Thursday, January 30, 2025

At FITUR 2025, Travel And Tour World had the privilege of interviewing Biju K, IAS, Tourism Secretary for the Government of Kerala, a leading figure in shaping Kerala’s tourism strategy. During this insightful conversation, Biju K shared his vision for the state’s tourism sector, emphasizing Kerala’s commitment to sustainable tourism practices, the promotion of local culture, and its efforts to position Kerala as a must-visit destination for global travelers.

The discussion highlighted Kerala’s diverse offerings, from its serene backwaters and lush greenery to its rich heritage, cuisine, and Ayurvedic wellness experiences. Biju K explained how Kerala’s unique selling points align with the global trend towards experiential and sustainable travel.

In addition, he detailed initiatives by the Government of Kerala to integrate technology and innovation into the tourism sector. These include AI-driven solutions for personalised travel experiences, smart tourism infrastructure, and the use of digital tools to promote eco-friendly practices.

Biju K also spoke about Kerala’s commitment to empowering local communities by creating employment opportunities through tourism and fostering cultural preservation.

In the context of FITUR 2025, he emphasized Kerala’s active role in international tourism partnerships, leveraging platforms like FITUR to showcase Kerala’s attractions and collaborate with global stakeholders.

This engaging conversation underscored Kerala’s evolving identity as a world-class, sustainable tourism destination, rooted in its natural beauty and cultural authenticity yet forward-looking in its approach to innovation.

I am absolutely delighted to be part of FITUR 2025. It’s a fantastic platform for Kerala Tourism to showcase our offerings to the global travel market. This event provides us with an excellent opportunity to strengthen Kerala’s presence, especially in Spain, where our state is well-recognized as “God’s Own Country.”

One of the most important aspects of our participation is reinforcing Kerala as a brand. We have a strong presence in international markets, particularly Spain, and we want to further establish ourselves by highlighting the diverse range of experiences that Kerala offers. From pristine beaches and scenic midlands to majestic highlands and serene backwaters, Kerala is truly a nature-lover’s paradise.

Our main focus at this event has been on wellness tourism and responsible tourism. These are two key segments that align perfectly with the changing preferences of modern travelers.

Absolutely. Wellness tourism is a growing global trend, and Kerala is at the forefront of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of holistic healing. We want to introduce authentic Ayurvedic therapies to European travelers, particularly in Spain. Kerala has positioned itself as a hub for wellness and rejuvenation, offering world-class Ayurveda treatments that go beyond traditional leisure travel. FITUR has given us the opportunity to educate travelers about these experiences and attract those seeking authentic and transformative wellness retreats.

Responsible tourism is another pillar of our strategy. We are committed to ecologically and socially responsible travel, ensuring that tourism benefits both visitors and local communities. The modern traveler is looking for more than just sightseeing; they want meaningful, immersive experiences. Kerala is leading the way in sustainable tourism by promoting community-based travel initiatives, eco-friendly accommodations, and ethical tourism practices. Through responsible tourism, we ensure that visitors not only enjoy Kerala’s natural beauty but also contribute positively to local livelihoods and conservation efforts.

Currently, our largest number of visitors comes from the USA, the UK, and Germany. Spain is also emerging as an important market, particularly in the leisure and wellness travel segments. However, we want to see even more travelers from the UK and other European nations explore Kerala. Our state is unique, with rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and wellness offerings, and we believe there is great potential for attracting a wider international audience.

Kerala stands out because of its diverse landscapes, cultural richness, and wellness tourism offerings. We have a strong and aggressive global marketing strategy, ensuring that Kerala remains visible in major international travel forums. We actively participate in top travel fairs such as WTM London, ITB Berlin, and FITUR, which we have been attending for the past 25 years. These events are crucial in maintaining our connections with global travel professionals and expanding our reach.

Yes, absolutely. While Spain and Europe are key markets for us, we are actively expanding into new destinations. After FITUR, we have plans to host a roadshow in Milan, visit Barcelona, and explore potential opportunities in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

We are also focusing on Southeast Asia, with plans to promote Kerala in Singapore and Malaysia. Furthermore, the Middle East is an important market for us, and we are strengthening our presence in Qatar and Dubai. We have already extended our reach to Sydney and Melbourne, and our long-term goal is to position Kerala as a truly global travel destination.

The Government of Kerala is fully committed to making the state a major global travel destination. Through our strategic partnerships and targeted promotional campaigns, we are continuously reaching new audiences. Our expansion is not limited to just a few countries; we are working on creating a worldwide presence, ensuring that Kerala is recognized across multiple continents as a must-visit destination.

Visitors can look forward to an even richer tourism experience, with enhanced infrastructure, innovative travel packages, and expanded wellness retreats. We are focused on promoting high-value, experiential travel, where visitors can engage with Kerala’s culture, nature, and sustainable tourism initiatives. We are confident that Kerala will continue to attract more travelers, offering them an unforgettable and transformative travel experience.

FITUR 2025, one of the world’s premier international tourism fairs, is set to redefine the global travel landscape. Hosted in Madrid, Spain, from January 22 to 26, 2025, the event brings together tourism professionals, industry leaders, and innovators to showcase cutting-edge developments, foster collaborations, and set the tone for the future of travel.

This year’s edition focuses heavily on sustainability, digital transformation, and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the tourism sector. Featuring over 8,500 exhibitors and anticipated to welcome more than 250,000 participants from around the globe, FITUR 2025 highlights a shared commitment to advancing the tourism industry.

A special emphasis is placed on the role of AI-driven technologies in enhancing traveler experiences, from hyper-personalized recommendations to efficient operational management. FITUR 2025 also underscores sustainability as a critical focus, encouraging industry stakeholders to adopt eco-friendly practices and promote responsible tourism.

Beyond the exhibition halls, FITUR serves as a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. Delegations from various countries—including destination partners like Korea, known for its dynamic tourism innovations—will showcase their unique offerings and seek partnerships to boost their global tourism presence.

Workshops, panel discussions, and keynote speeches by industry leaders will delve into key trends, such as smart tourism infrastructure, cultural preservation, and the evolving expectations of modern travelers.

With its forward-thinking agenda, FITUR 2025 sets the stage for transforming tourism, embracing innovation, and paving the way for a sustainable future.

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