Speech by Consul General Mr Lavanya Kumar
at the B2B Meet organized by the Kerala Tourism Department on
30 January 2025
(Venue: Nhow Milano, Via Tortona, 35, Milan)
Respected Secretary,
Officials of Kerala Tourism, and
Ladies and Gentlemen,
At the outset, I would like to express my gratitude to Kerala Tourism for inviting me to this B2B meet. It is an honor to address tour operators from Milan and other regions of Northern Italy.
Italy is seen in India as the epitome of romance, and the number of Indian tourists visiting Italy increases every year. Conversely, there is significant potential to boost the annual flow of Italian tourists to India, and your invaluable assistance is key to achieving this.
India stands out as one of the few countries in the world offering such a rich diversity of cultural and tourism experiences. India boasts destinations as varied as the frigid landscapes of Ladakh with minus 40 degree centigrade, the deserts, magnificent palaces, and breathtaking forts of Rajasthan, the wildlife sanctuaries of the North-East, the beautiful beaches of Goa and the Andaman Islands, the lagoons of Lakshadweep, and the backwaters and temples of Kerala. Whatever your tourism interests, India has something to offer.
We invite you to encourage destination weddings in the majestic palaces and forts of Rajasthan and lake resorts in Kerala. I'm proud to share that our skilled workforce in India can transform these venues into breathtaking settings, customized to your preferences.
Friends,
Kerala, a gem in Southern India, needs no introduction. This state offers a rich tapestry of culture and traditions to explore. From charming village life and thrilling treks to delectable Kerala cuisine and serene houseboat experiences, Kerala promises unforgettable memories. The magic of Kerala will leave an indelible impression on your heart.
Italians are already well-acquainted with Ayurveda treatment. Authentic Ayurveda centers in Kerala offer wellness and spiritual rejuvenation. These centers provide excellent treatment for various ailments, including arthritis, diabetes, neck pain, spondylosis, and mental stress, all at an affordable cost. Kerala hospitals also boast world-class medical care and highly trained professionals. You can combine allopathic medical treatment with a stay in wellness centers for a holistic rejuvenation experience. I urge you to promote this particular aspect among your customers.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
India offers a liberal and hassle-free visa regime for tourists and businesspeople. You can easily apply for an e-visa from the comfort of your home from laptops and mobile phones. Applicants will receive their visa within 72 hours. Regular visitors are also eligible for a one-year multiple-entry tourist visa. We are ready to provide long-term visas, ranging from one to five years with multiple entries, for business travelers frequently visiting India. The Consulate is also happy to assist tour operators with group visa applications for tourism, and we will prioritize processing these applications.
Various States of India regularly organize tourism fairs and invite the tour operators with return air fare and complementary stay facilities for witnessing the cultural richness. The Consulate regularly circulate these invites to all tour operators. We urge you to avail these invites to explore the facilities.
As our important partners in promoting tourism, we count on your support. Your ideas and suggestions are invaluable to us.
Thank you
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