Tag: goatourism

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Goa Tourism Dazzles at TTF Kolkata 2025 with a New-Age Narrative of Responsible Travel

allycaralgoa

Kolkata | 10th July 2025 Goa Tourism has once again captivated hearts and minds at Travel and Tourism Fair (TTF) Kolkata 2025, showcasing a bold and refreshed vision of the coastal state — one that blends sustainability, culture, and immersive technology into a truly transformative travel experience.

Inaugurated at the Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan, one of India’s most prominent travel trade exhibitions, the Goa Pavilion is themed around the message: Goa is not just a destination, it’s an experience.

Representing Goa at the opening were Shri Dhiraj Wagle, Deputy Director of Tourism and Shri Akshay Govenkar, Marketing Manager of GTDC, who welcomed delegates and introduced the state’s evolving tourism ethos.

A Showcase of Regenerative & Responsible Travel

Goa’s pavilion takes visitors on a curated journey through the state’s lesser-explored offerings — from verdant monsoon trails and sacred temple circuits to immersive heritage routes and village-based stays. These experiences are rooted in regenerative tourism models that promote sustainability, community participation, and cultural revival.

“Goa Tourism is showcasing a range of experiences that reflect the state’s evolving identity,” said Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism. “From spiritual trails to immersive monsoon campaigns, the focus is on meaningful and responsible travel.”

Blending Tradition with Innovation

A key highlight of the pavilion is its use of technology to elevate visitor engagement. QR-based information systems, interactive kiosks, and Virtual Reality (VR) booths allow attendees to explore Goa’s serene landscapes, festivals, and rituals in a fully immersive digital format — making tradition tangible and interactive.

The Glow On Arrival monsoon campaign has particularly drawn attention, with lush visuals showcasing Goa’s rain-washed charm, misty trails, and peaceful countryside — urging travelers to visit Goa during its most soulful season.

Building Connections and Driving Collaborations

Over the next two days, the Goa Tourism team will actively engage with travel professionals, agents, and tourism boards to create opportunities for strategic collaboration, tourism development, and new-age travel experiences that go beyond the conventional sun-sand-sea narrative.

As TTF Kolkata 2025 continues, Goa’s presence serves as a model for how Indian tourism can evolve with authenticity, sustainability, and technological innovation at its core.

Goa Tourism invites all trade partners and travel enthusiasts to experience its renewed spirit at TTF Kolkata 2025 – a spirit that celebrates authenticity, innovation, and inclusive growth.

Goan Festivals

Traditional São João 2025 celebrations in Siolim, held in association with Goa Tourism

allycaralgoa

Siolim, June 24, 2025 – The Siolim São João Festival 2025 was celebrated with great enthusiasm and cultural pride, reaffirming its position as one of Goa’s most treasured traditional festivals. Organised by the Siolim Boat Festival Committee in association with the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, the event brought together dignitaries, local residents, and visitors in a vibrant celebration of heritage, community spirit, and creativity.

The festival began with the opening performance by Shri Johnny B Gud, accompanied by Reza, bringing energy to the stage with a spirited rendition of the São João anthem. This performance set the tone for an afternoon steeped in tradition and festive fervour. As the decorated boats made their way along the river, the arrival of the first float marked the ceremonial beginning of the day’s procession. Among the key highlights was a specially curated float presented by Goa Tourism, which featured the Siolim Committee President, a couple in traditional attire, and two young children—symbolising the inclusivity and generational continuity of Goan culture.

The festival was graced by the presence of Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte; MLA Siolim constituency Smt. Delilah Lobo; MLA, Calangute Constituency, Shri Michael Lobo; Managing Director, GTDC, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar , Parish Priest Siolim church Fr. Succor Mendes , Silvester Fernandes president of siolim Sao Joao committee and other officials from Goa Tourism.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte stated, “Coming to Siolim and celebrating São João alongside the committee has been a meaningful beginning. Our Goenkarponn lives in our villages, and it is this rich cultural heritage and tourism potential that we must highlight to truly represent Goa. When we speak of ‘Goa Beyond Beaches,’ it is essential to showcase cultural tourism and traditional festivals like São João, Carnival, and Chikhal Kalo, which play a significant role in preserving Goa’s history, traditions, and identity. The traditional São João festival will continue to be celebrated in Siolim, and I am pleased to announce that it will remain rooted here in the years to come.”

