Tag: inclusive travel

Travel

Minister for Tourism, Rohan Khaunte Leads Goa’s Month-Long World Tourism Day 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa, India’s most iconic travel destination, reaffirmed its leadership in sustainable and people-first tourism by hosting a month-long celebration to mark World Tourism Day 2025. Spearheaded by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, under the leadership of Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Dr. Rohan A. Khaunte, the campaign featured over 30 events that placed communities, culture, and sustainability at the center of travel.

The month-long initiative, delivered in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), SKAL International Goa, and the Yuva Tourism Clubs, brought together over 200 locals, students, and visitors in a dynamic showcase of Goa’s evolving tourism landscape.

From kayaking, cycling, heritage walks, and bioluminescent forest experiences to traditional bread-making and coconut farming in villages, every activity aimed to showcase a regenerative tourism model that protects natural assets, uplifts local communities, and enriches visitor experiences.

Inclusive tourism took center stage with special boat cruises for persons with disabilities, senior citizens from old-age homes, and children from orphanages — a powerful affirmation of Goa’s commitment to accessibility and dignity in tourism.

A key highlight was the participation of youth through the Yuva Tourism Clubs, with over 100 students from more than 30 colleges engaging in eco-walks, village picnics, cycling, and cooking experiences. These initiatives are shaping a new generation of Tourism Ambassadors deeply connected with their heritage, environment, and communities.

Celebrating Goa’s rich culinary tradition, two high-profile cooking competitions were hosted at IIHM Goa (17–18 September) and IHM Goa (22–23 September), giving young hospitality students a platform to showcase their creativity and knowledge of Goan cuisine.

The month also marked a significant step in Goa’s business tourism strategy with the upcoming launch of the MICE Promotion Bureau at the largest ever Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa. This initiative is set to place Goa on the global map for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE).

The celebrations will conclude with a Film Festival at ESG on 28 September, spotlighting Goa’s heritage, biodiversity, and conservation efforts — a fitting finale to a campaign that united industry, government, students, and communities under a shared vision.

Reflecting on the success of the campaign, Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik noted: “These activities represent a holistic approach to tourism development. We’re building a future-ready ecosystem that benefits not just visitors, but also our people and environment.”

Goa’s commitment to a better tourism model is backed by real numbers: from January to June 2025, the state welcomed 5.45 million visitors, including 5.18 million domestic and 0.27 million international tourists — an 8.4% YoY increase. Cruise tourism also saw a rise, with over 34,121 passengers docking at Goan ports, thanks to improved air, sea, and charter connectivity.

As Goa heads into the Golden Season 2025–26, the Department of Tourism invites all — travellers, youth, stakeholders, and residents — to experience the state not just as a destination, but as a living, thriving story of people, nature, culture, and connection.

Travel

Goa Tourism Unveils Immersive and Inclusive Experiences Ahead of World Tourism Day 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

In the lead-up to World Tourism Day 2025 on September 27, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has launched an ambitious month-long celebration in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), SKAL International Goa, and the Yuva Tourism Clubs across the state. This comprehensive series of activities reflects Goa’s progressive vision for sustainable, inclusive, and experiential tourism.

The month of September has been transformed into a canvas for immersive, localised experiences that showcase the state’s rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, culinary traditions, and community spirit. These efforts are part of Goa’s broader commitment to regenerative tourism, where travel experiences are designed not just to entertain but to positively impact both visitors and host communities.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, noted that the initiative aims to showcase Goa as a year-round destination with authentic experiences. He emphasized the role of youth in driving this change, highlighting the Yuva Tourism Club’s involvement in fostering a culture of responsible travel. Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, reiterated the state’s holistic approach — blending heritage, nature, gastronomy, and inclusive events — to create a vibrant and future-ready tourism landscape.

The public is invited to take part in a variety of curated experiences such as a Bioluminescence Forest Walk, Cruise & Kayaking Trail, Folgar forest picnics, heritage walks at Monte Santo and Aguad, and traditional bread-making workshops. A visit to the Mulgao Folk Village will immerse participants in local customs, music and coconut farming techniques. Each activity is designed to engage both tourists and residents, creating opportunities for shared discovery and cultural exchange.

