Kerala Tourism has launched a novel scheme in which non-resident Keralites can invite friends from their places of stay to the home State and enjoy a free holiday at home in return.

The ‘Bring Home a Friend' initiative was launched by the Home and Tourism Minister, Mr Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, here last evening to involve Malayalee diaspora in promoting their state as a preferred tourist destination.

An audio-guide service to provide information on mobile phones in different languages about tourism spots in the State was also inaugurated.

People from anywhere in the world could receive information of tourist centres by dialling 0-9048755555. “Both the initiatives are part of the Tourism Department's efforts to use technology to attract visitors to the State, which has already emerged as a major destination in India,” the Minister said.

The initiative would involve the diaspora outside the country as well as within India. Under the scheme, you should register for ‘Bring Home a Friend' on the Kerala Tourism's Web site ( www.keralatourism.org/bhf/ ).

After the registration, you could refer your friends to the Web site. Each referral would automatically be forwarded three accredited tour operators, who, in turn, would present their packages to the prospective visitors.

The system would award you points at 10-per-cent equivalent of the package value, excluding flights. You could later redeem the points to buy a holiday package in Kerala or gift it.

The audio guide is a recorded commentary on tourist locations of the State, the first such service by a State. Telecom major Vodafone has been selected as the technology partner.

Related Topics