JEDDAH, 24 July — The NRI Escape is the theme of a new package to promote southern Indian state of Kerala, which is now recognized among the 50 world tourist destinations. Organized jointly by Golden Waters, Kumarakom, Kerala, and national carrier Air-India (A-I), the promotion, which continues up to Sept. 30, is essentially aimed at the large non-resident Indian (NRI) community in this part of the world. A three days-two nights NRI holiday package at a five star resort, Golden Waters, Kumarakom, costs $120 inclusive of stay, all meals and taxes. “A-I has attractive fares for Kerala, and it operates a nonstop flight once a week from Jeddah to Calicut and another from Dhahran to Trivandrum. Plus we’ve convenient connections to Cochin, Trivandrum and Calicut on all days from Jeddah,” S.M. Mazharullah, A-I manager for the Western province, said. Golden Waters is a waterfront resort, which nestles in the backwaters of Kerala. It is currently one of the ‘must see’ destinations listed by National Geographic. Nature’s beauty, entertainment, and a relaxing session at Vaidyasala – the Ayurvedic healing center, are among its attractions. (KSR)
Marriott’s ME summer specials
JEDDAH, 24 July — Marriott International is offering a number of exciting summer promotions on its range of Middle East hotels. Jeddah Marriott and Doha Marriott in the Gulf have great summer offers. Jeddah Marriott has actually halved its rates. So instead of SR500 plus, a single room costs only SR250 until Aug. 31. A deluxe double room costs SR325 plus. Two children under 12 can stay free and also eat free. A minimum two nights stay is however required. Doha Marriott is offering rooms with a special weekend escape package. The offer is valid until Sept. 15. In Egypt, Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada Marriott beach resorts offer seaview rooms for as low as $70 right up to Sept. 30. The Cairo Marriott is offering rooms for $125. “Spend five nights there and get the sixth one free” is also part of the promotion. Beirut Marriott’s summer rates start at $89 plus and run until Sept. 15. The Amman Marriott has an offer with reduced rates. (AN)
