Tag: Goa hotels

Travel

Goa Sees Near-Full Hotel Occupancy as New Year Begins on a High Tourism Note

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Panjim | January 29, 2026

Written by Alisha Fernandes || Allycaral

Goa has ushered in the New Year on a robust tourism footing, with hotels across the State reporting near-full to full occupancy, reaffirming its position as one of India’s most preferred travel destinations. The strong performance during the New Year period highlights sustained demand and sets a positive tone for the tourism sector in the months ahead.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, said the encouraging figures reflect the success of the State’s focused and long-term tourism strategy.
“The strong hotel occupancy witnessed at the start of the New Year reflects the success of our focused approach towards quality tourism. Our emphasis has been on diversifying tourism experiences, improving infrastructure, and promoting responsible and regenerative tourism practices. This growth is not just about numbers, but about creating meaningful economic opportunities for local communities while ensuring long-term sustainability of the destination,” he stated.

The impressive occupancy levels are attributed to consistent efforts aimed at enhancing destination readiness, improving connectivity, and positioning Goa as a year-round tourism destination. Visitors arriving during the New Year period showed growing interest beyond the beaches, exploring cultural, wellness, spiritual, and hinterland tourism experiences — leading to a more balanced tourism footprint across the State.

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, noted that the New Year response validates the evolving direction of Goa’s tourism ecosystem.
“The encouraging occupancy levels are a direct outcome of strategic planning, destination preparedness, and continuous engagement with stakeholders. Goa’s tourism ecosystem is evolving with a focus on experiences beyond the beaches, and the New Year response clearly validates this direction,” he said.

Industry stakeholders have welcomed the strong start to the year, observing increased confidence among travellers and tour operators. The surge in arrivals has also generated a positive ripple effect across allied sectors including transport services, restaurants, homestays, and local businesses, strengthening the overall tourism economy.

Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Jack Sukhija, President, Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), said, “The New Year has commenced on an extremely positive note for Goa’s tourism sector, with hotel occupancies touching very high levels across categories. This clearly indicates sustained demand and renewed confidence among travellers.”

With the Department of Tourism continuing to work closely with industry partners to ensure safe, seamless, and high-quality visitor experiences, Goa’s tourism sector appears well-positioned for steady, inclusive, and sustainable growth in 2026.

Business

Exotic Resort & Spa ‘Novotel’ Appoints Rhythm .K. Gandhi as Marketing & Communication Manager

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

In a strategic move to further enhance its brand positioning and guest engagement strategies, Exotic Resort & Spa ‘Novotel’, located in the vibrant beachside destination of Candolim, Goa, has appointed Rhythm .K. Gandhi as its new Marketing & Communication Manager.

Rhythm joins the Novotel family with a proven track record in hospitality marketing and communications. Her most recent role was as Assistant Manager – Marketing & Communications at Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal, where she led various initiatives including social media strategy, creative content, online reputation management, and campaign planning.

Prior to this, Rhythm worked with Impresario Handmade Restaurants in Dehradun, contributing to national campaigns and local community initiatives. At Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort & Spa, she played a pivotal role in repositioning the property as a resort destination and led the execution of the acclaimed “Perfectly Yours – Hyatt India Wedding Campaign.” She was also instrumental in the successful launch of Beyul, the rooftop bar and lounge, overseeing its creative direction, PR, and event planning.

Rhythm’s academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management from IMS Unison University, Dehradun (Class of 2022). She completed her early education at Doon International School, Dehradun, and Convent of Jesus and Mary, Waverley, Mussoorie.

Commenting on her appointment, a spokesperson from Novotel Goa shared:

“Rhythm’s dynamic experience and passion for storytelling align perfectly with our vision to create meaningful connections with our guests. We are confident that her innovative approach will help elevate Novotel’s presence in Goa’s highly competitive hospitality landscape.”

As Goa continues to flourish as a top tourist destination, Novotel’s decision to bring in fresh talent like Rhythm signals its intent to lead with creativity and bold, guest-centric marketing strategies.

