A significant shift is underway in the travel plans of Kochi residents this festive season. An increasing number of people, popularly known as Kochiites, are opting for international holidays in Asian countries like Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka, leaving traditional domestic destinations behind. The primary driver for this change is the surprising affordability of overseas travel compared to trips within India, largely due to cheaper international airfares.
Cost Parity Makes Foreign Shores More Appealing
Travel experts confirm that the economics of travel have flipped. Paulose K Mathew, a national managing committee member of the Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI), highlighted the stark comparison. He revealed that a four-day trip to Kashmir from Kochi costs approximately Rs 50,000 per person. Astonishingly, a similar four-day tour package to Vietnam comes at around the same price. This package typically includes airfare, accommodation, and local travel costs.
"High airfare in the domestic sector has emerged as the major reason for this shift," Mathew stated. He further explained that low airfares and the no-visa cost factor for several Southeast Asian nations play a crucial role in keeping the overall expenditure affordable for travelers from Kerala.
Domestic Favorites and the Climate Factor
Within India, the preferred destinations for Kochiites remain Delhi, Agra, Kullu-Manali, Hyderabad, and Goa. Jaipur also sees considerable interest. However, tour operators note that bookings for these domestic Christmas holidays were largely secured before the recent surge in airfares took effect.
Another deterrent for north Indian travel is the weather. C P Ajith Kumar, former president of the Travel Operators Association of Kerala, pointed out that adverse climatic conditions like fog in north India are key factors pushing people towards more predictable Asian destinations.
For those staying within Kerala, Munnar continues to be the top choice, followed by Thekkady, Marari, and Wagamon.
Airport Charges and Airline Woes Impact Future Travel
The situation is compounded by broader issues in the aviation sector. A recent hike in charges at Cochin International Airport Ltd (Cial) has created turbulence. Mathew detailed that Cial increased landing and airport charges for airlines from about 40% to 64% of the handling charges. This move has posed difficulties for low-cost carriers like Batik Air and VietJet.
As a result, Batik Air and VietJet were learned to have decided to stop their services to Kochi after January next year. Following discussions, Batik Air authorities seem inclined to continue services after Cial communicated that the proposed hike would not be enforced. The decision from VietJet, however, remains uncertain.
This confluence of high domestic fares, attractive international packages, and operational challenges is reshaping the holiday travel landscape for residents of Kochi, making passports a more common sight than ever during the Christmas break.
