Category: Travel

Travel

Global Village Dubai Announces Dates for Landmark 30th Season

allycaralgoa

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.

Travel

GTDC Signs MoU with NFSU to Host Cyber Commando Training at Farmagudi Residency

Tanisha Cardozo

In a progressive step blending national interest with innovative tourism infrastructure usage, the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) to host Cyber Commando Training Programs at the Farmagudi Residency in Ponda, Goa.

The formal signing took place in Panaji, with Prof. Naveen Kumar Chaudhary, Director of NFSU, and Shri Gavin Dias, General Manager (Marketing) Hotels, GTDC, executing the agreement. The ceremony was witnessed by key officials including Shri Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager (Marketing), GTDC, and Shri Sunder Lal Sharma, Deputy Registrar, NFSU. Following the event, the NFSU delegation met with Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, Chairman of GTDC, at Paryatan Bhavan to discuss the scope and impact of the partnership.

This MoU marks a significant milestone, not only by opening up GTDC’s Farmagudi Residency for a national security initiative but also by reinforcing the state’s “Goa Beyond Beaches” campaign. The initiative emphasizes developing the hinterland and promoting sustainable, diversified tourism experiences beyond Goa’s well-known coastline.

Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar expressed pride in the partnership, stating that this collaboration highlights how GTDC properties can serve national objectives while boosting regional tourism. He noted that the upcoming NFSU campus in his constituency would further strengthen these developments.

Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC, emphasized the innovative use of GTDC assets, underscoring the organization’s commitment to supporting initiatives of national importance and adapting its tourism offerings to new contexts.

Farmagudi Residency, the training venue, is situated in a peaceful, scenic location in Ponda, approximately 26 km from Panaji and 36 km from Dabolim Airport. The facility offers comfortable accommodations, landscaped gardens, and a tranquil atmosphere ideal for both intensive training and leisure.

This collaboration between GTDC and NFSU exemplifies the potential for public sector partnerships to align with national priorities while enhancing regional development and tourism. It represents a vision of integrated progress where infrastructure, education, and sustainable tourism go hand in hand.

Travel

Goa Tourism Showcases ‘Sunshine and More’ at OTDYKH Leisure 2025 in Moscow

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Tourism made an impressive and impactful presence at OTDYKH Leisure 2025, one of the world’s premier international travel and tourism exhibitions, held at the Timiryazev Exhibition Center in Moscow. With its vibrant and evolving theme, “Sunshine and More in Goa,” the state positioned itself as a year-round destination that offers far more than its celebrated coastline. This strategic showcase was aimed at enhancing Goa’s identity as a hub for sustainable tourism, cultural experiences, wellness retreats, and adventure activities.

The Goa delegation was led by Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, along with Shri Prasad Kavlekar, Senior Manager, Marketing at the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC). Their presence and engagement drew significant attention from international travel professionals, media, trade representatives, and potential partners. On the opening day, Shri Kedar Naik met with Shri Nikhilesh Giri, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of India in Moscow, deepening Goa’s collaborative ties and reinforcing its focus on global outreach and partnerships.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized that Goa’s presence at OTDYKH is about more than promotion — it’s about transformation. “Goa is moving beyond being just a beach destination. Through ‘Sunshine and More in Goa,’ we are showcasing the state’s evolving identity as a destination rooted in culture, wellness, adventure, and sustainability. Our participation here is about building deeper collaborations and ensuring that Goa remains a preferred choice for quality international travellers,” he stated.

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added that the enthusiastic response on Day 1 validated Goa’s strong recall among global tourists. The Pavilion highlighted regenerative tourism, responsible travel, and authentic experiences that benefit both visitors and local communities. Through a mix of multimedia installations, cultural storytelling, and trade dialogues, Goa showcased its renewed focus on preserving ecosystems, promoting mindful tourism, and empowering rural and coastal communities.

Visitors were offered an immersive experience of Goa’s varied offerings — from serene beachside retreats and luxury hospitality to hinterland adventures, wellness therapies, heritage walks, and culinary trails. The state’s commitment to responsible tourism was at the heart of the pavilion’s message.

