Tag: goa tourism

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Goa Tourism Draws Global Spotlight on Day 1 at ATM Dubai 2025 with Authentic and High-Value Experiences

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Goa, 29th April 2025– Goa Tourism’s participation at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 28th April to 1st May 2025 drew strong attention on the first day from travel trade stakeholders, media, and tourism investors from across the Middle East and beyond.

The Goa Pavilion at ATM Dubai was inaugurated by Mr. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Government of India, along with Mr. Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India, Dubai, in the presence of Shri Rohan A Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, Shri Ganesh Gaonkar, MLA Sanvordem and Chairman GTDC, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director GTDC, Shri Shawn Mendes, OSD to Tourism Minister, Shri Laxmikant Vaigankar, GM Administration and Assistant Tourist Officer Smt. Lodovina Quadros along with Goan co-exhibitors and other esteemed guests. A series of B2B meetings, media interactions, and networking sessions marked the first day, as Goa Tourism highlighted its vision of moving beyond conventional beach tourism to promote the state’s cultural, ecological, and spiritual wealth.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, said, “Goa has long been known for its sun, sand, and sea — a perception that once limited how people viewed the state as a tourism destination. Pre-COVID, tourists often saw Goa as a one-dimensional getaway. However, post-COVID, we’ve realized that Goa holds immense untapped potential. Tourists today want more than a single experience; they want diversity — and Goa offers just that. By diversifying our offerings, we’ve been able to increase the average length of stay, showcasing Goa’s monsoons, hinterlands, culinary richness, heritage, and culture. These post-pandemic learnings have led us to target new, high-value markets like the UAE, which is a strategic region for us. Monsoons in Goa, from June to September, offer a lush, soulful experience — one filled with mystique, flavour, and charm that resonates with travellers from the Middle East.

At the Arabian Travel Market 2025, we highlight Goa as a year-round destination. Today, Goa speaks not only of beaches, but of adventure, wellness, weddings, hinterland experiences — and most importantly — regenerative tourism. While the world talks about sustainability, Goa has taken it a step further by being the first state in India to actively pursue Regenerative Tourism based on the pillars of Culture, Economy, and Environment. We want tourism to benefit every Goan, especially those at the grassroots, ensuring inclusivity and shared prosperity. We’re also amplifying digital outreach to the UAE through influencer collaborations, social media, and targeted campaigns. Trade shows like ATM help us engage in important B2B dialogues that can’t happen online. We’ve already hosted influencers from countries like Uzbekistan, and we plan similar engagements for the UAE market. Such initiatives create authentic content, expand our narrative, and reposition Goa as a culturally rich, emotionally resonant destination. Goa is ready to welcome the curious traveller — those who want to relive iconic Bollywood memories, those who seek culinary exploration, and those who want to reconnect with nature and tradition. To our friends from the UAE and across the GCC countries — come, experience the Goa that lives in our villages, thrives in our culture, and breathes through our people. Come once, and you will always want to return. As we say — Atithi Devo Bhava — the guest is God, and in Goa, we welcome you as family.”

Shri Sanjay Sudhir, Ambassador of India to the United Arab Emirates and Consul General of India in Dubai, Dr. Aman Puri appreciated the efforts of the state in encouraging Regenerative Tourism and ensuring that sustainable tourism remains central to its vision. This will further result in ensuring more UAE tourists visit the state and experience its offbeat locations, adventure tourism and much more.

A key highlight of Goa’s showcase at ATM Dubai 2025 is its strong emphasis on expanding air connectivity. With direct flights between Goa and Dubai, and the dual operation of Goa International Airport (Dabolim) and Manohar International Airport (Mopa), Goa is now more accessible than ever to Gulf travellers.

Goa Tourism is also promoting its pioneering Regenerative Tourism approach, encouraging visitors to contribute positively to local communities, culture, and the environment. From heritage walks and organic farm experiences to backwater explorations and artisanal markets, Goa is offering travellers authentic and enriching experiences that go beyond the conventional.

Goa’s participation at ATM Dubai 2025 is further strengthened by a distinguished lineup of co-exhibitors, representing the diverse and dynamic tourism ecosystem of the state with M/s Concord Exotic Voyages represented by Mr. Sheik Ismail, Sr. Vice President, SpeedBird Travels, represented by Mr. Xavier Peres, Director, Shining Sand Beach Resort had Mr. Kapil Singhal, Director and Mr. Narayan D Chodankar, Manager, DSK Holidays, represented by Mr. Amitesh Pandey (Owner) and Ms. Nafisa Sheik (Manager), Travel Unlimited led by Mr. Mansoor Ali, CEO, Spice Route, represented by Ms. Sonia Rodrigues, Manager – Business Development & Operations, Travel Smith, represented by Deepak Lotilkar, Director Freedom Holidays, with Mr. Martin Joseph Thypodath (Managing Director) and Mr. Bency George (Director, Business Development), Flying Fish Diving, represented by Mr. Amitabh Gautam, Konkan Explorers Goa, represented by Mrs. Poonam Ribo (Director) and Ms. Glefi Fernandes, La Passage, represented by Mr. Nahush Bargi and Mr. Sidh Nath Rai, The Lalit Golf & Spa Resort, Goa, represented by Ms. Shalini Tewari, General Manager, The Astor Goa (A Unit of Archer Hospitality Pvt. Ltd.), represented by Mr. Vaibhav Gupta, General Manager, and ADAMO THE BELLUS, represented by Mr. Hanumant Naik, General Manager, Goa.

