Tag: Goa Destinations

Travel

Booking.com Traveller Review Awards 2026: Goa Among India’s Most Welcoming Regions

Tanisha Cardozo

Booking.com has recognised Goa among the 10 Most Welcoming Regions in India as part of its 14th annual Traveller Review Awards 2026, reaffirming the State’s enduring appeal as a warm and hospitable destination. The global travel platform, known for connecting travellers with accommodation and transport services worldwide, bases the awards on the share of accommodation partners earning a Traveller Review Award for delivering authentic and caring guest experiences.

This year, Goa has retained its position among India’s most welcoming regions, while Mandrem has emerged as one of the top 10 Most Welcoming Destinations in the country. Other welcoming destinations within Goa highlighted for their hospitality include Agonda, Palolem, Arambol, and Morjim, reflecting the State’s diverse coastal charm and community-driven tourism ethos.

The awards are powered by more than 370 million verified traveller reviews worldwide. In 2026, a total of 17,575 travel partners in India received the Traveller Review Awards, marking an increase from 15,674 recipients in 2025. Globally, a record-breaking 1.81 million partners were recognised, including over 1.8 million accommodation providers, 1,977 rental car companies, and 137 airport transfer suppliers.

This year’s awards also reflect evolving traveller preferences across India. Hotels continue to be the most popular accommodation choice, with 6,650 award recipients, followed by homestays (2,652), apartments (1,984), resorts (1,338), and guest houses (1,218). The numbers highlight a growing demand for personalised and unique travel experiences.

The 2026 list of Most Welcoming Regions in India includes Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Goa, Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Puducherry, Assam, Karnataka, and Haryana. Among the Most Welcoming Destinations are Bir, Mararikulam, Jaisalmer, McLeod Ganj, Mukteswar, Khajuraho, Bhim Tal, Manali, Hampi, and Mandrem.

Santosh Kumar, Regional Manager, South Asia at Booking.com, stated that the Traveller Review Awards celebrate partners who consistently deliver exceptional hospitality across India. He noted that Goa’s continued recognition reflects its vibrant culture and coastal charm, with local partners playing a crucial role in making India a memorable destination for travellers from around the world.

Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com aims to make it easier for everyone to experience the world by leveraging technology to simplify travel. Goa’s continued presence on the Most Welcoming list underscores not only its scenic appeal but also the warmth and dedication of its hospitality community, which continues to leave a lasting impression on visitors year after year.

Goan Personalities

MLA Kedar J. Naik Appointed Chairman of Goa Tourism Development Corporation

Tanisha Cardozo

Kedar J. Naik, Hon’ble MLA of Saligao, has officially assumed charge as the new Chairman of the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC). His appointment heralds a new era in Goa’s tourism sector, focusing on Regenerative and Responsible Tourism, community engagement, and sustainable growth.

With extensive administrative experience and a deep understanding of grassroots governance, Shri Naik is expected to strengthen GTDC’s efforts in promoting sustainable tourism infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, and developing experiences that preserve Goa’s cultural and natural heritage. His leadership aims to position Goa as a year-round global destination that balances tourism growth with environmental and community welfare.

Speaking on his appointment, Shri Naik said, “I am honoured to take on this responsibility and contribute towards shaping Goa’s tourism landscape in line with our vision for Regenerative Tourism. Our focus will be on improving infrastructure, fostering community participation, and developing experiences that preserve Goa’s heritage while creating long-term benefits for our people.”

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, congratulated Shri Naik, stating that under his leadership, GTDC will continue to diversify Goa’s tourism offerings, empower local communities, and enhance the state’s reputation as a model of sustainable tourism. The Director of Tourism also expressed confidence in Shri Naik’s vision and administrative acumen to accelerate Goa’s tourism growth responsibly.

GTDC Managing Director Shri Kuldeep Arolkar welcomed Shri Naik and reiterated the corporation’s commitment to innovative tourism experiences, community participation, sustainable infrastructure, and cultural preservation.

Shri Kedar J. Naik’s appointment signals a renewed commitment to curating Goa’s cultural, hinterland, and heritage circuits, fostering harmony, hospitality, and long-term sustainable benefits for both visitors and residents. Under his guidance, GTDC is poised to strengthen Goa’s position as a global model for Regenerative and Responsible Tourism.