‘We adapt to systems, technology’
K. Sebastian, Director, Cosima Travel & Trade Links, explains why Kerala is a huge draw for domestic as well as international tourists for wellness tourism. Customised products and personalised service that the company provides to its client sets it apart from others, he claims.
What kind of demand are you seeing from your clients right now? Clients need a very personal experience. Most of them know what they want and it is for the travel consultant to enhance the experience. Apparently, there is regular pattern all the time, the beginners who want to satisfy the appetite of famous and iconic destinations. Once it happens, they look for less explored or new destinations. Next is a very specific and exclusive search. This is an endless search. It has no limit, even a seasoned travel consultant wonders on the demands. Add personal touch in all segments. Hence, I don't see a specific destination demand, except on the cause of restriction imposed destination wise, specially
post Covid. Destinations are there for all segments.
Is wellness tourism picking up among Kerala travellers?
Of course, wellness is picking up. But the lack of awareness on 'wellness' is a drawback. Wellness can't be put in a capsule, if anybody claims it is possible it is not right. Wellness demands time and patience. Be in a quality wellness centre, use the service of professionals and experienced persons. Past two decades, Kerala tourism and health department has been focusing to streamline it, certainly good results are there. We all expect the quality level will improve.
What are they seeking in Kerala for wellness tourism?
One category just looks for rejuvenation, and the second one expects treatment to get relieved from serious health issues. Both are equally important, Kerala's ayurveda system has the oldest traditions and expertise to handle both.
What other destinations do you recommend to your clients looking for wellness tourism?
We do mostly FIT and closed groups from overseas market. Corporates contribute to our client base. Having the advantage of moderate weather, of course Asian countries such as Indonesia and Thailand are the best. In Europe, we recommend the Mediterranean countries for wellness.
Tell us what sets Cosima Travels apart from other tour operators?
Customised products and personalised service set us apart from everyone else. In wellness, we suggest quality spas and for the treatment we arrange consultation with reputed doctors. We suggest to go forward based on the doctor's suggestion. We provide service across the world, and our varied travel packages suit every traveller – that is our USP. We adapt to systems and technology and introduce new products as the situation demands.
What sets you apart as an expert in Kerala?
We provide village tours, agribased tours, Kerala culinary tours,
Of course, wellness is picking up. But the lack of awareness on 'wellness' is a drawback
day with an elephant programme. MICE and weddings also are our area of expertise. We are also able to provide all travel related services like ticketing and visa.