At the heart of the celebration is youth engagement. Through the Yuva Tourism Club, these experiences are being introduced to students in schools and colleges across Goa to raise awareness about sustainability and instill pride in local culture. The calendar includes a biodiversity walk at Carambolim Lake, electric cycle tours, and hands-on culinary activities that allow students to engage with Goa’s unique ecological and culinary identity.

Culinary enthusiasts can look forward to cooking competitions hosted at IIHM Goa and IHM Goa on various dates, inviting participants to explore the depth and diversity of Goan cuisine. These events aim to bridge traditional food knowledge with modern gastronomy, sparking creativity and cultural appreciation among the youth.

In a significant move toward inclusive tourism, the Department of Tourism will host two special boat cruises — one on September 26 for persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and children from orphanages, and another on September 27 dedicated to special children from Rotary institutions. These events underscore Goa’s commitment to making tourism accessible to all, irrespective of age or ability.

On World Tourism Day, September 27, the state will also host its largest Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa. The event will feature the presentation of the Vincent Ramos Scholarship and a key announcement — the launch of Goa’s dedicated MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) Promotion Bureau, a strategic move to position the state as a premier destination for business tourism.

The celebrations will conclude on September 28 with a special one-day Film Festival at the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), showcasing heritage-themed films that focus on sustainability, community engagement, and conservation.

This year’s World Tourism Day theme in Goa is not just about attracting tourists — it’s about reimagining what tourism can mean for local communities, the environment, and future generations. The Department of Tourism invites everyone — residents, students, visitors, and stakeholders — to experience Goa through a fresh, immersive, and meaningful lens.

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Manohar International Airport Launches e-Wheelchair Services for Enhanced Passenger Comfort and Accessibility

allycaralgoa

Goa | May 2025 – In a move to make air travel more accessible and inclusive, Manohar International Airport (GOX) has officially launched e-Wheelchair services for passengers requiring mobility assistance. This initiative reaffirms the airport’s dedication to providing world-class, passenger-centric facilities and ensuring a seamless journey for every traveler.

The newly introduced e-Wheelchair is a battery-operated mobility vehicle designed to comfortably transport passengers with reduced mobility across the airport terminal. Unlike traditional wheelchairs, this electric version offers better ergonomics and ease of movement, greatly enhancing the travel experience for users.

The service is managed and operated by Aroon Aviation Services Private Limited, a leading provider of professional airport assistance services known for their reliability and attention to passenger needs.

💰 Service Details and Pricing

  • Chargeable Service: INR 800/- (inclusive of GST)
  • How to Avail: Directly at the airport by visiting the e-Wheelchair service desk
  • Availability: Based on demand and on-ground availability
  • Service Coverage: From the entrance of the terminal to the boarding gate, or until the passenger is handed over to the respective airline staff for further assistance

This modestly priced service ensures that passengers who require special assistance receive personalized and comfortable transit support, helping ease the pressure on family members or airport attendants.

🌟 Key Benefits of the e-Wheelchair Service:

  • ✅ Enhanced comfort for passengers with limited mobility
  • ✅ Reduced physical strain on airport staff and attendants
  • ✅ Faster, smoother navigation through terminal spaces
  • ✅ Personalized service, from check-in to handover at the boarding gate

Whether for senior citizens, passengers recovering from surgery, or individuals with temporary mobility challenges, the e-Wheelchair service makes navigating the airport more efficient and dignified.

🛫 Commitment to Accessibility and Care

The launch of the e-Wheelchair service is a part of Manohar International Airport’s larger vision to make its facilities more accessible and passenger-friendly. By integrating technology and thoughtful services, the airport continues to set new standards in modern travel convenience.

“With the e-Wheelchair initiative, we’re not just offering a service — we’re delivering peace of mind and dignity to our passengers who need it most,” said an airport spokesperson.

📍 Need Assistance?

To use the e-Wheelchair service:

  • Visit the e-Wheelchair Service Desk at the departure area of Manohar International Airport (GOX).
  • Request the service on-the-spot or inquire for assistance from airport staff.
  • Payment of INR 800/- can be made directly at the desk.

🔗 Stay Connected

For more updates on passenger services, accessibility features, and flight information, visit the official website of Manohar International Airport (GOX) or follow us on social media.