Having witnessed the evolution of the travel industry from a young age, Karim is carrying the legacy forward with a strong focus on expansion and a modern business mindset. In an exclusive chat with BOTT, he speaks about his journey, aspirations, experiences and more.
Shreya Shimpi
Looking back on your journey so far, what inspired you to enter the travel industry, and how has it shaped you as a professional?
I have always been a part of the travel industry since I was born. I have had the opportunity to witness my father’s remarkable journey over the last four to five decades, and he has been one of the key figures in the travel trade. Having seen the evolution of the industry, I was always fascinated to be a part of it. Although I began my career as a pilot, I did not pursue it further, as the plan was to eventually return to the business. I completed a two-year programme called ‘Family Managed Business’, designed for students from such backgrounds, after which I joined our company in 2011.
Reflecting on 2025, what would you say were the three highlights of the year for you, personally or professionally?
We changed two offices, and we are currently in the process of expansion. It has been a tough year for the travel trade, given the geopolitical disruptions, the war and other challenges, but we managed to sail through, and we are here today with a bigger team.
What has been your proudest achievement to date, and what keeps you motivated to push boundaries in this industry?
I believe our biggest milestone is still ahead of us. We are growing, increasing our distribution space in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, and expanding our footprint in North, Northeast and Northwest India. We now have a larger sales force to support this growth.
The travel industry is on the cusp of tremendous growth. Given its demographics, population and rising purchasing power, India is a key source market for many countries. Hence, the potential and the opportunities ahead keep me motivated. Also, the way my industry peers are growing serves as a source of inspiration for me. We aspire to be one of the largest travel distributors in the country.
If you could pick one dream destination to visit in 2025, where would it be, and why does it captivate you?
The rich history and ancient civilisation of Greece have always fascinated me, and I look forward to visiting it this year.
Could you tell us a bit about your family and share one cherished childhood memory that still makes you smile?
I am married and blessed with a seven-year-old child. My parents and I stay in the same building. I have two younger sisters—one is married, works at Amazon and is settled in the US, while the other is completing her academics. Being a Keralite, some of my fondest childhood memories are rooted in Kerala. Our vacations used to be big family gatherings, and those are moments I continue to cherish.
Kerala is also an incredible destination, offering lush greenery, beaches, backwaters, hill stations, wildlife and a lot more. It has every kind of experience, making it one of the best tourist destinations in India. I love that place and feel very connected to it.
QUICK SHOTS
Your Birthday / Sun Sign: March 26, Aries
Mountains or Beaches: Beaches
Favourite Holiday Destination: My native place, Kerala
Best travel hack: Carrying a universal travel adaptor while travelling
Window / Aisle seat: Aisle
Favourite Cuisine: Thai
Best advice for a first-time traveller: Quality over quantity, especially for Indian travellers, since they often want to cover many places in a short duration and end up missing out on experiences.
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