Kerala Tourism is making a vibrant mark at the World Travel Market (WTM) 2024 in London, one of the most prominent global trade fairs for the travel and tourism industry. Since its opening on November 5th, the Kerala Pavilion has attracted a steady stream of visitors eager to discover the state’s unique offerings.
The WTM in London is a prime platform for showcasing leading travel destinations and connecting tourism industry professionals from across the globe. With the United Kingdom being a major market for Kerala, this event presents a valuable opportunity to engage with international travelers and partners.
The pavilion, inaugurated by Vikram K. Doraiswamy, Indian High Commissioner in London, is led by Kerala’s Tourism Director, Sikha Surendran. Spanning 110 square meters, the pavilion’s theme, “A Wonderful World,” reflects Kerala’s diverse cultural heritage.
Kerala brings its traditions to life within the pavilion through captivating live performances of Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, showcasing the state’s rich artistry. Participating alongside business partners from Kerala’s tourism sector, Kerala Tourism sees WTM 2024 as a crucial step in promoting the state internationally.
Tourism and Public Works Minister Shri PA Mohamed Riyas emphasized that this engagement at WTM will significantly strengthen Kerala’s campaign to attract foreign tourists.
“Kerala promotes the idea of a tourism destination suitable for all seasons. New destinations and innovative tourism circuits are being introduced,” he said. “The state is recording a steady growth in foreign tourist arrivals. Based on the discussions at the trade fair, we expect more UK tourists to come to Kerala in the new season,” Shri Riyas added.
“The arrival of tourists from foreign markets, including the UK, will increase through the commercial partnership discussions with industry representatives,” he said.
Tourism Director Smt Sikha Surendran, leading the Kerala Delegation to WTM, highlighted that Kerala Tourism’s unique products and initiatives are well-presented to the global tourism industry at the event. “The business interactions at the trade fair will significantly benefit the state’s tourism industry,” she said.
Eleven tourism businesses from Kerala are showcasing their offerings at WTM London alongside Kerala Tourism, representing a diverse range of experiences, including an Ayurvedic resort, four hotels and resorts, five tour operators, and a houseboat service provider. Participating brands include Kerala Tourism Development Corporation, Abad Hotels and Resorts, Alhind Tours and Travels, Cosima Holidays India, Eastend Hotels and Resorts, Krishnendu Ayurveda, Oscar Cruises, Pioneer Personalized Holidays, Santa Monica Tours and Travels, Travelkart India, and UDS Group of Hotels and Resorts.
This premier trade fair, where Kerala’s unique travel experiences are being highlighted, is set to conclude on November 7th.