Kohima, June 29 (MExN): A one-day workshop on homestay orientation for the citizens of Kigwema was held at Directorate of Tourism on June 29. Additional Director, Tourism, Akhale Vizol highlighted on the concept of Homestay and its importance. She said that a community in a locality can maintain the environment and make it attractive creating a tourist hot spot.
Chair, YouthNet, Hekani Jakhalu said that Homestay was a component to create employment, job opportunity and uplift the economy of the state since there is no private sector in our state. She also added that Homestay concept was to develop a village, town or city creating it a market avenue platform to sell their handicrafts, food, etc., and showcasing their natural beauty, farming system and their lifestyle. She added that Kigwema village can become a role model for Homestay in the global map of tourism.
Regional Operation for North and North East, Dishant Bhasin and Public Policy Consultant, Surya Sadasivan from Air B&B said that the Air B&B is an online global network where travelers book their stay at Homestay from anywhere around the globe and have expanded their business in 191 countries and 81,000 cities. In NE India Air B&B has partnership with NEC and NETDC. They also said that foreign travelers prefer Homestay rather than hotels as they wanted to explore and experience the culture of the locals and their lifestyle. Air B&B also helps to promote tourism of a state and create marketing of their local products. To be a part of Air B&B one can upload the photos of the place and their home on the website which can be book online.
Short speeches were delivered by GM, Dovipie Inn, Neikedolie Hiekha on Ecotourism, Khietono Yhoshu of Southview Home, Deputy Director Tourism, Veyielo Doulo on Homestay-a tool for Sustainable Tourism and Joint Director, AjanuoBelho on Registration/Tourist Trade Act.
