed. To woo the Alert Independent Traveller we have to give something special and the responsibility is getting complicated,” he said.
According to Gerard Bogrand, managing director of Ayurveda Voyages-France the tourism industry has become experience based now. “The customers can view their preferred destinations and all other details related to their travel online. But what they are actually looking for is the different experience that a place could provide. Meet like KTM plays an important role in this regard since it provides a platform to interact,” he said.
The concern for environment has become a keyword and if the state promotes this culture as part of its branding, Kerala can overcome the new challenges in the sector, Jose Dominic said.
The 350 resorts and home stays which are participating in the Kerala Travel Mart are well-equipped to explain the unique experience they could provide for the tourists.
Comments
0 comment