KOCHI: The spiralling cost of a holiday trip to Kerala may offset the State’s unique advantage as a must-see destination, said a cross-section of buyers at the ongoing KTM-2014. “Kerala is a wonderful place with high quality of hospitality products. But, cost-wise the state is on the high side”, said Mr Rahul of Mumbai-based Jesal Holidays.
A holiday costing Rs 20,000-30,000 in Himachal Pradesh may cost Rs 40,000-50,000 in Kerala, said Ms Nimisha J. a colleague of Mr Rahul. But she admitted that the quality of hospitality products in terms of rooms and other facilities in Kerala is much higher compared to Himachal. Amory Ternynck of Tushita Travels from France said rich travellers preferring five-star style facilities might not feel the pinch. But those belonging to the three-star category would have a different feeling, he said.
Cost is a major factor when it comes to availing ayurveda wellness treatment and therapies. “It is advised that a person should complete at least a 14-day ayurveda course. But, most of the ayurveda offerings are on the high side with the cost hovering in the range of Rs 10,000 a day. This is certainly on the high side and cost in the range of Rs 5,000 a day will attract more visitors”, Amory said.
The emergence of Sri Lanka as major player in the global tourism sector is also likely to hit the tourist arrivals to the state.
The projection of the state as a high cost destination is unlikely to hit the business prospects of tour operators specialising on discerning travellers, said Ms Reena Tory of Mantra Wild Adventurers based in Australia. Kim van den Berg, from South Africa, also expressed similar views.
