TravTalk India Online Magazine
Kerala has become the global leader in implementing a unique model of Bubble appraoch and responsible tourism which is not confined to certain practices, properties, operators but taken up by the tourism destinations.
Janice Alyosius
At a recent virtual meet with Dr Venu V, Additional Chief Secretary Tourism, Govt of Kerala, talked about Kerala tourism being adversely affected by the pandemic in 2020 and Nipah Virus and the massive floods in 2018. “The industry bounced back in 2019, with the support of the partners and recorded an incredible surge in 2019 and after that the pandemic hit us. Today we are paying for our efficiency and work last year ” said Dr. Venu
The second wave of Covid-19 has impacted Kerala badly and we see the number of cases unabated. Kerala was successful in handling the pandemic in the first year with a systematic, methodical management and flattening the curve. However the second wave seems unabated, though we hope to emerge out of it in the com+ing months”said Venu.
Kerala has come up with the initiative of Bubble approach to revive tourism. The Bubble Approach consists of bubble accommodation, vaccinated staff and areas without risk of infection. These units are allowed to receive bookings from potential tourists. Vaccinated employees are allowed to travel to work place, even in areas under lockdown. Ensuring all tourists coming to their units, strictly adhere to COVID protocols. “We have introduced an idea which got good response. With the bubble approach, the business was good during Onam and we hope to build on this momentum over the coming weeks and re-establish ourselves, reassuring customers that Kerala is safe to travel” said Venu.
Venu emphasized “Kerala has become the global leader in implementing a unique model of responsible tourism which is not confined to certain practices, properties, operators but taken up by the destinations. Different destinations will have different models of responsible tourism, anchored by responsible tourism mission”.
“The visitors will get an authentic experience with numerous avenues and opportunities to interact with local communities, understand their way of living, participate in their projects and contribute meaningfully.” He spoke about the lesser known areas in Kerala offering new properties and products. Future destination is about redefining the traveler experience, tourism activities dispersed across the state, villages and small locales which will provide unique experience to the visitors. Homestays, farmstays, boutique properties, a shift from packages to memorable traveller experiences.
