Tag: goatourism

Travel

Goa Tourism’s Global Journey Continues with ‘Experience Goa’ Roadshow in Tashkent

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, is set to host an exclusive ‘Experience Goa’ Roadshow in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, at the City Palace Tashkent on September 15, 2025. This initiative is part of Goa Tourism’s ongoing global outreach to showcase the state as a year-round travel destination rich in culture, heritage, and sustainable experiences.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, emphasized the importance of the event: “The Roadshow is an opportunity to engage directly with Tashkent’s travel trade and position Goa as a year-round destination. Our focus is to create lasting connections while presenting Goa’s authentic, memorable, and immersive experiences.”

Echoing this vision, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, said: “Goa is evolving as a destination that celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability. Through the Tashkent roadshow, we wish to showcase not just Goa’s scenic beauty, but also its heritage, wellness, festivals, and adventure. We look forward to building on this connectivity and welcoming more travelers to experience Goa in its truest essence.”

The roadshow is designed to present Goa as a vibrant, diverse, and sustainable destination, far beyond the stereotypical beach getaway. It will bring together tour operators, travel agents, airline partners, and dignitaries from across Uzbekistan and Central Asia. The showcase will feature Goa’s wide-ranging tourism offerings including heritage, culture, wellness retreats, immersive festivals, and eco-conscious adventure experiences.

One of the central themes of the event will be Goa Beyond Beaches, promoting lesser-known aspects of Goa’s tourism potential. The concept of Regenerative Tourism will also take center stage, with Goa Tourism focusing on environmentally responsible travel that supports local communities.

Attendees at the Tashkent roadshow will enjoy one-on-one interactions with Goa Tourism representatives and explore potential partnerships and collaborations. This outreach event signifies another milestone in Goa’s effort to build meaningful global connections and welcome the world to explore its unique blend of tradition, nature, and innovation in tourism.

Social

Goa Tourism Launches Homestay & BnB Scheme to Empower Women and Boost Hinterland Tourism

Tanisha Cardozo

Porvorim, 7th August 2025: In a landmark move, Goa Tourism has launched the Homestay and Bed & Breakfast Scheme, aimed at empowering women, revitalising rural tourism, and promoting community-led travel experiences. This new scheme was unveiled by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, alongside Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte and other key dignitaries at the PAC Hall, Secretariat.

🎯 What the Scheme Offers

This enhanced scheme—originally envisioned as a policy—now provides:

  • ✅ One-time grant of ₹2,00,000 for eligible homestays
  • ✅ Marketing support & listing on Goa Tourism platforms
  • ✅ Training, exposure visits, and capacity building programs
  • ✅ Subsidised participation in domestic trade fairs
  • ✅ Gold/Silver quality classification for homestays
  • ✅ Simplified registration via http://www.goaonline.gov.in

📍 Who Can Apply?

Homestay operators in seven key talukas are eligible:
Sattari, Sanguem, Dharbandora, Bicholim, Canacona, Ponda, and Quepem

🧑‍🎓 Empowering Women, Strengthening Communities

Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte highlighted that many homestays are women-led, and this scheme is designed to boost women entrepreneurship, aligning with the broader “Goa Beyond Beaches” campaign.

“This is a strong vote of confidence in community-based tourism and the women behind it,” said Khaunte.

🌏 A Vision for ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’

By promoting Goa’s interior villages, culture, and natural heritage, the scheme supports the state’s goal to diversify its tourism economy and relieve pressure on the coastal belt. Director of Tourism Kedar Naik emphasized that the scheme reflects a shift toward inclusive and regenerative tourism.

📝 How to Apply

Applicants can register online or offline, with provisions for inspections, reclassification, and compliance monitoring. The scheme is valid for five years, with potential extensions by the Department.

🚀 The Impact

The Homestay & BnB Scheme isn’t just about accommodations—it’s about:

  • Shaping a decentralized tourism model
  • Building economic independence for women
  • Creating authentic travel experiences
  • Preserving Goa’s cultural and natural heritage

🔗 Final Word

This initiative reaffirms Goa’s position as a leader in sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready tourism.

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Goa Sees Strong Growth in Domestic and International Flight Connections in 2024–25

Tanisha Cardozo

Team Allycaral

Goa continues to evolve as one of India’s most well-connected travel destinations, with the 2024–25 season witnessing significant growth in air connectivity. From expanded international charter services to enhanced domestic flight access, the state is solidifying its status as a year-round, global tourism hub.

📈 Major Highlights:

  • Charter Flights Boom:
     Goa welcomed new charter services from countries including Russia, the UK, Kazakhstan, Poland, and Uzbekistan, following strong feedback from global tour operators.
  • Increased International Routes:
     Regular scheduled flights from the Gulf and Iran boosted international arrivals.
  • Improved Domestic Access:
     New connections linked Goa to Solapur, Hyderabad, Jalgaon, Agatti, and Lakshadweep, expanding its reach to tier-2 and seasonal travel markets.
  • Two Airports at Work:
     Both Goa International Airport (Dabolim) and Manohar International Airport (Mopa) played pivotal roles in sustaining traffic throughout the year.

💬 Voices from the Industry:

Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasized,

“This growth in air access is key to our tourism strategy. Better connectivity brings in wider audiences globally and enables us to promote Goa’s rich offerings beyond the conventional.”

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, added:

“This season has proven that strong connectivity leads to stronger, year-round tourism.”

Ernest Dias, COO of TCI and SITA, shared that efforts are already underway to increase charter flights from Russia and explore new markets like Scandinavia.

