#TravelwithAllycaral ๐Ÿ‘’

GTDC celebrates 43 years of excellence on Corporation Day


: The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) marked its 43rd Corporation Day commemorating over four decades of dedicated service towards enhancing tourism in Goa.

The event was graced by Shri Ganesh Gaonkar, Chairman of GTDC and MLA of Sanvordem Constituency; Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC; Shri Gavin Dias, General Manager (Hotels & Marketing), GTDC; Shri Laxmikant Vaigankar, General Manager (Admin) and President of the Staff Welfare Association, GTDC; Shri Kapil Paiguinkar, General Manager (Finance), GTDC; and Shri Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager (Marketing) and Secretary of the Staff Welfare Association. Several other office bearers and staff members were also present to mark the occasion.

The celebration commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, symbolizing prosperity and progress. The dignitaries on the dais were welcomed with plant saplings, reinforcing GTDC’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

All 10 GTDC residencies were recognized by presenting Awards Trophies to respective Managers and Staff for their commendable service and achievements. Additionally, members of the Staff Welfare Association were presented with mementos as a token of appreciation for their dedication at the hands of Chairman and Managing Director.

While addressing the gathering Chairman, GTDC, Shri Ganesh Gaonkar stated, “The outstanding performance of our residencies has played a key role in our growth, enabling us to contribute dividends to the government. I urge all teams to maintain their high standards and continue their exceptional efforts.”

Managing Director, GTDC, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar appreciated the staff for their dedication, stating, “Our teamโ€™s hard work and dedication have been pivotal in GTDCโ€™s achievements. I encourage everyone to continue working with the same enthusiasm and dedication.”

The celebration also included a variety of engaging games and activities, with spot prizes awarded to participants. The winners of the Paithani competition were felicitated with prizes presented by the Chairman, adding to the vibrant spirit of the occasion.

Shri Gavin Dias, General Manager (Hotels & Marketing) shared his thoughts, emphasizing the Corporation’s ongoing initiatives to elevate tourism experiences in Goa.

Deepak Narvekar Dy, General Manager Mktg, GTDC and Secretary, Staff Welfare Association highlighted various programs and initiatives of GTDC and the achievements made by GTDC during recent years with support of Chairman & Managing Director.

Shri Laxmikant Vaigankar, General Manager (Admin) and President of the Staff Welfare Association, GTDC welcomed the gathering and acknowledged the efforts of the GTDC team. Treasurer of Staff Welfare Association, Smt. Amita Desai, Member Smt. Deepa Sawjar, and Shri Vinay Majik also assisted to make the event a success.

During the event, members of the Staff Welfare Association felicitated Shri Ganesh Gaonkar, Chairman, GTDC and Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC for their leadership and contributions.

The Corporation Day celebration concluded on a positive note, reflecting GTDC’s ongoing commitment to excellence and its dedication to positioning Goa as a premier travel destination.

#TravelwithAllycaral ๐Ÿ‘’

GTDC announces special Women’s Day offer: 50% discount on stay at GTDC residencies


Panaji, March 7, 2025: In celebration of International Womenโ€™s Day on March 8, the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) has announced a special initiative to encourage and facilitate women. Women booking rooms across all the GTDC residencies in Goa starting from March 7 till March 9, 2025, will receive a 50% discount on their stay.

Emphasizing the significance of this initiative, Dr Ganesh Gaonkar, Chairman GTDC, stated, ” On the occasion of International Womenโ€™s Day we extend our appreciation for the contributions of women in all spheres of life. To celebrate this spirit, GTDC is offering a special discount to encourage women to take time for themselves, travel, and experience the diverse offerings of Goa.”

Adding to this, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC, said, “At GTDC, we are committed to making tourism in Goa more inclusive and accessible. This initiative is a step toward ensuring that women feel welcomed and valued when they travel. We invite women, along with their families, to visit Goa and enjoy a memorable stay at GTDC residencies.โ€

GTDC continues to introduce such initiatives to enhance travel experiences and promote Goa as a welcoming destination for all. The corporation urges all women to take advantage of this special offer and enjoy a memorable stay in the state. For bookings visit GTDC website http://www.goa-tourism.com or call on 0832-2438866.

Events in Goa

The Department of Tourism Announces the New Carnaval Song 2025


*Panjim, 25th February 2025* โ€“ The excitement for the 2025 Carnaval in Goa reached new heights as King Momo, accompanied by Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC, Shri Dhiraj Wagle, Deputy Director, South, Shri Gavin Dias, General Manager, GTDC, Shri Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager, GTDC, and Shri Jayesh Kankonkar, Assistant Director, unveiled this yearโ€™s Carnaval song at a lively event at the Department of Tourism.

