Mexicans' day out in Rajasthan

JAIPUR: For the first time, tourism in the state is moving beyond clich' itineraries and tours, with a group of 33 adventure tourists from Mexico chosing Rajasthan as their destination.
Driving 4'4 vehicles through select destinations, the Gij Mario Special 4'4 Group flagged off by Jaime Nualart, ambassador of Mexico to India, at a reception in Delhi on April 18 is also filming a travelogue to be shown back home in a special screening.
"Led by Mario Esparza, the group of 33 Mexican tourists will be undertaking a 4'4 off and on road journey during a weeklong tour of Rajasthan that will cover Jaipur, Shekhawati, Gajner and Ranthambore in 23 vehicles. Every year, they travel to one destination. This year it is Rajasthan," said Khalid Khan, executive director of Le Passage to India, who flagged off the rally from Jaipur.
The tourists have been provided with an escort and staff for emergency, Khan said. All through their stay in the state, they have opted for heritage hotels.
"We are certain that this trip will generate great interest and awareness for India and Rajasthan in Mexico, as they will film the trip and promote the sights and vibrant culture of the state," said Khan, who organised the trip through a subsidiary Go India Journeys'.
Leader of the group Esparza said, "Taking a road trip around Rajasthan is probably about as far as you can get from taking a road trip elsewhere. The roads are narrow and winding but wide and clear on the highways and the undulating dunes juxtaposed against the colourful attires women wear are fascinating."
Driving on your own is a great way to experience the cultural diversity and terrain of a country and travellers also get to stop over and visit all important monuments, Esparza said.
"The journey was a unique hands-on experience that inspired a personal connection with people and we carry back lovely memories," another member of the group said.
So far, tour operators in the state have had tourists groups opting for adventure tours and safaris but none have taken the wheels themselves. The new form of tourism here is however in sync with the present trends.
According to a Wall Street Journal report, "In a shift away from sun and sand' holidays, high-end travellers are consistently seeking trips that are rich in physical, educational and cultural factors and help them meet personal goals, as well as destinations that are Off the Beaten Track'."
Add to that authentic experiences in new destinations are going to be top motivation for travelling this year, it said. The report also reveals that value for money paid (79%) and once-in-a-lifetime experiences (57%) are top factors in choosing destinations, and 33.2% of active and adventure travels are predicted to be among the top five biggest trends of 2011.
"Adventure travel is a growing phenomenon but companies will need to have a genuine focus on sustainable business practices and authenticity to local cultures," feel experts.