West Asia conflict triggers cancelations, Kerala tourist spots unusually quiet
Kerala's usually lively tourist spots, like Kovalam and Varkala, are feeling unusually quiet this season.
The ongoing conflict in West Asia has led to a wave of trip cancelations from international travelers, especially Europeans, thanks to disrupted flight routes and transit-point closures/cancelations.
Airports are less crowded than usual, and local businesses that count on foreign tourists are definitely noticing the difference.
Kerala medical tourism and eateries hit
While Indian tourists are still visiting, the drop in foreign arrivals is hitting Kerala's economy hard.
Medical tourism bookings have taken a hit too, and a war-driven liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) shortage has forced some local eateries to close their doors for now.
Experts warn that if things don't improve soon, Kerala could face an economic slump similar to past downturns, especially with state elections around the corner and everyone's focus elsewhere.