As a mark of welcome and respect, the dignitaries were felicitated with traditional kopels (floral crowns). A symbolic countdown followed, where the Tourism Minister and MLA Calangute constituency jointly triggered the formal commencement of the celebrations, drawing applause and cheer from the gathered crowd.

Also addressing the gathering was Smt Delilah Lobo, MLA of Siolim Constituency, who expressed her gratitude to the Tourism Minister for his support in making the event a success.

The cultural segment of the program featured a wide array of performances. A themed dance presentation by Goa Tourism celebrated the traditions of São João through expressive choreography. This was followed by a powerful musical act by The Clay Jars. The entertainment continued with traditional folk dances, fusion acts blending modern and classical forms, and spirited musical performances by artists BBC and Rosario, who kept the festive spirit alive well into the evening.

A large number of foreign nationals also joined in the festival celebrations in Siolim.

Adding further vibrancy to the event were the beautifully presented traditional boats that continued to arrive throughout the evening. Each showcased the creativity and collaborative spirit of the participating groups, captivating the audience with their design and symbolism.

As part of the evening’s acknowledgements, the organising committee felicitated individuals who have made noteworthy contributions to the community. These included Dr. Sachin, Dr. Noel, and Albert along with his daughter. Their dedication and service were recognised in a gesture of appreciation and gratitude from the community.

The Virtual Kopel Making Contest, earlier held by the Department of Tourism, brought a creative digital touch to the celebrations. During the Siolim São João Festival 2025, the winners of the contest were announced and felicitated, with Nicole Liza Fernandes awarded the 1st Prize, Mariola Mendes receiving the 2nd Prize, and Elton Dylan D’silva securing the 3rd Prize.

In addition to the performances and presentations, the festival included contests such as the Best Kopel Competition, held across both junior and senior categories. Several spot prizes were distributed throughout the program, adding an element of surprise and delight for the audience.

The festivities concluded with the presentation of mementos and the much-awaited announcement of the winning boats. The cheers and applause that followed were a fitting end to an event that had, throughout the day, showcased the unique character and festive spirit of Siolim. The Siolim São João Festival 2025 highlighted Goa’s rich cultural fabric, its strong community values, and the growing importance of integrating heritage with tourism.

#AllycaralFeature 👒, Goan Festivals

The Three Kings Feast shines as a celebration of Goa’s cultural heritage

allycaralgoa

Panaji, January 8, 2025 – The Three Kings Feast captivated both locals and visitors, showcasing vibrant cultural traditions and profound spiritual significance. The festival provided a unique opportunity for pilgrims and travellers to immerse themselves in the essence of Goa’s rich heritage, celebrating the deep-rooted connection between faith, culture, and tradition.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Chairman, GTDC, Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, Director of Tourism, Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, and Managing Director, GTDC, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar extended their wholehearted support to this unique festival. The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) team, led by General Manager Shri Gavin Dias and Deputy General Manager Shri Deepak Narvekar, along with other team members actively participated in the celebrations.

Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, Chairman of GTDC, reflected on the festival, stating, “The Three Kings Feast is more than just a celebration of faith; it is a vibrant expression of Goa’s cultural identity. This year’s event has highlighted the unifying power of heritage and tradition, drawing visitors from all corners of the world. We remain committed to promoting such events that showcase Goa’s unparalleled charm.”

The festivities took place across the scenic villages of Cansaulim, Chandor, and Reis Magos, offering a rich array of cultural experiences. Visitors were treated to solemn processions and masses in local churches, fostering devotion and communal unity. A captivating reenactment of the Magi’s journey further brought the historical and cultural essence of the festival to life. Three young boys, representing the Wise Men, carried symbolic offerings through the streets, contributing to a vivid portrayal of this timeless tradition. Traditional music, dance performances, and community events added to the vibrancy of the celebrations.

