Ranked as one of National Geographic’s top 10 paradises in the world, Kerala fascinated over 200 visitors at the roadshows in Auckland, Sydney and Melbourne.
The Sydney event, held on Wednesday night at The Establishment, was hosted by secretary of Kerala Tourism, Mr. Suman Billa IAS, with guest of honour, Deputy Consul General of the Consulate General India Office in Sydney, Dr. Vinod Bahade.
Mr Billa said Kerala offers not only a bounty of unparalleled natural attractions, but also a world of serenity where travellers can have a truly out-of-this-world experience.
“A unique, untouched paradise characterised by its rolling hills, stunning waterways, wildlife and authentic cuisine. It is the perfect holiday destination for those Australian and New Zealand travellers who have a sense of adventure and thirst for a distinctive cultural experience.”
Suman Billa
Over the past four years, Kerala has seen a 60 per cent growth in visitor numbers from Australia and a 68 per cent increase from New Zealand.
“These visitation figures are set to strengthen further over the next four years as air-lift and product diversification increases, enticing more and more Aussies and Kiwis to cross the Indian Ocean and experience ‘God’s Own Country’,” he said.
Michael Dominic, Director of CGH Earth Hotels at the Kerala Tourism Roadshow in Sydney.
Kerala Tourism is also collaborating with the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) in a first to recreate the original spice route. In a move which will connect 31 countries across Europe, Asia and Far East, the new tourism offering is set to trigger voyages and excursions by new-age explorers.
One lucky attendee in each city won the grand prize of a seven night trip for two to Kerala, winners included:
- Auckland: Natalie Tambolash, World Expeditions
- Sydney: Lynette Gallas, Wendy Wu Tours
- Melbourne: Maggie Burke, Abercrombie and Kent
Grand prize winner Sydney (L-R): Mr. Suman Billa, Secretary of Kerala Tourism, Lynette Gallas, Wendy Wu Tours, Dr. Vinod Bahade, Deputy Consul General of the Consulate General India Office in Sydney.