Tourism’s dynamic Day 1 at ATM Dubai 2025 sets the tone for an engaging and fruitful participation, as it continues to position itself as a premium, sustainable, and culturally vibrant destination for the global traveller.

Events in Goa

The Spirit of Goa Festival 2025 – A Resounding Celebration of Goa’s Distilling and Culinary Heritage

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Panjim, 29th April 2025 – The Department of Tourism convened a press conference with the Director Tourism Shri Kedar Naik, General Manager, Marketing GTDC Shri Gavin Dias, Deputy General, Marketing and PRO Shri Deepak Narvekar, and Assistant Director, Department of Tourism Shri Jayesh Kankonkar for the Spirit of Goa Festival, which will be held from 2nd to 4th May 2025 at the scenic SAG Grounds, Colva.

Director Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik stated “The Spirit of Goa Festival is more than just a celebration — it is a tribute to Goa’s legacy of craftsmanship, innovation, and community spirit. By blending tradition with creativity, the festival presents a vibrant showcase of our rich heritage to the world. We are committed to strengthening such platforms that empower local artisans, distillers, and culinary talent, while also offering visitors an authentic taste of Goa’s evolving story.”

The three-day event will showcase 40 stalls and a wide spectrum of locally distilled beverages — from the traditional and GI-tagged Cashew Feni, to innovative Feni infusions, premium gins, craft beers, and exotic spirits crafted from both imported and indigenous raw materials. Distillers will also present exciting new ventures in wines and agave-based spirits, highlighting the dynamic future of Goa’s beverage industry.
The festival will offer a rich culinary journey. Moving beyond coconut and cashew-based dishes, the food curation will embrace ingredients such as banana flower, kokum, raw jackfruit, Bimla (bimbli), and mango, bringing together authentic Saraswat, Konkan, and Christian cuisines, alongside contemporary Goan fusion creations. Innovative cocktail pairings will further enhance the gastronomic experience.

Festivalgoers can engage in a host of immersive activities, including masterclasses on traditional food preparation and mixology, a curated Feni Experience Centre featuring Goa’s top distillers, live demonstrations of Goan arts and crafts, vibrant photobooth with props and the lively cashew stomping sessions which will delight participants of all ages.
The entertainment setup will feature a world-class audio system by Coda (Germany), showcasing Goa’s local talent on a globally benchmarked stage.

The Spirit of Goa Festival
continues to be a cornerstone in the Department of Tourism’s initiatives to promote Goa’s cultural, culinary, and artisanal heritage while supporting the state’s regenerative tourism vision..

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Goa Tourism Charts Strategic Roadmap at 21st Empowered Committee Meeting on Marketing & PR

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Panaji, 24th April 2025 — The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, convened the 21st Empowered Committee Meeting on Marketing and Public Relations, under the chairmanship of Honourable Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte. The meeting was attended by the Secretary Tourism Shri Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS, Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, Managing Director of GTDC, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, TTAG President, Shri Jack Sukhij, COO of travel Corporation of India, Shri Ernest Dias, Bigfoot Museum Founder, Shri Mahendra Alvares, GTB Board Member, Mr. Mark Mendes, representatives from Mopa Airport amongst others.

The committee conducted a thorough review of ongoing and planned marketing initiatives, placing a strong emphasis on maximizing impact, ensuring efficiency, and fostering year-round engagement across diverse tourism segments.

During the meeting, the need to restructure and streamline roadshows and trade shows—both domestic and international—was emphasized to enhance return on investment. It was unanimously agreed that all such engagements must be aligned with clear performance benchmarks and measurable outcomes, ensuring optimal utilization of public resources.

Discussions also centered on two high-potential tourism verticals: MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and Destination Weddings. The state aims to tap into the growing business travel segment while simultaneously enhancing its positioning as a premier wedding destination, leveraging its scenic beaches, heritage venues, and robust hospitality infrastructure.

A significant step towards transparency and accountability was the presentation of post-audit reviews by agencies responsible for executing previous roadshows and trade shows. These evaluations helped identify outcomes, challenges, and key learnings, which will inform future strategies and execution frameworks.

The Committee further deliberated on the proposed airline incentive scheme, previously introduced in the Goa Legislative Assembly. The scheme, designed to strengthen scheduled and chartered connectivity from emerging international markets, proposes a performance-linked disbursement model based on actual passenger headcount. This approach aims to ensure responsible investment while driving inbound tourism in a targeted and value-driven manner.

