Mr. Mohammed A. Rizvi

A beaming and cheerful personality is what makes Mr. Mohammed A. Rizvi truly a class act in his profession as a travel and tour operator. During his visit to Kerala we came across Mr. Rizvi in Kochi where he shared with us some of his intimate thoughts about Kerala as a tourist destination with a difference. Mr. Rizvi runs his own travel and tour company called Classy Travel & Tours based in New York, U.S.A.

The first and foremost feel that he had on Kerala as a tourist destination is the fact that, it is an excellent spot for relaxation and peace. This, he attributes to the unique cultural and traditional ambiance of Kerala, which is by far a unique experience to him, and believes that his clients, especially those from the U.S.A. would find it highly interesting. Mr. Rizvi reckons the cultural and traditional fabric of Kerala as the most powerful entities, next to its natural attractions, which would play a key role in brining more travelers to Kerala in future. He was also highly appreciative of the kind of efforts taken by the tourism authorities in Kerala for promoting the State as a destination with many unique attractions. But the first and foremost attraction in Kerala, as far as Mr. Rizvi is concerned is the people. His experience with local people of the State in his words was “too good”. People are so sweet and humble, and this he feels has contributed significantly in transforming Kerala into an excellent spot for tourism. This quality of the local people is priceless, just like the State's culture, traditions and history. In short “it is a wonderland” says Mr. Rizvi. Sharing his thoughts on people, Mr. Rizvi recalled one incident in Kochi, where he was allowed to try his hand at fishing using the Chinese net. Mr. Rizvi says that after trying his skill with the Chinese fishing net, the local man who allowed him to do so did not bother to ask for tip, which he otherwise anticipated to happen.