This yearโ€™s Carnaval promises to be bigger, brighter, and more engaging than ever before. While the Porvorim Carnaval Committee decided not to hold celebrations along the traditional route due to ongoing construction for the flyover, the community is encouraged to join in the festivities across other locations.

The new King Momo, Mr. Cleeven Mathew Fernandes will lead the grand parade, immersing the crowd in the infectious spirit of the Carnaval. This year’s event is expected to bring together locals and visitors to celebrate Goaโ€™s vibrant music, dance, and rich cultural traditions. The Carnaval song titled โ€˜Viva Carnavalโ€™ composed by Shine On Band will set the tone for the festivities, uniting people and evoking the true essence of togetherness that defines the spirit of Goa.

King Momo delivered an inspiring message to the people of Goa, emphasizing the importance of unity. “Always maintain peace and unity in Goa,” he said, encouraging everyone to come together to make this yearโ€™s Carnaval unforgettable.

*Shri Kedar Naik, Director Tourism* expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, โ€œGoaโ€™s Carnaval is a testament to our rich heritage, vibrant culture, and the spirit of inclusivity that binds us together. As we welcome tourists from around the world, let us ensure that this grand celebration remains a symbol of unity, joy, and responsible tourism. Viva Carnaval!โ€

In terms of safety and crowd management, event organizers, in collaboration with Goa Police, emergency services, and security personnel, have laid out a comprehensive plan. Traffic management will be well-coordinated, ensuring a smooth experience for all attendees. Visitors are advised to cooperate with authorities for a hassle-free experience.

The route for the parade will remain the same as previous years, with the flag off from the new Patto bridge till campal grounds. The officer-in-charge of the ongoing construction project on MG road, has assured that the construction work will be completed by the 26th of February, ensuring that everything is ready for the grand celebration.

We invite locals, tourists, and the community to join the Carnaval and celebrate the music, dance, and tradition that make this event truly special. Let’s come together and create an unforgettable experience for all!

#AllycaralFeature ๐Ÿ‘’

Department of Tourism hosts memorable sunset boat cruise tour for Polish travel agents


Panaji, 5th December 2024: The Department of Tourism in collaboration with Travel Corporation India (TCI), hosted a sunset boat cruise tour for around 30 travel agents from Poland on December 5, 2024. The event aimed to showcase Goaโ€™s scenic beauty, rich culture and attract more tourists from Poland to Goa.

The guests were cordially welcomed at Captain’s Club, Ribander, by Shri Gavin Dias, General Manager, GTDC; Shri Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager (Marketing), GTDC; Shri Shawn Mendes, OSD to the Minister for Tourism; Shri Ernest Dias, Chief operating officer, TCI and Shri Jayesh Kankonkar, Assistant Director of Tourism. The evening began with an engaging presentation by Shri Gavin Dias, spotlighting Goaโ€™s vibrant heritage, cultural diversity, and stunning landscapes followed by the screening of a captivating video highlighting Goa’s unique hidden gems and current tourism initiatives was played, offering guests a glimpse into the state’s diverse attractions.

The highlight of the tour was a boat cruise from Ribander, offering stunning views of Old Goa and Panaji. The serene journey, with its calm waters and lush greenery, gave guests unforgettable memories as they enjoyed views of Goaโ€™s landmarks, including the World Heritage Sites at Old Goa along with Divar Island, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, and Atal Setu, showcasing the regionโ€™s beauty and history. The guests were brought to Goa by Rainbow Tours, the charter operator that facilitates charter flights to the state, with two flights arriving every 10 days.

Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director of Tourism and Managing Director of GTDC remarked, โ€œThis initiative highlights Goaโ€™s breathtaking scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage, offering an immersive experience for guests while strengthening international tourism ties. By creating experiences that celebrate Goaโ€™s essence, we aim to inspire a deeper understanding of sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and the local community.โ€

Shri Gavin Dias, General Manager, GTDC, highlighted, โ€œGoaโ€™s seamless connectivity through charter flights, waterways, rail, and road, along with user-friendly apps like Goa Taxi and Goa Miles, ensures hassle-free travel. With its cultural treasures like Chikhal Kalo and Sรฃo Joรฃo among others, exciting adventures, and serene wellness retreats, Goa offers something unique for every traveller.โ€

Recently, Department of Tourism, also successfully hosted the Goa Roadshow 2024 in Warsaw, Poland. This exclusive invite-only event showcased Goaโ€™s rich heritage, cultural traditions, and tourism offerings, engaging Polish travel stakeholders through presentations, interactive sessions, and personalized discussions strengthening ties with the Polish travel community.

The cruise ride concluded with the travellers expressing their admiration for Goaโ€™s natural beauty and the immersive experience curated for them. This collaboration is yet another step in promoting Goa as a global tourism hub, blending its rich traditions with modern sensibilities to create unforgettable journeys.