A new concept in Kerala

Tourism is thus a very useful means of earning the much needed foreign currency and for certain developing countries like India and states like Kerala, it is one of the main sources of income. It is a very important factor for correcting an adverse balance of payments situation during certain parts of the year, when the country had to face adverse economic situations. The tourism department has now given permission to even the large households to admit the international tourist in search of the social life of the common man. When considering the life in a homestay kerala state offers a diversity of sorts.

A tourist can choose from the most traditional thatched house to the more advanced architecturally modified modern concrete home. While on the one hand the concept of homestay was introduced due to the non-availability of quality hotel rooms in the prominent tourist centers, on the other hand many people were actually awaiting the government nod for signing up for starting the homestays.

Remarkably, tourism is the only export trade that earns large foreign exchange without depleting the national resources, and without actually exporting any material goods. This is the only industry which brings in returns without any sacrifice on the part of the exporting country. In a state like Kerala abounding in natural resources, it is the easiest way to earn foreign exchange.

The tourist from abroad also represents an overseas market right at our doorstep. Undoubtedly, loans and aids create a heavy burden for future generations; as both usually involve repayment of principal and payment of accrued interest, leave aside the effect of national dignity and self-reliance. As against this, the exchange earnings from tourism are free of either of these shortcomings.

During the last tourism season there was a significant fall in foreign exchange due to a fall in the tourist arrivals due to the global recession. Only very few homestays could attract some visitors. Many of the homestays also exited totally out of this business. But this year, things are actually looking up. There is much hope in the tourism industry of getting over the negative growth patterns of the previous year.