We firmly believe in fair trade and Kerala Connections has had a Fair Trade Policy since the company was formed in 1998. Our Fair Trade initiatives include:

• We do not have ‘exclusive agreements’ with hotels and do not block book rooms. Rooms are booked on a first come, first served basis. This means that the hotels are free to market their properties in the way that suits them best.
   
• We pay all our associates promptly. This is unusual in India and much appreciated by everyone we work with. This prompt payment means that our bookings are favoured at busy times.
   
• Where possible we book the hotels on a bed and breakfast basis. This gives our customers the opportunity to eat elsewhere which may include small local restaurants. In this way your money goes directly to the provider.
   
• Our drivers have a contract and are paid a monthly wage. This is very unusual in South India where the normal practice is to pay drivers commission only and therefore only earn during the season.
   
• There are a number of retailers who pay tour operators to take customers to their shops. This is unfair, both to the customers (who pay a premium for their purchases to cover the commission) and to other local traders. We do not approve of such practices and do not participate.
   
• We strive to keep our overheads down in order to provide our customers with competitive prices.