The global appeal of the festival was magnified through an innovative promotional campaign, utilizing digital platforms, influencer partnerships, and media outreach to share the festival’s story with audiences worldwide. In addition, the Goa Tourism set up a stall at the church premises, offering valuable information on services available to visitors and gave them gifts and snacks.

The Three Kings Feast transcended its religious origins, symbolizing Goa’s inclusive spirit and its seamless integration of faith, culture, and heritage. With a blend of age-old traditions and forward-thinking promotional efforts, this year’s celebration has brought together locals as well as visitors on Goa’s cultural landscape.

#AllycaralFeature 👒

IHCL CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF TAJ FORT AGUADA RESORT & SPA IN GOA

allycaralgoa

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, marks a momentous milestone as it completes 50 years of Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa, Goa. IHCL, with a 16-hotel portfolio, two air catering units and 40+ homestays, continues its pioneering leadership in Goa’s tourism landscape.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IHCL said, “Goa holds a special place in IHCL’s legacy. Beginning in 1974 with the launch of India’s first beach resort Taj Fort Aguada, this historic moment marked the dawn of luxury hospitality in Goa. Over the past 50 years, IHCL has been an integral part of Goa’s transformation into one of the world’s most sought-after holiday destinations. With the introduction of brands like Vivanta, SeleQtions, Ginger, and the homestay bungalows under amã Stays & Trails, IHCL offers experiences tailored to diverse traveller preferences.”
He added, “Today, as Goa continues to develop its infrastructure, IHCL stays committed to realising the state’s tourism potential. This includes our continued investment be it the recently launched TajSATS air catering unit and the upcoming 300-key Ginger hotel at MOPA airport as well as the development of Aguada Plateau as a world-class tourism destination showcasing the state’s rich cultural legacy.”
The journey began in 1974 with the opening of Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa, India’s first luxury beach resort, transforming Goa into a global tourism hotspot. Since then, IHCL has continued to unveil iconic properties like Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, the historic Taj Cidade de Goa Heritage designed by renowned architect Charles Correa and Taj Cidade de Goa Horizon at Dauna Paula, La Estoria and The Yellow House under IHCL-SeleQtions, Vivanta, Miramar and Panjim and Ginger’s lean luxe hotels in Panjim, Dona Paula, Madgaon and Candolim.
Inextricably linked with the cultural fabric of the state, IHCL hotels seamlessly blend Goa’s natural beauty and cultural ethos with world-class experiences, showcasing the spirit of Goan hospitality.

#AllycaralFeature 👒

Discover the Heart of Goa in Poland – Goa Roadshow 2024 Comes to Warsaw

allycaralgoa

Panjim, Goa, 4th December 2024 – The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, is excited to host the Goa Roadshow 2024 in Warsaw, Poland. This invite-only event aims to foster deeper engagement with the Polish travel community while showcasing Goa’s stunning tourism offerings.

Taking place on 5 December 2024 at the Novotel Warszawa Centrum, Roza Hall, the event will offer a vibrant and immersive exploration of Goa’s breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, and cultural traditions.

Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director Tourism, shared his enthusiasm about the roadshow, saying “Poland has always been a valued market for us, and we’re here to show why Goa is the perfect getaway for Polish travelers. This event is not just about promoting tourism but about building connections and providing insights into making travel to Goa a seamless and memorable experience.”

Visitors will be treated to a detailed presentation by the Director Tourism, Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, offering an overview of Goa’s tourism strategy and initiatives. This will be followed by a captivating video presentation, showcasing Goa’s diverse attractions, from its pristine beaches to its vibrant culture. An interactive Q&A session will address challenges faced by Polish travelers, paving the way for an enhanced travel experience.

Personalized one-on-one meetings with The Department of Tourism representatives will also provide valuable opportunities for collaboration and networking.

The evening will provide an engaging glimpse into the essence of Goa, the Goa Roadshow 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience. Blending cultural richness with valuable insights into its tourism potential, the state looks forward to welcoming you to Warsaw for a memorable evening.