Sh. George Varughese, Airport Director of Goa International Airport, confirmed strategic operational upgrades to manage rising footfall, stating:

“Our focus remains on ensuring a hassle-free start to every visitor’s time in Goa.”

🌍 FIT Travellers on the Rise

Free Independent Travellers (FITs) from Portugal, Spain, and the Gulf are increasingly choosing Goa as their destination — attracted by improved connectivity and the state’s evolving mix of experiences.

🧭 Looking Ahead

The state government, along with stakeholders and airport authorities, remains focused on:

  • Deepening airline partnerships
  • Exploring new charter routes
  • Upgrading airport infrastructure
  • Promoting immersive, long-stay tourism

As Goa pushes boundaries with new markets and experiences, connectivity is not just a convenience—it’s a catalyst for the state’s tourism evolution.

Sports

YAARATHON 2025 – A Heartfelt Run to Celebrate Friendship!Farmagudi, Goa – 3rd August 2025

allycaralgoa

This Friendship Day, step into your sneakers and celebrate bonds that last forever with YAARATHON 2025, a unique 5KM friendship-themed run organized by JCI Farmagudi, in collaboration with Fitness Conscious Goa and supported by the Goa Tourism Department.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Farmagudi, the run begins at Farmagudi Residency and follows a vibrant route towards GEC, making it an event that blends fitness, fun, and friendship.

🎽 What’s Included:

  • Exclusive YAARATHON T-shirt
  • BIB for all participants
  • Finisher medals 🏅
  • E-certificates
  • Refreshments
  • Spot prizes & fun games!

🏆 Prizes for Each Age Category (Male & Female):

  • 🥇 1st Prize: ₹2,000 + Trophy
  • 🥈 2nd Prize: ₹1,500 + Trophy
  • 🥉 3rd Prize: ₹1,000 + Trophy

🧒 Categories:

  • 15–35 years
  • 35–50 years
  • 50 years & above

👥 Special Group Trophy: Bring your squad! The group with the highest number of participants wins a trophy!

📅 Event Details:

  • Date: Sunday, 3rd August 2025
  • Venue: Farmagudi Residency, Ponda-Goa
  • Flag Off: 6:30 AM
  • T-shirt & BIB Collection: 5:00 AM – 6:00 AM

💰 Registration Fee: ₹350
📲 GPay: 9823253046 (Jc Arafath Ahamed)
🔗 Register Here: https://forms.gle/xoej9uG9qw241rAA6
⏳ Registration closes on 21st July 2025 or earlier if slots fill up!

📞 Contact for more info:

  • JC Arafath Ahamed – 9823253046
  • JC Abida Shaikh – 8390785418
  • JC Krunal Naik – 7507014838

Join the movement. Make memories. Run for friendship.
📖 For more events and lifestyle updates, visit allycaral.com

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Goa Tourism Wins “Best Destination for Regenerative Tourism” Award at TTF Kolkata 2025

allycaralgoa

Goa, 12th July 2025 – Goa Tourism concluded its participation at TTF Kolkata 2025 with resounding success, as the state was honoured with the “Best Destination for Regenerative Tourism” award in recognition of its evolving and future-forward approach to tourism. The award was received on behalf of Goa Tourism by Shri Dhiraj Wagle, Deputy Director of Tourism; Shri Akshay Govenkar, Marketing Manager, GTDC; and Shri Kapil Nadkarni, UDC, Department of Tourism, who led the state’s delegation at the event and held multiple discussions with fellow state tourism boards, travel agencies, and hospitality leaders to explore collaborative opportunities and knowledge exchange.

Held from 10th to 12th July 2025 at the Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan, TTF Kolkata witnessed remarkable footfall at the Goa Tourism stall. A steady stream of trade visitors, industry leaders, travel enthusiasts, and fellow state representatives engaged deeply with the offerings presented, resulting in a significant number of inquiries about travel packages and Goa’s latest tourism initiatives.

Reflecting on the success of the event, Shri Kedar Naik, Director Tourism said “TTF Kolkata has reaffirmed the growing interest in responsible and meaningful travel. We had engaging discussions with both trade and general visitors who showed genuine curiosity about Goa’s lesser-known offerings. It was encouraging to see the resonance of regenerative tourism principles and the willingness to explore Goa beyond its coastline.”

Shri Dhiraj Wagle, Deputy Director of Tourism, added “This award is a testament to the efforts of the entire Goa Tourism team and our vision of curating experiences that are enriching, inclusive, and sustainable. Our participation at TTF Kolkata 2025 reflects how Goa is positioning itself not just as a destination, but as a way of life built on harmony between people, culture, and nature.”

The highlight of the pavilion was the strong interest shown by visitors in Goa’s Regenerative Tourism approach. Many guests were curious to understand what “regenerative” truly means, how it goes beyond sustainability to actively restore, revive, and empower the environment and local communities. Equally popular were intiatives like ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’, the unexplored hinterland trails, the spiritually enriching Ekadasha Teertha circuit, and the Glow On Arrival campaign that positions Goa as a rejuvenating monsoon destination.

Visitors also took advantage of spot booking facilities offered by Goa Tourism in collaboration with local hoteliers and tour operators. The immersive VR experiences, digital QR trails, and on-site cultural storytelling further added to the charm and engagement at the pavilion.

Goa Tourism thanks all visitors, stakeholders, and collaborators who contributed to the success of the pavilion at TTF Kolkata 2025. The department looks forward to welcoming travellers to experience the many layers of Goa, where every journey contributes to something greater.