Category: #TravelwithAllycaral 👒

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Goa Beaches to Now Have Demarcated Zones for Safe Swimming: Drishti Marine 

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~ Safe swim zones have been divided into three categories: for families, men and women.
~ 40 safe swim zones have already been demarcated across 10 popular beaches; 25 more swim zones to be created soon. Goa to feature 100+ swim zones during peak season

Panaji, April 2025 — To enhance beach safety, Drishti Marine, the state government-appointed lifesaving agency, is in the process of demarcating 65 swim zones (SZs) along Goa’s popular beaches, with 40 already in place across 10 beaches, including the Calangute, Baga, Arambol and Colva stretches. The state to feature 100+ swim zones during peak season.

The initiative aims to create clearly designated swimming areas, reducing risks posed by strong currents, streamline movement of water sports vehicles and for better vigilance and monitoring of swimmers. 

Swim zones have been set up at ten beaches: Arambol, Morjim, Baga, Calangute, Miramar, Baina, Bogmalo, Colva, Baga-2 and Ashvem. Each zone features partition moorings to ensure clear demarcation for safe swimming.Proper signage will be installed at all swim zone sites for clarity.

Currently, a total of 40 swim zones have been established, each divided into three separate demarcated areas (depending on the quantum of footfalls received): one each for families, men and one dedicated exclusively to women. 

“Additional safety measures include the installation of speakers to provide real-time safety announcements and warnings. Water sports activities are prohibited in these swim zones in order to prevent any potential mishap. In case of rough sea conditions, red flags are erected to denote that beach swimming is not allowed,” said Navin Awasthi, CEO of Drishti Marine. Public announcement systems have been installed at Miramar, Bogmalo, Colva and Baga beaches.

Awasthi also noted that the concept of a dedicated women’s swim zone was introduced in order to ensure additional safety and comfort of women on the beaches. “Everyone should have a safe and enjoyable experience while visiting Goa’s beaches and stepping into the water for a swim,” he added. 

Plans are underway to further strengthen safety measures with the introduction of 25 additional swim zones along other beaches. Over 100+ swim zones will be erected during the peak season. These initiatives align with Drishti Marine’s ongoing efforts to enhance coastal safety and ensure a secure environment for beachgoers, reinforcing Goa’s commitment to responsible tourism and public safety.

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Air India Express Expands Global Reach: Direct Flights from Goa to Kuwait City and Abu Dhabi

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In a significant development for travelers in Goa, Air India Express (AIX) has announced the launch of direct flights from Manohar International Airport (GOX) to Kuwait City and Abu Dhabi. This expansion marks a new chapter in the airline’s commitment to providing convenient and accessible air travel options to passengers.

Kuwait City Route

The direct flight from Goa to Kuwait City is set to commence on May 3, 2025. Key details include:

  • Flight IX273 will depart from GOX every Saturday at 6:05 pm and every Thursday at 4:40 pm, arriving in Kuwait City at 8:05 pm and 6:40 pm respectively.
  • The return flight, IX274, will depart Kuwait City at 9:05 pm on Saturdays and 7:40 pm on Thursdays, arriving in GOX at 4:05 am on Sundays and 2:40 am on Fridays.

Abu Dhabi Route

The direct flight from Goa to Abu Dhabi is scheduled to start on May 5, 2025. Key details include:

  • Flight IX271 will depart from GOX every Monday and Tuesday at 1:15 pm, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 3:20 pm.
  • The return flight, IX272, will depart Abu Dhabi at 4:20 pm, arriving in GOX at 9:20 pm.

Aircraft and Operational Details

Both routes will be operated using modern Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, known for their efficiency and passenger comfort. This move is expected to enhance connectivity for passengers traveling between Goa and the Middle East, facilitating easier access for business, leisure, and family visits.

Implications for Passengers

The introduction of these direct flights is poised to benefit a wide range of travelers, including:

  • Business professionals looking for convenient travel options to Kuwait City and Abu Dhabi.
  • Tourists seeking direct access to the cultural and historical attractions of the Middle East.
  • Families and individuals visiting loved ones in the region.

The launch of direct flights from Goa to Kuwait City and Abu Dhabi by Air India Express is a significant step towards enhancing global connectivity and convenience for travelers. With its commitment to providing efficient and comfortable air travel, Air India Express continues to be a preferred choice for passengers.

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Goa Tourism Expands Global Footprint with Engaging Roadshow in Doha

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Goa, April 12, 2025: Goa Tourism, Government of Goa, successfully concluded its Tourism Roadshow in Doha, Qatar, on April 9, 2025.a The event witnessed an overwhelming response from key stakeholders in the travel and hospitality industry, further strengthening Goa’s position as a preferred travel destination.


Held at Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha, State of Qatar, the roadshow provided a valuable platform for networking and collaboration, fostering new partnerships to enhance tourism opportunities in Goa. Travel industry professionals, dignitaries, and potential visitors engaged in fruitful discussions about Goa’s unique tourism offerings.
The highlight of the event was the ‘Goa Evening’, an enchanting cultural showcase that left the audience captivated. The evening featured vibrant folk-dance performances, an insightful destination presentation, and an exclusive film showcasing Goa’s diverse tourism experiences. Attendees had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich heritage, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality that define Goa.

Key dignitaries, including the H.E. Ambassador of India to Qatar, Shri Vipul addressed the gathering, emphasizing Goa’s potential as a global tourism hub and inviting more travellers from Qatar to explore the state’s unparalleled beauty.

