|
Dear Friends, We are in August, a very special month for us, Indians, as we celebrate our Independence Day on the 15th of August. This year, we happened to be in Kochi on Independence Day, as we were there to attend the first dedicated Wedding and MICE Conclave 2025, organised by the Kerala Travel Mart Society and the Ministry of Tourism, Government of Kerala. It was a special day, as we love Kerala, which is evidenced by the sheer volume of content about the state that you will find on our site. If you are reading this, you are definitely connected to travel, be it in terms of business or pure passion. In this edition, we take you back in time to witness briefly the fascinating history of travel and its evolution. Since the dawn of civilisation, travel has remained inseparable from the story of human progress. In prehistoric ages, humankind journeyed across continents in search of food, water, and secure havens for survival. With the rise of ancient civilisations, travel assumed richer purposes: great trade routes such as the Silk Road became arteries linking East and West, carrying not only goods but also ideas, beliefs, and cultures. Along the Nile, Egyptian nobles sailed for leisure and prestige, while in Greece, pilgrims set out for Olympia and Delphi, transforming journeys into profound encounters with faith, culture, and community—the earliest expressions of cultural and religious tourism. The history of travel in India spans millennia, woven inseparably into the fabric of its culture, spirituality, and commerce. Ancient epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata recount epic journeys across kingdoms, underscoring how pilgrimage, exploration, and quest were integral to the Indian way of life. Over the centuries, the land became a beacon for seekers of wisdom, drawing pilgrims and scholars from across Asia to its renowned Buddhist centres at Nalanda, Bodh Gaya, and Sarnath, where philosophy, faith, and knowledge converge. Adi Shankaracharya (8th century CE), the illustrious philosopher and champion of Advaita Vedanta, is venerated not only for his profound intellect but also for his remarkable journeys across the Indian subcontinent. Born in Kaladi, Kerala, he embraced renunciation at a tender age and embarked upon a spiritual odyssey that carried him across the length and breadth of India, shaping the philosophical and religious landscape of the land. The history of MICE travel—Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions—in India is a modern phenomenon, yet its origins lie deep in the subcontinent’s age-old traditions of assemblies, fairs, and cultural congregations. In antiquity, India witnessed grand gatherings such as the Buddhist Councils, the deliberations of royal courts, and vibrant trade fairs including the Kumbh Mela and bustling regional bazaars. These occasions seamlessly wove together commerce, diplomacy, spirituality, and cultural exchange—serving as natural precursors to the structured MICE events of today. Destination weddings are on the rise, and India is well poised to become the preferred destination, given its varied and idyllic locales. A destination wedding is where the sanctity of matrimony meets the allure of travel, transforming a ceremony into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Set against enchanting backdrops—whether sunlit shores, regal palaces, or mist-clad mountains—such weddings transcend the ordinary, offering an immersive celebration of love. Beyond the vows, they weave together culture, cuisine, and local traditions, gifting both couples and their guests memories that linger long after the celebrations. Increasingly sought after, destination weddings enable couples to select venues that reflect their dreams and personalities, transforming their union into not just a ritual, but a poetic journey set in timeless settings. Kerala Curates A New Dawn For Wedding & MICE Tourism
Where To Be In Kerala This Onam
|
| Onam, Kerala’s grand harvest festival, is the perfect time to explore the state’s vibrant destinations. Thrissur, with its spectacular Pulikali (tiger dance) and cultural pageantry, is a festive hub. Kochi dazzles with Onam feasts, boat races, and colorful floral carpets. Alappuzha offers the iconic Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race, a breathtaking spectacle on its serene backwaters. In Thiruvananthapuram, traditional art forms and temple festivities create a rich cultural experience. Wayanad and Munnar showcase nature’s lush beauty, enhanced by Onam celebrations in villages. Wherever you go, Kerala during Onam is a mosaic of tradition, joy, and unforgettable cultural vibrancy. |
Highlights
|
Harnessing The Power of MICE
| MICE tourism is emerging as a vital pillar in the rapidly changing travel and tourism industry, driven by its strong economic contributions, strategic significance, and capacity to reshape destinations. Representing Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions, the sector plays a pivotal role in shaping global business travel. Beyond generating revenue, MICE tourism fosters knowledge exchange, strengthens professional networks, and promotes destinations on the world stage. Its influence extends to infrastructure development, international collaboration, and cultural exchange, making it far more than a niche segment. Today, MICE stands as a catalyst for growth and innovation in global tourism. |
Highlights
|
Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: Cities You Must Visit
| Ganesh Chaturthi, one of India’s most vibrant festivals, transforms cities into hubs of devotion, music, and joy. Mumbai tops the list with its grand public pandals, the iconic Lalbaugcha Raja, and processions by the sea. Pune, the birthplace of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, is steeped in tradition and cultural performances. Hyderabad dazzles with towering idols like the Khairatabad Ganesh. In Goa, festivities blend faith with folk art, while Bangalore and Chennai showcase community spirit through creative idols and eco-friendly themes. Visiting these cities during the festival offers an unforgettable mix of spirituality, culture, and festive grandeur. |
Highlights
|
Exciting Bengaluru Getaways – Pick Yours Now!
We are excited to bring you a selection of customised trips, perfect for exploring the rich heritage and history around Bengaluru:
We would love to hear from you! Write to us at [email protected] and let us know:
Let’s plan your perfect heritage experience together! |
 |
Upcoming Events
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Latest Travel News That You Must Know
|
Watch This Video
 |
If you would like to be featured in our upcoming newsletter or have any questions, please email us at: [email protected]
Warm regards
Sandy & Vyjay
Website | Facebook | X | Instagram
Youtube | LinkedIn | Pinterest | WhatsApp
© 2025 Voyager – Sandy & Vyjay All rights reserved.