Goa International Airport, Dabolim, will join the nationwide observance of ‘Yatri Sewa Diwas 2025’ on 17th September, reaffirming its commitment to passenger convenience, cultural integration, and community engagement.
Handling nearly 7.5 million passengers annually, the airport is jointly managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Indian Navy. Known for its safety standards, operational efficiency, and traveler-friendly services, Goa Airport continues to innovate for both domestic and international flyers.
Highlights of Yatri Sewa Diwas 2025:
🌸 Traditional Welcome: Arrival passengers greeted with Tika for a warm Goan touch.
🌱 Tree Plantation Drive: Senior citizen passengers participating in an eco-friendly initiative.
🎶 Goan Folk Dances: Cultural showcases at the arrival hall during peak hours.
🎨 Painting Competitions: Engaging child passengers and Kendriya Vidyalaya students with themes ‘Save Environment’ and ‘Viman Yatra’.
📸 Photo Booths: Selfie zones at arrivals and departures for lasting memories.
🩸 Blood Donation Camp: Organized for staff with the Government District Hospital.
🩺 Free Health Check-Up Desk: Managed by Manipal Hospitals for passengers.
👀 Free Eye Check-Up for Taxi Drivers: In coordination with Victor Hospital.
🎓 Career Guidance Programme: At Kendriya Vidyalaya-1, focused on aviation sector opportunities.
📝 Passenger Feedback Drive: Pamphlets distributed to collect valuable insights for further service enhancement.
The Airport Director stated:
“The observance of Yatri Sewa Diwas is a testament to our sustained focus on passenger facilitation and our responsibility to local communities. These initiatives underscore our holistic approach to service excellence and community involvement.”
Goa International Airport invites all passengers, students, and community members to participate and celebrate this day, reflecting its ongoing mission to elevate travel experiences and strengthen passenger engagement.
Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral
For 25 years, Festacar was my way of giving back to Goa — a festival that brought communities together, celebrating our culture and grassroots traditions. But after a quarter of a century, I felt the need to pause, to celebrate in a different way. That pause led me aboard the MSC Virtuosa, a floating city of lights, music, and discovery.
The ship itself was a marvel. Its glowing LED-domed promenade, buzzing cafés, and vast decks became my sanctuary. For the first time in years, I wasn’t planning, coordinating, or giving. I was simply letting the sea carry me.
Our first stop was La Coruña, Spain. The city greeted me with a rare blend of history and vibrancy. Standing before the Tower of Hercules, the world’s oldest functioning lighthouse, I felt the weight of centuries. Like Goa’s own traditions, this lighthouse has endured — steady, timeless, and unyielding.
In the Old Town, I wandered through cobblestone streets lined with glass-fronted Galician houses. I stopped for pulpo a la gallega — octopus dressed with olive oil and paprika. Simple, rustic, yet profound. Much like Goa’s food, it carried the soul of its land and people.
The journey then took me inland to Santiago de Compostela, the final destination for countless pilgrims walking the Camino. Watching them arrive at the cathedral — weary yet radiant with joy — was deeply moving. Their faces held exhaustion, meaning, and triumph. Inside, the cathedral’s golden altars shimmered with centuries of devotion, filling me with an unexpected peace.
Later, I walked along Riazor Beach. The Atlantic breeze washed over me, and I realized: after years of giving through Festacar, this was my time to receive. The ocean, the culture, the people, and the stories were now filling me with renewal.
As the Virtuosa sailed away that evening, I carried with me more than memories of Galicia. I carried the reminder that travel is not only about discovering new places, but also about rediscovering ourselves.
In the lead-up to World Tourism Day 2025 on September 27, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has launched an ambitious month-long celebration in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), SKAL International Goa, and the Yuva Tourism Clubs across the state. This comprehensive series of activities reflects Goa’s progressive vision for sustainable, inclusive, and experiential tourism.
The month of September has been transformed into a canvas for immersive, localised experiences that showcase the state’s rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, culinary traditions, and community spirit. These efforts are part of Goa’s broader commitment to regenerative tourism, where travel experiences are designed not just to entertain but to positively impact both visitors and host communities.
Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, noted that the initiative aims to showcase Goa as a year-round destination with authentic experiences. He emphasized the role of youth in driving this change, highlighting the Yuva Tourism Club’s involvement in fostering a culture of responsible travel. Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, reiterated the state’s holistic approach — blending heritage, nature, gastronomy, and inclusive events — to create a vibrant and future-ready tourism landscape.
