Tag: goa tourism

Business

Reimagined Gateway Brand Marks One Year with the Launch of Gateway Goa, Palolem

allycaralgoa

MUMBAI, August 14, 2025: The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, announced the opening of Gateway Goa, Palolem, marking the company’s 250th operating hotel and a significant milestone for the reimagined Gateway brand.

Ms. Leah Tata, Vice President & Brand Leader, Gateway Hotels & Resorts, IHCL, said:
“The opening of Gateway Goa, Palolem celebrates one year of the brand’s journey with a portfolio of 36 hotels. Reimagined to serve as a true gateway to the destination, Gateway hotels offer guests an immersive experience rooted in the local culture and heritage. This launch strengthens our presence in the segment with its entry in India’s top leisure destination.”

Nestled between the Arabian Sea and Western Ghats, the 160-key property provides panoramic views of Rajbagh, Patnem, and Colomb beaches. Guests can enjoy curated dining with Trophé, serving zesty cocktails in a vibrant tropical setting, and 74 NE, Canacona’s only rooftop bistro offering herb-infused grills and global flavours with stunning 180° views. The property also features a spa with wellness therapies, a fully equipped gym, a swimming pool, and versatile venues for social and corporate events.

Mr. Ronald Menezes, General Manager, Gateway Goa, Palolem, added:
“Gateway Goa, Palolem reflects the spirit of the destination. We look forward to welcoming guests to a new address in South Goa for social celebrations and corporate events.”

Beyond its luxurious amenities, the hotel curates authentic Goan experiences, including feni-making traditions, kayaking, and turtle spotting.

With this addition, IHCL now has 19 hotels in Goa, including 5 under development.

Events in Goa

Goa celebrates the colourful spirit of Divar Island at Bonderam 2025

allycaralgoa

Panaji, August 16, 2025 – The scenic island of Divar came alive today with vibrant colours, traditional music, and community festivities as the Bonderam Festival 2025 unfolded in all its glory. Organised by St. Mathias Sports Club, Malar, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, the festival drew both locals and visitors, eager to witness one of Goa’s most distinctive monsoon celebrations.

Known for its rich blend of tradition, history, and creativity, Bonderam is marked by colourful floats, traditional parades, and cultural performances. While the main Divar Bonderam is held in the last week of August, Malar uniquely kicks off the celebrations a week earlier, setting the festive mood.

This year’s programme emphasised inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring everyone could participate. Dignitaries including Cumbarjua MLA Shri Rajesh Faldessai, renowned Goan singer Smt. Hema Sardessai, and Parish Priest Fr. Joao Coelho graced the occasion.

The day featured a vibrant line-up — Bonderachem GEDTalks and Bonderancho Uzvaad with engaging talks and folk performances; Bonderachem Jevonn, showcasing traditional Goan food; the symbolic Flag Parade and Heritage Walk (Bonderachi Pássoi); and the grand Bonderachi Parade with floats, flags, and costumes. Festivities ended on a high note with a musical evening featuring live bands and DJs at the Malar Flagpost.

Speaking at the festival, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, said:
“Bonderam is a vivid celebration of Goa’s heritage, blending colours, music, and unity. Through our Goa Beyond Beaches and regenerative tourism initiatives, we aim to preserve and promote these traditions for future generations.”

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, added:
“The Department of Tourism is committed to creating experiences that go beyond beaches. Festivals like Bonderam highlight Goa’s cultural diversity and strengthen its appeal as a meaningful travel destination.”

The Department of Tourism continues to position Goa’s cultural calendar on domestic and international platforms, ensuring that events like Bonderam remain iconic attractions for travellers seeking authentic experiences.

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Goa Tops Travel Charts for Independence Day Long Weekend: MakeMyTrip Insights Reveal

Tanisha Cardozo

As Indians prepare to celebrate the 78th Independence Day, many are also taking advantage of the long weekend to travel, unwind, and reconnect. Travel trends from MakeMyTrip, one of India’s leading travel platforms, show that Goa has emerged as the most sought-after domestic travel destination this year.

The Long Weekend Boost
 With Independence Day falling on a Friday (August 15), many travelers are taking off as early as Wednesday, August 13, effectively giving themselves a 5-day travel window. Rajesh Magow, Co-founder and Group CEO of MakeMyTrip, shared that search and booking activity has significantly increased, making this one of the busiest long weekends of the year.

“Independence Day has emerged as a key travel occasion over the years. This year too, the search and booking trends point to strong intent to travel,” said Magow.

Top Domestic Travel Destinations
 Goa leads the pack, thanks to its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and monsoon charm. Following closely are:

  • Udaipur
  • Jaipur
  • Puri
  • Lonavala
  • Varanasi
  • Coorg
  • Mahabaleshwar
  • Ooty
  • Pondicherry

These destinations offer a mix of culture, heritage, scenic beauty, and short travel times — ideal for weekend travelers.

