Tag: goa tourism

Fit & Fabulous

India Beach Fashion Week 2025 Returns with Bold Innovation and Global Glamour

Tanisha Cardozo

India Beach Fashion Week (IBFW) 2025, presented by Timex, is set to make waves from October 9–11 at the Hilton Goa Resort. Now in its 11th season, IBFW 2025 continues to position Goa not just as a beach destination but as a thriving hub for lifestyle tourism, fashion innovation, and retail experiences.

At the heart of the event is Pallav Ojhaa, CEO and Co-Founder of IBFW, who hails from Assonora, Goa. What started as a local dream has grown into Asia’s largest resort fashion platform. “Growing up in Assonora, I never imagined that one day we could take our creativity, design, and culture to the world stage,” said Pallav. Through his COMO Designers Collective, he’s curated over 100 designers, connecting runway innovation with real-world retail and transforming Goa into a lifestyle destination with global resonance.

This year’s theme, “Where Resort Meets Bold Innovation,” embraces conscious design, craftsmanship, and storytelling for the digital age. From sustainable collections to immersive installations, the festival weaves together fashion and purpose with creativity and commerce.

Neha Asthana, Co-Founder of IBFW, emphasizes the festival’s deeper purpose: “This season highlights international expression, conscious design, and collaboration — all rooted in our home state. Resort fashion becomes a lifestyle, a business, and a cultural experience.”

As Title Sponsor, Timex strengthens its foothold in fashion, aligning its timeless ethos of “Analog Life – Make Time Yours” with the values of self-expression and mindful living. Deepak Chhabra, Managing Director of Timex Group India Limited, shares, “We are proud to be back with IBFW. Our brand and this platform both celebrate individuality and bold creativity — we’re not just keeping time, we’re defining moments.”

The designer lineup boasts renowned names such as Priya Kataria Puri, Bhawna Rao, Manaca Streetwear, Reana, Mia Magell, Asmita Marwa, and Abhishek Sharma, who will headline the exclusive Timex Grand Finale. The runway will also sparkle with celebrity appearances from Fatima Sana Shaikh, Mukti Mohan, Kashika Kapoor, Arissa Khan, and more.

Attendees can expect over 30 fashion showcases, The Pop-Expo marketplace, and the Dive Fashion Conclave — a thought leadership platform addressing sustainability, fashion’s future, and retail evolution. With lifestyle integrations from Campus Shoes, Dewars, 1664 Blanc, COMO Designers Collective, and SMA Hair & Makeup Academy, IBFW 2025 offers a multisensory experience that blends design, destination, and dialogue.

As the countdown begins, India Beach Fashion Week 2025 stands as a testament to Goa’s evolving identity — where beaches meet boldness, and fashion meets purpose.

Sports

Goa Strengthens Sports Tourism with Goa Rugby 7s 2025 – Season 2

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa continues to raise the bar for sports tourism in India with the announcement of Goa Rugby 7s 2025 – Season 2, scheduled to take place on November 15 and 16 at the GMC Athletic Stadium in Bambolim. The tournament, which has become a major highlight in the country’s emerging rugby scene, is supported by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, and organized in collaboration with the Crocotycles Rugby Foundation.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized the strategic importance of this tournament in diversifying Goa’s tourism offerings. “Goa is moving steadily towards becoming a premier sports tourism hub of India. Our support to tournaments like Goa Rugby 7s 2025 is a reflection of our vision to diversify Goa’s tourism offerings beyond beaches and nightlife. By nurturing such high-energy events, we are creating opportunities for our youth, boosting local communities, and showcasing Goa as a world-class destination for sports enthusiasts and travellers alike.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added that the event exemplifies Goa’s regenerative tourism approach. “The Department of Tourism is committed to developing an ecosystem where sports and tourism work hand in hand. Events like Goa Rugby 7s not only elevate Goa’s profile on the national and international sporting calendar but also align with our Regenerative Tourism approach by fostering local talent, supporting businesses, and ensuring sustainable visitor experiences.”

The collaboration with Crocotycles Rugby Foundation further highlights Goa’s intention to support niche and emerging sports. Rugby, a rapidly growing sport in India, is gaining momentum in Goa and offers an excellent platform for local athletes to showcase their skills at a national level. The tournament is expected to attract top teams from across India and potentially international entries, making it a significant event on Goa’s sporting calendar.

Goa’s scenic locations, modern infrastructure, and hospitable culture make it a perfect backdrop for such events. From marathons to triathlons and now rugby tournaments, the state is increasingly becoming a preferred venue for sporting events that align with sustainability and community development goals.

With Goa Rugby 7s 2025 – Season 2, the state reaffirms its commitment to promoting sports as a means of tourism diversification and youth engagement, positioning itself firmly as a leader in India’s sports tourism movement.

Travel

Goa to Spotlight Culture, Wellness & Sustainability at ITB Asia 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa, October 2025 – The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, will participate in ITB Asia 2025, Asia’s leading B2B travel trade show, taking place from 15–17 October 2025 at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. This strategic participation underlines Goa’s commitment to promoting itself as a destination that offers more than leisure — focusing on authentic, meaningful, and sustainable travel experiences.

At the global event, Goa Tourism will unveil its evolving tourism model that prioritizes cultural richness, spiritual depth, ecological responsibility, and community empowerment. Key offerings at the Goa Pavilion will include immersive experiences in spiritual tourism circuits, heritage trails showcasing Indo-Portuguese architecture and living traditions, and wellness tourism rooted in yoga and holistic healing.