The meeting placed special focus on incentivizing emerging markets, especially in light of changing geo-economic dynamics and shifting trends in domestic travel influenced by the political and geographical aspects across India.

As part of its long-term strategy, the Committee introduced “Vision 365”—a roadmap for year-round global market engagement. This initiative is focused on deploying KPI-driven marketing efforts in high-potential international markets, sustaining continuous engagement with trade partners and consumer segments, and ensuring a consistent communication cycle that maintains Goa’s presence across varying travel seasons.

Speaking on the occasion, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, stated, “Goa’s tourism roadmap must be strategic,performance-driven, and future-ready. With targeted investments in connectivity, smarter marketing, and year-round engagement, we are positioning Goa not just as a seasonal getaway but as a global destination with diversified tourism experiences and sustained economic impact.”

President of TTAG, Shri Jack Sukhija stated “The committee meeting has emphasised the need for result-driven planning in Goa tourism’s Marketing and promotion. By emphasising measurable outcomes, stakeholder alignment, and smart incentivisation, we’re building a resilient tourism ecosystem. As industry partners, we look forward to supporting these forward-looking initiatives that aim to streamline the marketing and promotion initiatives.”

COO of travel Corporation of India, Shri Ernest Dias shared his thoughts stating “Last year’s focused international outreach and participation in key global travel fairs have begun to yield measurable results. We’re already witnessing a notable uptick in charter flight operations for this season, indicating renewed confidence among our overseas partners and travelers. With continued strategic engagement, we can further strengthen Goa’s position as a preferred international leisure destination.”

Airport Director, Goa International Airport, Dabolim, Shri George Varughese stated “Our collaborative discussions on the airline incentive model are timely and essential — especially for penetrating emerging markets ,expanding destinations and diversifying inbound traffic. With Goa’s growing international visibility, infrastructure readiness will be key to unlocking its full tourism potential.”

The Department of Tourism reiterated its commitment to evidence-based planning, enhanced stakeholder collaboration, and smart tourism investments that will reinforce Goa’s position on the global tourism map.

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MajesticPride Revolutionizes Goa’s OOH Landscape with a Giant Roulette Installation

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In a groundbreaking move, MajesticPride has transformed the outdoor advertising landscape in Goa with the launch of its latest larger-than-life branding installation. Strategically positioned at the arrival exit of Mopa International Airport in Goa, this giant Roulette-inspired structure is set to become a trending landmark symbol, captivating the attention of tourists and locals alike.


This colossal installation is not just a visual spectacle but also a testament to innovative engineering and design. The Roulette-inspired structure is a perfect blend of art, creativity, and precision, making it a must-see attraction in Goa.


With this installation, MajesticPride aims to elevate the outdoor advertising experience in Goa, providing brands with a unique platform to showcase their presence. The structure’s massive size and strategic location ensure maximum visibility, making it an ideal spot for brands looking to make a lasting impression.


The Roulette installation has quickly become a symbol of Goa’s vibrant spirit and creativity. As tourists and locals snap photos in front of this giant structure, it has become a trending landmark, putting Goa on the map as a hub for innovative outdoor advertising.


The installation offers unparalleled brand visibility, with its massive size and prime location ensuring that it captures the attention of every visitor exiting the airport. This is a game-changer for brands looking to make a bold statement in Goa.

A Partnership for Success
MajesticPride’s collaboration with Mopa International Airport has resulted in a win-win situation for both parties. While MajesticPride gets to showcase its innovative installation, the airport benefits from the enhanced passenger experience.


With this installation, MajesticPride has redefined the boundaries of outdoor advertising in Goa. The company’s commitment to innovation and creativity has set a new benchmark for the industry, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.


MajesticPride’s giant Roulette installation at Mopa International Airport is a testament to the company’s innovative spirit and commitment to delivering exceptional outdoor advertising experiences. As this trending landmark symbol continues to captivate audiences, it’s clear that MajesticPride is redefining the OOH landscape in Goa.

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Department of Tourism Issues Directive on Unauthorized Yachting Activities in Goa

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*Panjim, 23rd April 2025 –* The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has issued a directive to all watersports operators conducting the activity of Yachting within the state to ensure strict compliance with the provisions of the Goa Registration of Tourist Trade Act, 1982 and Rules, 1985. This directive comes in response to the growing number of operators found operating yacht activities without obtaining the necessary NOC, license or permission from the Department.

According to the official circular issued by the Department, all such operators must register their activity within 15 working days from the date of issuance of the notice. This move aims to regulate yachting services, enhance tourist safety, and ensure adherence to legal protocols.

*Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, emphasized the importance of this step, stating,* “The Department is committed to streamlining watersports activities in the state to ensure safety, transparency, and accountability. Unregulated operations pose a risk not only to tourists but also to the environment. We urge all operators to come forward and regularize their services under the existing legal framework.”

This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Department to strengthen compliance among tourism stakeholders and promote responsible tourism in line with Goa’s vision for a well-regulated and sustainable tourism ecosystem.