Kerala Tourism celebrated a record-breaking turnout in Australia last week, captivating over 100 Australian travel professionals across Sydney and Melbourne with the allure of ‘God’s Own Country’.
With exceptional attendance of 111 industry professionals across Sydney and Melbourne, Kerala Tourism’s Roadshow marked a successful engagement with the Australian market, with Hon. Consul of General of India, Dr. Sushil Kumar also in attendance in Melbourne.
The afternoon began with an ‘Hour of Power’, where wholesalers met with 4 hotel partners and 2 tour operators from Kerala in a speed-dating style. Followed by the arrival of travel agents and media for networking before moving into presentations.
Kerala Tourism’s Secretary, Mr. Biju K. IAS gave guests an update on what’s new in the destination, including the growing emphasis on wellness tourism, nature and cultural festivals.
Giles Gilbert, ANZ Regional Manager from airline partner, Malaysia Airlines, which flies to two destinations within Kerala, Kochi and Trivandrum, provided an update on what’s new for the airline.
Pictured left to right: Mr. Biju K. IAS. (Secretary, Kerala Tourism), Andrew Denishensky,(Entourage Travel)
The evening was filled with lively conversation and networking, complemented with delicious canapes and drinks, as attendees learnt about Kerala’s diverse landscapes, rich culture and warming hospitality, along with its impressive product offerings such as ayurveda, houseboats and tea plantations.
Kerala Tourism’s Secretary, Mr. Biju K. IAS said the Roadshow has been a great success, demonstrating a keen interest in Kerala’s distinctive experiences among Australians.
“We’re pleased with the great success of the Kerala Roadshow, which reaffirmed Kerala’s appeal to Australians with a strong interest in its special experiences from scenic backwaters to its responsible tourism initiative. We look forward to welcoming more visitors to experience the beauty and warmth of ‘God’s Own Country’”, said Mr. Biju K. IAS.
Pictured left to right: Giles Gilbert, (ANZ Regional Manager, Malaysia Airlines), Chris Maxfield (Flight Centre), Mr. Biju K. IAS. (Secretary, Kerala Tourism)
To cap off the memorable evening, a prize draw awarded two lucky attendees round-trip flights to Kerala and a 7-night stay, sparking excitement for what awaits in ‘God’s Own Country’.
The Sydney Roadshow prize winner was Chris Maxfield from Flight Centre and Andrew Denishensky from Entourage Travel at the Melbourne Roadshow.
Kerala Tourism invites travel industry professionals to stay tuned for more upcoming events and trade opportunities. For additional information and trade updates on Kerala, please visit www.keralatourism.org