As the OTDYKH Leisure 2025 exhibition continues until September 12, the Goa Tourism Pavilion is expected to host further B2B meetings, cultural presentations, and networking events, reinforcing the message that Goa is not just a holiday destination, but a state of mind — one that offers sunshine, soul, and so much more.

Travel

Oman Delegation Explores Goa’s Culture, Heritage, and Hospitality

Closed Account

Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

Goa Tourism recently hosted a distinguished delegation of influencers, travel agents, and partners from Oman on an exclusive three-day journey that brought together the best of Goa’s culture, heritage, and hospitality. This carefully curated visit was designed to deepen cultural ties and lay the foundation for future tourism collaborations between Goa and Oman, reflecting centuries of shared history and maritime exchange between the two regions.

The journey began with a warm welcome at The Yellow House, a charming heritage site that perfectly set the tone for what lay ahead. Here, the delegation was introduced to Goan warmth and hospitality over a traditional high tea, giving them their first taste of the state’s rich culinary and social traditions.

A guided heritage walk at the historic Aguad Port and Jail Complex followed, immersing guests in Goa’s layered past, colonial architecture, and stories that have shaped its identity. The experience provided a meaningful context to Goa beyond its beaches, spotlighting the state’s deep-rooted cultural significance.

Later, the delegation visited Devaaya in Malar, Divar, where a wholesome brunch was served amidst serene surroundings. The location is known for promoting holistic living and wellness rooted in Goan traditions — a growing appeal for international travelers seeking mindful travel experiences. A lively stroll through the local market introduced the guests to the vibrancy of everyday Goan life, with its riot of colors, spices, and friendly chatter.

The Honourable Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized the importance of the visit by stating, “Goa has shared longstanding cultural and historical ties with Oman, rooted in centuries of trade, exchange, and shared traditions.” Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, added, “This visit was an opportunity to showcase Goa’s diverse offerings and highlight Goa’s commitment to creating memorable experiences for visitors from Arabian countries.”

The visit culminated with a beachside dinner at Britto’s, one of Goa’s most iconic culinary landmarks, where the delegation savored Goan cuisine against the backdrop of a starlit coastline. Before departing, guests were taken to the historic Taj Heritage Village — a fitting close to a journey that celebrated heritage, hospitality, and future partnerships.

Travel

Goa Tourism’s Global Journey Continues with ‘Experience Goa’ Roadshow in Tashkent

Closed Account

Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, is set to host an exclusive ‘Experience Goa’ Roadshow in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, at the City Palace Tashkent on September 15, 2025. This initiative is part of Goa Tourism’s ongoing global outreach to showcase the state as a year-round travel destination rich in culture, heritage, and sustainable experiences.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, emphasized the importance of the event: “The Roadshow is an opportunity to engage directly with Tashkent’s travel trade and position Goa as a year-round destination. Our focus is to create lasting connections while presenting Goa’s authentic, memorable, and immersive experiences.”

Echoing this vision, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, said: “Goa is evolving as a destination that celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability. Through the Tashkent roadshow, we wish to showcase not just Goa’s scenic beauty, but also its heritage, wellness, festivals, and adventure. We look forward to building on this connectivity and welcoming more travelers to experience Goa in its truest essence.”

The roadshow is designed to present Goa as a vibrant, diverse, and sustainable destination, far beyond the stereotypical beach getaway. It will bring together tour operators, travel agents, airline partners, and dignitaries from across Uzbekistan and Central Asia. The showcase will feature Goa’s wide-ranging tourism offerings including heritage, culture, wellness retreats, immersive festivals, and eco-conscious adventure experiences.

One of the central themes of the event will be Goa Beyond Beaches, promoting lesser-known aspects of Goa’s tourism potential. The concept of Regenerative Tourism will also take center stage, with Goa Tourism focusing on environmentally responsible travel that supports local communities.

Attendees at the Tashkent roadshow will enjoy one-on-one interactions with Goa Tourism representatives and explore potential partnerships and collaborations. This outreach event signifies another milestone in Goa’s effort to build meaningful global connections and welcome the world to explore its unique blend of tradition, nature, and innovation in tourism.