Kerala Tourism Launches App to Attract Women Tourists

Thiruvananthapuram (Agency): In an effort to cater to the increasing number of women traveling solo or in groups, Kerala Tourism has announced the launch of a mobile application that will feature women-friendly tourism packages, women tour operators and guides, and provide information on suitable amenities. The app aims to enhance the overall experience and ensure a pleasant and hassle-free visit to the state for women travelers.

The State Responsible Tourism Mission (RT Mission), the agency responsible for implementing the 'Women-Friendly Tourism' project, has been assigned the task of preparing the content for the app. It will include location-specific details, images, and socio-cultural features of various places in Kerala, according to the tourism department.

Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas emphasized that creating a "conducive ambience for women tourists" is a top priority for the government. He acknowledged the growing trend of women traveling to distant destinations either individually or in self-formed groups. Riyas expressed confidence that the women-friendly tourism app would enhance the experience for women visiting Kerala.

The initiative, rolled out by Riyas in October last year, aligns with the UN Women's 'Gender Inclusive Tourism' concept, which promotes the active involvement of women in the tourism sector. In addition to the app, the tourism department plans to introduce various women-friendly tourism products and packages.

The project aims to engage 1.5 lakh women from Kerala and is being implemented with the support of organizations like UN Women. It has set a target of creating 10,000 women-led ventures and generating 30,000 jobs in the tourism sector, according to the press release.

The mobile app marks the beginning of the second phase of activities for this pioneering project. It will not only provide information on tourism centers in Kerala but will also feature details on women-friendly tourism products, resorts, hotels, women-owned enterprises, recognized tour operators, women tour guides, travel agencies, homestays, and more.

Additionally, the app will showcase women-led handicraft and souvenir production and sales units, as well as amenities such as restrooms, camping sites, licensed houseboats, caravan parks, ethnic cuisine units, festivals, and experiential and adventure packages.

The RT Mission has undertaken an extensive information-gathering exercise to ensure the inclusion of relevant data in the app. The agency is also studying the safety measures in place for women at tourism centers.

As the 'Women-Friendly Tourism' project progresses, the RT Mission continues to provide training to women in various aspects related to tourism. Around 1,800 women have already completed training, and elected women representatives are scheduled to undergo training in July.




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