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Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a tourist destination?
Logically thinking some of the points are as follows -
1) Why would somebody come to Andaman for a vacation when the air fare is exorbitantly high?
As on 30th Jan 2010 , the airfare from Chennai to Port Blair was approximately Rs.20,755/- economy class Kingfisher red , while return fare on 1st Feb 2010 was Rs.17,233/-.
When one can go for an international vacation at a much cheaper cost why spend that kind of money only on travel within India!
For example currently Ezeego is giving amazing offers on Dubai shopping festival. Ex Mumbai return economy class air fare , accommodation for 3 nights with breakfast and guided city tour and all this is for a price of Rs.16,299/-.
Another interesting offer in Jan 2010 from TTF is a 4 day /3 nights Thailand – Bangkok & Pattaya for only Rs.19990/-. This includes Return airfare from Bangalore, airport taxes, airport transfers, 3 star hotel accommodation, all 3 meals and sightseeing.
Frankly speaking, any Indian would prefer to get a stamp on his passport by going overseas at that cost with his family than spend more on an Indian vacation!
2) Secondly why does A&N not actively participate in the annual Trade and Travel Fair if it’s serious about promoting tourism?
The TTF was held on 15th, 16th & 17th Jan 2010 in Bangalore. There were stalls from various states in India as well as overseas .The participants were from J&K, Rajasthan, Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Ladakh, Nepal, Turkey, Hong Kong, South America etc. Unfortunately A&N did not feature anywhere. Aitken Spencer Hotels (a private concern) had a stall promoting its hotels / resorts in South India. One of the standees in that stall had publicity for Barefoot at Havelock. That was about all I saw on Andaman in the entire Fair!
I personally think it’s high time the Government of A&N should put on their thinking caps and take some drastic steps before it’s too late.
3) They should focus on not only how to attract tourism but also how to ensure that people keep coming back for more each season.
For example people in Delhi keep going to Shimla every summer for their vacation and people in South go to Ooty. Goa is still an all time favorite. Similarly A&N should encourage people to return frequently and not just make it a “onetime” holiday destination.
Let’s strive in making Andaman & Nicobar Islands a well know and sort after holiday destination year after year!
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