Joining the tourism delegation, the Goa Forest Department will present Goa’s exceptional natural wealth — including wildlife sanctuaries, biodiversity hotspots, and nature-based experiences like immersive zoos and conservation-led ecotourism. The aim is to position Goa not just as a destination, but as an ecosystem where nature, culture, and community harmoniously coexist.

The pavilion will also spotlight festivals, rural tourism initiatives, and projects that directly engage local communities and support environmental preservation. These are designed to align with Goa’s broader vision of regenerative tourism — where tourism contributes positively to the places and people it touches.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, noted that Goa is entering a new chapter in its tourism story. “At ITB Asia 2025, we aim to build meaningful global partnerships and showcase Goa as a forward-thinking destination with upgraded infrastructure, safer travel environments, and diverse experiences rooted in our identity,” he said.

Echoing the sentiment, Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, emphasized the value of connecting with a global audience: “Our presence at ITB Asia is about presenting Goa as a place where heritage, nature, and community come together to create enriching journeys.”

Goa’s participation at ITB Asia 2025 is not just promotional — it’s transformational. It marks the state’s efforts to strengthen international partnerships, access new markets, and showcase a tourism model that is future-ready, inclusive, and globally relevant. From local culture to conservation, the Goa Pavilion will offer a complete picture of what responsible and regenerative travel can look like in one of India’s most beloved destinations.

Travel

Tourism Department Honours Lifesavers After Mobor Rescue — 27 Lives Saved

Tanisha Cardozo

In a remarkable display of courage and community spirit, 27 fishermen were rescued from a drifting trawler near Mobor beach in Goa, thanks to the timely action of Drishti lifesavers and local fishermen. The incident occurred late on the night of September 27, 2025, when a local resident raised the alarm about a fishing trawler drifting dangerously close to a rocky river mouth.

Despite the darkness and challenging weather conditions, off-duty lifesavers from Drishti immediately began tracking the vessel’s movement through the night. By early morning, a full-scale coordinated rescue operation was launched, involving backup teams, jetskis, and support from local fishermen. Their combined efforts ensured that all 27 fishermen were brought safely ashore, preventing what could have been a major maritime tragedy.

In recognition of this extraordinary act of bravery, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, felicitated the lifesavers and fishermen at Paryatan Bhavan in Panaji. Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, and Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, were present at the ceremony, where they praised the bravery, preparedness, and swift action of those involved.

Minister Khaunte highlighted that such acts exemplify Goa’s unique spirit of service and community, reaffirming the state’s commitment to coastal safety. Director Kedar Naik commended the professionalism and teamwork that made the rescue possible, thanking each individual who played a role in the operation.

Special acknowledgment was given to lifesavers Shri Lovu Gaonkar, Shri Samir Gaonkar, Shri Satish Gaonkar, Shri Punu Velip, Shri Shashikant Jadhav, Shri Pankaj Bhute, Shri Meghraj Juvatkar, Shri Sunil Velip, and Shri Vishal Velip. Their courage and quick response were instrumental in ensuring the successful outcome of the mission.

CEO of Drishti Lifesaving, Shri Navin Awasthi, praised the team, stating that the incident reflects the training and commitment of lifesavers to protect lives at all hours. He also thanked the beach police and local fishermen for their support in executing the operation seamlessly.

The Department of Tourism extends heartfelt gratitude to all involved and reiterates its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of locals and visitors along Goa’s coastline.

Travel

First International Charter Flight Lands at Mopa Airport, Marking Start of Goa’s Peak Tourist Season

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa officially welcomed the 2025–26 year-end travel season with the arrival of its first international charter flight from Novosibirsk, Russia, at Manohar International Airport (Mopa) on October 2. The occasion marks a significant milestone for the state’s tourism industry, reinforcing Goa’s status as a preferred international travel destination.

The arrival was celebrated with a traditional Goan welcome that included folk performances such as the Samayi Dance, Ghodemodni, and Dhangar Dance. A brass band and floral greetings completed the warm reception, showcasing Goa’s hospitality and rich cultural heritage. The dignitaries present included Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik, Deputy Director of Tourism Shri Jayesh Kankonkar, Assistant Tourist Officer Smt Chitra Vengurlekar, Senior Vice-President of Concord Exotic Voyages Shri Sheik Ismail, and Vice-President of Minar Group Shri Shubert Reinald Colaco.

This season, Goa will see a significant increase in connectivity from Russia with three new weekly flights from Novosibirsk joining existing routes from Yekaterinburg and Moscow. Aeroflot’s operations have now grown to nine flights a week, reflecting the rising demand for Goa among Russian travellers.

The momentum continues with a second charter flight from Novosibirsk scheduled to arrive on October 3 at 06:00 AM, followed by flights from Yekaterinburg on October 4 and 5, and a large-capacity A330-300 flight from Moscow arriving on October 5. Further enhancing Goa’s global connectivity, direct charter flights from Kazakhstan are set to commence on October 25, 2025.

The influx of international tourists is expected to boost Goa’s hospitality sector and open new avenues for economic growth. It also signifies a shift toward a more diverse and resilient tourism landscape with expanded source markets.

Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte expressed pride in Goa’s preparedness, stating that the state is ready to welcome the world with enhanced infrastructure, immersive experiences, and the warmth of Goan hospitality. Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik echoed the sentiment, highlighting how increased air connectivity is creating opportunities for stakeholders across the tourism value chain.

With coordinated efforts from the Department of Tourism and industry players, Goa is all set for a vibrant and impactful tourist season. The arrival of charter flights not only strengthens international ties but also ensures that tourism continues to serve as a vital contributor to the state’s inclusive economic growth.