Business

Sayaji Hotels Debuts in Goa with the Launch of Effotel by Sayaji, Panaji

Tanisha Cardozo

Panaji, Goa | August 21, 2025: In a strategic move that aligns with Goa’s evolving landscape as both a leisure and business destination, Sayaji Hotels has officially launched Effotel by Sayaji, Panaji, marking its first footprint in Goa’s capital.

Strategically positioned on Dr. Atmaram Borkar Road, Effotel Panaji boasts prime access to major transit points including Dabolim Airport (27 km), Mopa Airport (34 km), and Karmali Railway Station (13 km), making it a convenient base for business travelers and tourists alike.

This boutique business hotel features 48 elegantly appointed rooms in Deluxe, Superior, and Premium categories. The rooms are tailored to meet the needs of modern travelers, offering smart amenities and stylish design that reflects Sayaji’s signature commitment to comfort and functionality.

At the heart of the property is The Cube, an all-day dining restaurant offering a refined mix of international cuisine and local Goan delicacies. Adjacent to the restaurant, the vibrant in-house bar creates a social epicenter for guests and locals.

The hotel also offers a rooftop swimming pool with panoramic views of the city, and a tranquil spa that provides a relaxing escape from Panaji’s urban bustle.

“With Effotel by Sayaji, Panaji; we are delighted to bring the Sayaji brand ethos of thoughtful hospitality, modern design, and curated experiences to Goa,” said Sumera Dhanani, Corporate Business Development Head. “This property reflects our vision of creating destinations that resonate equally with business and leisure travelers.”

“Goa has always been seen as a leisure market, but with Panaji’s growing prominence as a business hub, Effotel Panaji brings the best of both worlds to our guests,” said Sarfraz Sheikh, Director, Anwar Hassan Group.

“As our first hotel in Panaji, this launch represents both a strategic expansion and a heartfelt commitment to elevating the hospitality experience in the state,” added Rajendra Joshi, Director of Operations, Sayaji Group.

Whether you’re a corporate traveler looking for efficiency or a leisure seeker wanting to experience Goa’s charm from its vibrant capital, Effotel by Sayaji, Panaji promises a stay that is as seamless as it is memorable.

Business

IHCL Signs Vivanta Hotel in Anjuna, Expanding Its Presence in Goa

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Mumbai, July 03, 2025: In a major development for Goa’s hospitality landscape, the Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) — India’s largest and most iconic hospitality group — has announced the signing of a new greenfield project in Anjuna, which will be branded under its Vivanta portfolio.

The project marks another milestone in IHCL’s strategy to deepen its footprint in premier leisure destinations and strengthen its portfolio of upscale hotels across India.

Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development at IHCL, stated:

“IHCL has been at the forefront of pioneering destinations and has played a defining role in putting Goa on the global tourism map for over five decades. This signing is in line with our strategy to expand IHCL’s presence across segments in key leisure markets. We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with Fiesta Hotels with this new project.”

Strategic Location & Features

Located in the heart of Anjuna, known for its vibrant beach life, eclectic markets, and rich cultural experiences, the 110-key Vivanta Anjuna, Goa, will offer an elevated stay experience with:

  • An all-day dining restaurant
  • A chic bar
  • A luxurious swimming pool
  • Fully equipped gym
  • Modern, versatile conference and event facilities

Mr. Ravinder Kumar, Director at Fiesta Hotels Pvt. Ltd., added:

“We are proud to collaborate with IHCL through the addition of our second hotel in Goa. It stands as a testament to our shared vision to deliver exceptional experiences in one of India’s most cherished destinations.”

Goa – A Timeless Destination

Famed for its sun-kissed beaches, Portuguese-era architecture, and lively culinary and music culture, Goa remains India’s premier coastal destination. IHCL’s deep-rooted presence in the region has not only boosted tourism but also helped preserve and celebrate Goa’s unique cultural identity.

With this latest addition, IHCL now has 18 hotels in Goa, including 5 under development, reinforcing its commitment to India’s hospitality excellence and regional development.