There are some 1,200 houseboats awaiting holidaymakers
Representational image
ALAPPUZHA: With the strike of Munnar tea workers coming to an end, the backwater hospitality industry is hoping for an upswing in domestic tourist arrivals during puja holidays this week.
The long-drawn-out protests blocking roads to hill stations had prompted many desi holidaymakers to look elsewhere, and the tour operators here are worried over cancellations.
Backwaters were considered a major temptation for the tourists while finalising their itinerary in Kerala during the puja holidays over the years. Now the climate too is favou-rable.
But, tour operators say, the strike had hit them hard, and the enquiries have dropped by half. Now they are trying to lure them back with discounted rates and packages.
“We keep informing them of the political situation prevailing here. Many remain skeptical. They’re not sure if they won’t be stranded somewhere by a flash strike,” said Switten George, a houseboat owner. “We expect a clear picture to emerge in two days.”
There was an increase of 8.96 percent in foreign (60,337) and 9.37 percent in domestic (246,156) arrivals in Alappuzha district last year, compared to 2013.
“The strike’s a matter of worry for all of us. We offer special treatments during puja holidays with traditional music, Kath-akali, folk dances and, of course, cuisine,” said M Sanalkumar, manager of Pulickattil houseboats.
There are some 1,200 houseboats awaiting holidaymakers. They do brisk business during the season.
( Source : deccan chronicle )
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