(Managing Director, Carmelia Haven Resort | Partner, Spice Routes Luxury Cruises)
Today, May 14, 2025, marks the first death anniversary of our dear friend and tourism industry colleague, Scaria Jose—a vibrant and visionary entrepreneur who left us far too soon at the age of 43.
Scaria was the Managing Director of Carmelia Haven Resort in Vandanmedu (near Thekkady) and a Partner at Spice Routes Luxury Houseboats in Alappuzha. He also served as the former Treasurer of the Kerala Travel Mart Society, where his contributions were deeply valued. His sudden passing on the morning of May 14, 2024, at his residence in Nedumkandam, shocked and saddened the tourism community in Kerala and beyond.
Though Scaria was not one of my closest confidants, he was always a favorite colleague—young, dynamic, deeply committed to the growth of Kerala’s tourism industry, and remarkably grounded. I had known his father since 1998, the year we launched “Tourism India”. Carmelia Haven was one of our earliest clients. Back then, his father was passionately building one of South India’s first plantation resorts. Sadly, he too passed away unexpectedly while still shaping his dream.
When Scaria took the reins, he carried forward that legacy with maturity well beyond his years, enhancing infrastructure, raising service standards, and elevating Carmelia Haven to new heights with quiet determination and strategic clarity.
His vision extended beyond the hills of Idukki. Drawing inspiration from his maternal roots in Champakulam, the heart of the Kuttanad backwaters, he disrupted the luxury segment of houseboat tourism through Spice Routes Luxury Cruises, a venture he founded with his close friend and relative, Mr. Jobin Joseph Akkarkkalam. Under their leadership, Spice Routes welcomed elite global guests, including King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands—a proud moment for Kerala’s backwater tourism.
According to Mr. Jobin Jose, Scaria’s partner and close relative, “Our professional relationship turned into a heartfelt partnership when we started Akkarakalam Memoirs in 2007, eventually leading to the creation of Spice Routes. July 7, 2007 (07/07/07)—the date we launched together—became a personal milestone for us. Every year, we exchanged wishes on that day. Last year, he had promised to call me this year. That call will never come, and that silence hurts more than words can say.”
Scaria was not only a successful entrepreneur but also a fine human being—calm, compassionate, humble, and deeply respectful to colleagues, staff, and partners alike. He was a hands-on leader who worked closely with his team and never hesitated to go the extra mile, even for the smallest tour operator or client.
One incident shared by my industry friend Mr. Nirmal Iype comes to mind: When Carmelia was first building its iconic Treehouse, a construction delay threatened a booking. Upon hearing about it, Scaria personally ensured the project was completed within three days, at twice the cost if needed—all to honor a promise and maintain trust. That was Scaria: dependable, thoughtful, and ever-committed.
Scaria’s roots were as strong as his vision. The Kailasapara Estate in Nedumkandam, owned by the Njavallil family since 1963, remains one of the largest cardamom plantations in the region. His passion for the land and commitment to sustainable tourism were instilled by his father, and he honored those values with elegance and innovation.
Scaria leaves behind his beloved young son, Joshua Jose Scaria, and a legacy that continues to inspire all of us in the tourism industry. The outpouring of love and tributes from friends, colleagues, and family over the past year is a testament to the life he lived and the hearts he touched.
Today, we remember Kariyappi not just for his professional achievements but for the warmth, laughter, and sincerity he brought into our lives. His absence is deeply felt, and his memory is forever cherished.
Rest in peace, dear Scaria.
Your journey was short, but your impact was immense.
You will always be remembered, always be missed, and always be loved.
By Ravisankar K.V, Tourism India