On this occasion, Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte conveyed his message saying, “Goa is evolving into a year-round, premium destination that offers far more than its iconic beaches. Through this roadshow in Qatar, we aim to showcase Goa’s rich spiritual heritage, vibrant hinterlands, and thriving adventure and MICE segments. From tranquil temple trails and heritage villages to world-class venues and immersive experiences, Goa is where tradition meets modern aspiration—inviting travellers from the Middle East to discover Goa beyond the beaches.”

Addressing the audience at the Goa Tourism roadshow, H.E. Ambassador of India to Qatar, Shri Vipul highlighted the strong people-to-people ties between India and Qatar which are also seen in robust tourism flows between the two countries. Indians are among the top travellers to Qatar and India has always been a top tourism destination for Qatar whether for leisure, shopping, health, adventure, etc. Goa has also emerged a favourite destination for travellers from Qatar who enjoy its beaches, cuisine and cultural offerings. The Goa roadshow should further enhance tourism from Qatar to the beautiful state.
Shri Kedar Naik, Director Tourism, opined that, “Goa’s charm lies in its seamless blend of heritage, culture, and natural beauty, making it a destination like no other. The enthusiastic response at the Doha Roadshow reaffirms the growing interest in Goa among international travellers. We are committed to strengthening our global partnerships and enhancing visitor experiences, ensuring that every traveller to Goa discovers something truly special.”

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), stated, “Goa is more than just a destination; it is an experience that blends natural beauty, rich heritage, and warm hospitality. Through this roadshow, we are delighted to bring a glimpse of Goa to Qatar and strengthen our bonds with the travel industry here. We welcome travellers from Qatar to explore Goa and immerse themselves in its vibrant culture and diverse offerings.”

The Goa Tourism Roadshow in Doha is part of a broader initiative to engage with international markets and increase global visitor interest. By fostering direct interactions with travel agents, tour operators, and potential travellers, Goa Tourism aims to drive more inbound tourism and establish long-term collaborations with Qatar’s travel industry. Goa Tourism extends its gratitude to all participants, dignitaries, and travel industry stakeholders who contributed to the event’s success. With the positive response received, Goa looks forward to welcoming more visitors from Qatar and beyond.

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First Vande Bharat Train Between Katra And Srinagar To Be Launched By PM Modi This Month

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Kashmir is set to get its first Vande Bharat express later this month with the launch of the Katra-Srinagar service on the recently completed Udampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL). The first-ever Vande Bharat to Kashmir will be reportedly inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 19 April.

The inauguration from Katra will be the culmination of a several decades journey to provide rail connectivity between the Valley and the rest of the country.

The ceremony will be attended by Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister Jitendra Singh, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, J&K CM Omar Abdullah, and other dignitaries.

Currently, train services in Kashmir run only between Baramulla and Sangaldan, with long-distance trains ending at Katra.

The new Vande Bharat will fill this gap, running from Katra to Srinagar/Baramulla, enabling commuters to travel directly to Kashmir by train for the first time.

The service will be extended to Jammu once station work is done.

The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express aims to boost tourism and provide a reliable travel option for both locals and visitors in the region.

The train is one of the components of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, a large infrastructure project to improve connectivity in the region. The rail link is 272 km long.

The train will operate on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), covering a distance of over 150 km between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) station and Srinagar station in around 2 hours and 30 minutes.

A standout feature of this route is the Chenab Bridge, the highest railway bridge in the world, a symbol of India’s engineering might.

Prior to the official inauguration, Prime Minister Modi will visit the iconic Chenab Bridge located in Reasi district.

After inspecting the bridge, the Prime Minister will go to Katra to dedicate the train service and speak at a public meeting.

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Delhi Airport Chaos: 205 Flights Delayed, Departures Run an Hour Late After Dust Storm

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A severe dust storm swept through Delhi, causing widespread disruptions at the Indira Gandhi International Airport. The extreme weather conditions led to significant flight delays and diversions, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded and frustrated.

Flight Disruptions
At least 205 flights were delayed, with an average departure delay of one hour. Additionally, around 50 flights were diverted from their scheduled destinations, further exacerbating the chaos. Airlines such as Air India and IndiGo issued advisories to passengers, but the measures did little to alleviate the inconvenience.

Passenger Ordeals
Many passengers shared their harrowing experiences, detailing the extensive delays and logistical challenges they faced. One passenger on an Air India flight from Srinagar to Mumbai via Delhi recounted:

  • The flight was diverted to Chandigarh due to the dust storm and later returned to Delhi at 11 pm.
  • Passengers were then asked to board another flight to Mumbai at 12 am, only to wait in the aircraft for four hours before being deboarded and forced to undergo security checks again.
  • As of 8 am, the flight had still not taken off, leaving passengers stranded for over 12 hours.

A 75-year-old wheelchair-bound woman on the same flight expressed her distress, stating that she had been waiting at the airport since 11 pm, unable to land in Delhi due to the storm.

Airport Response
Airport officials acknowledged the chaos, attributing it to the diversion and cancellation of flights. The surge in passengers at the airport led to congestion and further delays.


The severe dust storm and resulting flight disruptions have highlighted the challenges faced by airports in managing extreme weather conditions. As the situation continues to unfold, passengers are advised to stay informed about flight status and plan accordingly.