KOCHI: The ninth edition of Kerala Travel Mart, the biggest biennale conclave of tourism stakeholders in the state, which concluded at Samudrika Convention Centre, Willingdon Island on Friday, witnessed increased participation from more countries. Around one lakh business meetings – both scheduled and unscheduled- were held during the three-day event. This year, the KTM focused on ‘Responsible Tourism’ and ‘Muziris and Spice Route.’ Nearly 60, 000 business meetings were held during the first two days. On the final day, there were around 40,000 unscheduled meetings.
Besides tourism and trade officials from Kerala and other neighbouring states, tour operators, travel agents, hoteliers as well as owners of resorts, houseboats and home-stays participated in the event. “The mart has been evolving as a spectacular international event in terms of number and quality of buyers. The eco-friendly concepts promoted and the technology-powered pavilions are very positive,” observed Mr Abraham George, Kerala Travel Mart Society president. Of the 560 foreign buyers registered, 350 attended. The total number of buyers was 1400, he added.
People experience the 3D virtual reality show of Kerala tourism.
Responding to queries on the liquor curbs affecting the tourism sector, especially MICE tourism, Mr Abraham George said that the industry was hopeful of getting a favourable decision from the state government in this regard. The event had 265 stalls which featured a range of products, packages and services. “The KTM aims to develop tourism by empowering the local community. Hence, we adopted a comprehensive 9-point CSR agenda to promote eco-friendly and responsible tourism,” he said. The agenda calls for measures to tackle waste management, promote organic farming, efficient use of energy and extensive utilisation of local produce and products. Other key areas are rainwater harvesting, reducing the use of plastics and improving greenery.
