Thiruvananthapuram: With the rupee weakening against the US dollar, foreign travel has become significantly more expensive. Travelers now have to spend 15-20% more on accommodation and flight tickets, as costs have surged due to multiple factors.
Factors Driving Up Costs
In addition to the rising value of the dollar, flight fares have been impacted by schedule cutbacks and disruptions at Middle East transit hubs. Local inflation at popular destinations has also added to the financial burden on tourists.
Impact on Southeast Asia Travel
Airlines have reduced flights to Vietnam and Thailand from Kochi, affecting travel to Southeast Asia and the Far East. This has led to a growing preference for domestic holidays among travelers.
Sejoe Jose of the Indian Association of Tour Operators stated that trips to Europe have become very expensive, as flight routes now pass through the Middle East, where disruptions are common. He noted that the combination of flight prices, hotel tariffs, and local inflation has created significant challenges for travelers.
Flight and Cost Details
There are no direct flights to Vietnam and Bangkok, with fares ranging between Rs 30,000 and Rs 50,000. Jose added that travelers are forced to spend on local expenses upon reaching their destinations, making it difficult to promote these destinations.
The disruption of flights in the Middle East has led to further delays and cancellations on routes. As a result, people have to spend 10-15% more than planned.
Rise in Domestic Tourism
This situation has led to an increase in domestic bookings. People from Kerala are traveling to northern states like the Northeast and Jammu and Kashmir, while travelers from northern regions are visiting Kerala.