International Trends: Asia Leads
 For those venturing abroad, nearby international destinations dominate the trend list. The top ten trending international cities include:

  1. Pattaya
  2. Bali
  3. Bangkok
  4. Singapore
  5. Dubai
  6. Phuket
  7. Colombo
  8. Kuala Lumpur
  9. Zurich
  10. London

These cities are popular for their visa accessibility, short flight durations, and diverse experiences.

A New Independence Day Tradition
 Independence Day has gradually become more than a patriotic holiday — it’s evolving into a key travel moment for Indian families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.

Whether it’s a serene hill station, a temple town, or a buzzing coastal city, this long weekend promises movement, memories, and meaningful escapes.

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Goa Tourism Showcases Regenerative Travel at TTF Mumbai 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Panaji, August 11, 2025 – The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, made an impactful appearance at the Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) Mumbai 2025, held from 11th to 13th August at the Jio World Convention Centre. Goa’s presence focused on the state’s growing commitment to Regenerative Tourism, drawing attention from dignitaries, industry leaders, and visitors alike.

🌿 A Shift Towards Regenerative Travel

At its dedicated pavilion, Goa Tourism showcased a series of community-driven tourism models that go beyond traditional sightseeing to actively benefit local communities and ecosystems.

Highlights included:

  • Heritage village trails celebrating Goa’s rich history
  • Hinterland tourism that supports rural communities
  • Local artisan displays and cultural performances
  • Culinary showcases featuring traditional Goan fare

Visitors experienced immersive displays, learned about responsible travel options, and explored new year-round tourism possibilities that combine discovery with sustainability.

🗣️ Leadership Speaks

Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, noted:

“TTF Mumbai is a valuable platform for Goa to present itself as a year-round destination rooted in regenerative and inclusive tourism. We are shifting from mass tourism to meaningful travel that supports nature and people.”

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, added:

“Goa’s tourism narrative now includes offbeat trails and heritage-rich experiences that invite travellers to go beyond the beaches and contribute positively to local economies.”

🤝 Dignitary Interactions & Industry Engagement

Smt. Diya Kumari, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan, visited the Goa Tourism pavilion and interacted with officials including:

  • Shri Rajesh Kale, Deputy Director, Department of Tourism
  • Smt. Chitra Vengurlekar, Assistant Tourist Officer
  • Shri Chandrashekhar Kopardekar, GTDC
  • Smt. Janvi Kharat, Department of Tourism

The delegation also engaged with leading travel operators, tourism boards, and media representatives to explore partnerships that amplify Goa’s responsible travel message across the domestic market.

🌍 A New Chapter for Goa Tourism

By highlighting regenerative, cultural, and inclusive travel experiences, Goa Tourism is opening a new chapter that appeals to modern, conscious travellers. The state is reaffirming its status as not just a destination of beauty, but of depth, diversity, and enduring value.

🗓️ Event: TTF Mumbai 2025
 📍 Location: Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai
 🗓️ Dates: 11th – 13th August 2025

Events in Goa

Goa Gears Up to Showcase Regenerative Tourism and ‘Beyond Beaches’ Campaign at TTF Mumbai 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Panjim | August 7, 2025: The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, is set to make a strong impression at the Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) Mumbai 2025, to be held from August 11 to 13 at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai.

After earning the Excellence Award for its trailblazing ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ campaign at TTF Ahmedabad earlier this year, Goa is ready to push the envelope further with its evolving tourism strategy centered on Regenerative Tourism.

A Shift from Volume to Value

Speaking ahead of the event, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized the need for responsible tourism:

“Goa is leading a paradigm shift in Indian tourism – from volume to value, from seasonal to year-round, and from superficial to immersive. At TTF Mumbai, we aim to reinforce our vision of Regenerative Tourism that benefits the people, nurtures our ecology, and sustains our culture.”

What’s New at the Goa Pavilion?

The Goa Pavilion at TTF Mumbai will present a multi-dimensional showcase reflecting the state’s renewed tourism outlook:

  • 🌧️ Monsoon Tourism: Promoting lesser-known trekking trails and nature circuits
  • 🛕 Spiritual Tourism: Featuring the Ekadasha Teertha circuit
  • 🧘 Wellness & Retreat Tourism: Showcasing yoga, ayurveda, and meditation experiences
  • 🏡 Homestays & Rural Circuits: Connecting tourists to the authentic Goan lifestyle
  • 🎭 Cultural Immersion: Celebrating Goa’s rich traditions, art, and cuisine

Engagement and Partnerships

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added:

“Our participation at TTF Mumbai is part of our ongoing outreach to engage with the travel trade and explore partnerships that align with Goa’s future-ready tourism vision.”

Officials from the Department of Tourism along with key stakeholders from the travel industry will be present to connect with tour operators, media, and investors who are aligned with Goa’s sustainable and diversified tourism development path.

Goa – More Than Just Beaches

Through campaigns like ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’, the state is successfully repositioning itself as a year-round, culture-rich, eco-conscious destination. The new focus is not only drawing a different kind of traveller but also helping to protect Goa’s heritage, ecology, and local livelihoods.

As Goa steps into TTF Mumbai 2025, it sends a clear message — Goa is no longer just a destination, it’s a living experience that respects both its people and planet.