Planning a trip to Kerala? You may have to spend a few grand to get happy high!

It seems people in Kerala may soon be celebrating a dry Christmas and New Year every year now. The Supreme Court has upheld the state’s new excise policy and has allowed only 5-star hotels to serve alcohol in the state!

But this news hasn’t gone down well with many, especially the tourism players, who feel that such a move will deter people from visiting this place. “When someone decides a vacation, they want to enjoy without any restriction. And Goa and Kerala are considered to be ‘cool’ places to visit during this time of the year,” said tour operators.

But a move such as banning alcohol in regular restaurants, which includes budget hotels, will negatively impact the state’s tourist-friendly image. It must be noted that Kerala is looked upon as forward-looking state in India. Foreign tourists often find the place very tourist friendly but SC’s decision will prove to be a definitely a dampener to the festive spirit of the state.

Besides, a tourist will have to shell out a bomb every time he drinks is not a feasible idea. And this would be preceded by long waiting hours!

Sadly, the new policy doesn’t end here. The government intends to completely phase out consumption of alcohol in the state in the next 10 years. The industry players will have to wait to see how the decision dents the arrival numbers as well as the revenue clocked in by the sector.

And if this continues, then the day won’t be far when you will have to imagine your trip to the backwaters sans your favourite pint of beer!

Image: Indiatimes.com