Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government has started a bidding game called “Holiday Heist” as part of a new initiative to draw tourists to the state.
Vacation packages are available in the game at a significant discount.

Participants who bid effectively and creatively could win a trip to Kerala. This novel strategy aims to grow the travel and tourism industry and draw both domestic and foreign tourists.

According to a press release from the state tourism office, “Powered by WhatsApp, this unique game offers a thrilling bidding experience where the winners can actually steal tour packages showcasing Kerala’s globally acclaimed captivating destinations.”Holiday Heist is a cutting-edge tool that we’ve unlocked to reimagine tour package promotions while encouraging strategic thinking, imagination, and a sense of adventure. “Stealing a package doesn’t just require placing high bids; it also requires placing unusually low bids! The release quotes Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas as saying, “As the exclusive WhatsApp campaign by Kerala Tourism, it also marks a historic milestone for tourism departments in the country.

Through Maya, the game’s official WhatsApp chatbot, it is introduced. In contrast to standard auctions, this game places a premium on strategic thinking and creativity to highlight each player’s individual style. Maya is a well-liked platform among users, boasting over 1.5 lakh contacts and 3 lakh ongoing conversations.

Through clever bidding, the game offers daily tour packages for 30 days, giving players a chance to win. Users are able to participate in the game all month long thanks to new opportunities that arise every day.
The online auction game received 50,000 bids on its first day, which was sensational, and the lucky winners were able to purchase packages worth Rs 30,000 for only Rs 5. Players simply need to choose the package of the day to begin bidding and send Maya the message “Holiday Heist” to get started. Every day after 3:00 PM, the winning bid is announced.
Source- onmanorama
Link- https://www.onmanorama.com/travel/travel-news/2023/07/23/kerala-tourism-social-media-bidding-game.amp.html