The public is invited to take part in a variety of curated experiences such as a Bioluminescence Forest Walk, Cruise & Kayaking Trail, Folgar forest picnics, heritage walks at Monte Santo and Aguad, and traditional bread-making workshops. A visit to the Mulgao Folk Village will immerse participants in local customs, music and coconut farming techniques. Each activity is designed to engage both tourists and residents, creating opportunities for shared discovery and cultural exchange.
At the heart of the celebration is youth engagement. Through the Yuva Tourism Club, these experiences are being introduced to students in schools and colleges across Goa to raise awareness about sustainability and instill pride in local culture. The calendar includes a biodiversity walk at Carambolim Lake, electric cycle tours, and hands-on culinary activities that allow students to engage with Goa’s unique ecological and culinary identity.
Culinary enthusiasts can look forward to cooking competitions hosted at IIHM Goa and IHM Goa on various dates, inviting participants to explore the depth and diversity of Goan cuisine. These events aim to bridge traditional food knowledge with modern gastronomy, sparking creativity and cultural appreciation among the youth.
In a significant move toward inclusive tourism, the Department of Tourism will host two special boat cruises — one on September 26 for persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and children from orphanages, and another on September 27 dedicated to special children from Rotary institutions. These events underscore Goa’s commitment to making tourism accessible to all, irrespective of age or ability.
On World Tourism Day, September 27, the state will also host its largest Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa. The event will feature the presentation of the Vincent Ramos Scholarship and a key announcement — the launch of Goa’s dedicated MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) Promotion Bureau, a strategic move to position the state as a premier destination for business tourism.
The celebrations will conclude on September 28 with a special one-day Film Festival at the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), showcasing heritage-themed films that focus on sustainability, community engagement, and conservation.
This year’s World Tourism Day theme in Goa is not just about attracting tourists — it’s about reimagining what tourism can mean for local communities, the environment, and future generations. The Department of Tourism invites everyone — residents, students, visitors, and stakeholders — to experience Goa through a fresh, immersive, and meaningful lens.
Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral
Goa was conferred with the Special Editorial Award for ‘Promoting Tourism through Festivals’ by The Week. The recognition underscores the state’s commitment to promoting its vibrant cultural heritage and rich festival traditions as a cornerstone of its tourism strategy. Goa has long been celebrated for its beautiful beaches, but this award shines a light on the state’s efforts to go beyond its coastal appeal and establish itself as a dynamic cultural destination.
The award recognizes the role of festivals—spanning traditional, religious, and community-based events—in enriching the visitor experience and adding a unique dimension to Goa’s tourism offerings. From carnival parades to spiritual celebrations, Goa’s diverse cultural calendar has become an essential part of the state’s identity.
Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, expressed pride in the recognition, stating, “This award highlights the collective efforts of the Department of Tourism and the people of Goa in promoting Goa’s unique identity through its festivals.” His remarks emphasize the collaborative spirit between the government and the community in positioning Goa as a culturally rich and welcoming destination.
Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, also acknowledged the honour, saying, “We were deeply honoured that Goa was recognised by The Week for its commitment to promoting tourism through festivals. Our festivals reflected the diversity, unity, and cultural richness of the state. This recognition reinforced our vision of taking Goa beyond beaches. Such acknowledgements inspired us to continue creating avenues where culture and tourism work together for the benefit of our people and visitors alike.”
This recognition from The Week not only validates the innovative approach taken by Goa Tourism but also sets a precedent for other regions looking to integrate cultural preservation with sustainable tourism development. As Goa continues to evolve as a cultural hub, its festivals remain a powerful expression of its heritage and a meaningful way to connect with both residents and travellers from across the globe.
Dubai’s multicultural family destination, Global Village, has confirmed the launch of its 30th season, which will run from October 15, 2025, to May 10, 2026.
The announcement follows the record-breaking success of Season 29, which drew an impressive 10.5 million visitors, the highest in its history.
A Milestone Year
This season is particularly significant as Global Village marks three decades since its inception. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the most popular cultural, entertainment, and retail hubs in the region. From pavilions representing different countries to international dining and live shows, Global Village continues to offer a unique experience for locals and tourists alike.
What to Expect in Season 30
While organizers say more details will be revealed closer to the launch, expectations are high for special programming designed to commemorate the milestone. Visitors can look forward to:
New cultural and entertainment highlights
Expanded food and retail options
Exclusive anniversary experiences across the park
Global Village is best known for offering a blend of global traditions, shopping, food, and performances in a festive outdoor setting. It has consistently attracted millions of visitors each year, making it a must-visit attraction on Dubai’s event calendar.
As it prepares for its 30th season, Global Village promises to raise the bar even higher, delivering unforgettable memories for families, tourists, and culture enthusiasts alike.
