Tag: Regenerative Tourism

Travel

Goa Crowned ‘Best Romantic Destination’ at Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Goa has been conferred with the Winner – Best Romantic Destination at the prestigious Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards 2025, further reaffirming its position as one of India’s most admired and loved travel destinations. The award was presented at a distinguished ceremony held at Nandiya Gardens, ITC Maurya, New Delhi, on December 16, 2025. The honour on behalf of the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, was received by Ms. Swati Prabhu Shastri, currently serving at Goa Sadan on deputation from the Education Department.

This recognition highlights Goa’s timeless appeal, from its scenic coastline and intimate hospitality experiences to its vibrant cultural fabric and seamless balance of luxury with laid-back charm. Over the years, Goa has evolved beyond its beach identity, offering meaningful experiences rooted in heritage, wellness, hinterland exploration, and responsible tourism, making it a preferred destination for couples and travellers alike.

Reacting to the recognition, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte described the award as a proud moment for the state, noting that Goa offers far more than picturesque landscapes. He emphasised that the essence of romance in Goa lies in its culture, warmth, authenticity, and strong sense of place, while reiterating the government’s commitment to regenerative tourism that benefits both visitors and local communities.

Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik also welcomed the honour, stating that the recognition reflects the consistent efforts of the Department of Tourism, industry stakeholders, and local communities. He highlighted how curated experiences such as heritage stays, wellness retreats, immersive cultural encounters, and responsible tourism initiatives continue to strengthen Goa’s identity while keeping pace with evolving traveller expectations.

Now in its 14th year, the Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards is a marquee celebration recognising excellence across the travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors. This accolade reinforces Goa’s positioning as a destination that effortlessly blends celebration with serenity, luxury with simplicity, and romance with sustainability. The Department of Tourism expressed its gratitude to Travel + Leisure India, industry partners, and travellers for their continued trust and support, viewing the award as a strong endorsement of Goa’s vision for experience-led, responsible, and regenerative tourism.

Travel

Goa Tourism Showcases Future-Ready Vision at QTM 2025 with Grand Pavilion Inauguration

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Goa Tourism marked a significant milestone at the Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) 2025 with the inauguration of its pavilion by Mr. Vipul, IFS, Indian Ambassador to Qatar, in the presence of Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik, GTDC General Manager (Marketing) Mr. Gavin Dias, and other dignitaries. The event highlighted Goa’s focused global outreach and its commitment to positioning itself as a premium destination aligned with emerging travel trends.

Speaking at the inauguration, Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasized that Goa has entered a transformative phase where sustainability, community empowerment, and experiential tourism are central drivers of growth. He stated that the State’s participation in QTM 2025 strengthens its connection with one of its most important international markets and reinforces its ambition to diversify Goa’s tourism portfolio across leisure, wellness, weddings, adventure, and film tourism. His remarks underscored Goa’s vision of delivering high-quality, responsible, and innovative tourism experiences that match global expectations.

Echoing this vision, Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik highlighted that QTM 2025 provides a valuable opportunity to present Goa beyond its popular coastline by showcasing regenerative tourism models, upgraded infrastructure, and curated visitor experiences designed for authenticity and quality. The interactions on the opening day demonstrated strong international interest in Goa as a multifaceted destination capable of offering memorable and meaningful experiences.

The pavilion presented a refreshed narrative of Goa’s tourism landscape, displaying new and evolving offerings shaped by global travel trends. Visitors were introduced to the State’s strengthened focus on regenerative tourism, community-led initiatives, and improved visitor infrastructure, along with emerging verticals such as nocto tourism, jet-setting through film and screen tourism, and calming wellness-oriented “calmcations.” The State’s expanding portfolio reflects its long-term commitment to sustainable development and experience-driven travel.

Throughout the day, the Goa pavilion witnessed enthusiastic participation from travel trade professionals, international tour operators, media delegates, and industry buyers. Conversations revolved around infrastructure advancements, digital tourism innovations, heritage conservation projects, and community-driven tourism circuits that aim to create meaningful impact for both travellers and local communities.

The opening day concluded on an optimistic note, reinforcing Goa Tourism’s strong presence at QTM 2025. With a future-ready vision and a comprehensive tourism offering, the Goa delegation is set to continue its engagements over the next two days, deepening partnerships and strengthening the State’s global position as a diverse, responsible, and world-class travel destination.

Travel

Goa Tourism Strengthens Global Footprint with Successful Malaysia Roadshow

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has successfully concluded its exclusive roadshow in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, marking another milestone in the State’s growing global outreach. The event drew an enthusiastic response from Malaysia’s travel trade community, reinforcing Goa’s expanding presence in the Southeast Asian tourism market.

Led by the Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, along with General Manager (Marketing) GTDC, Shri Gavin Dias, and key industry representatives, the delegation engaged with leading tour operators, travel partners, and hospitality stakeholders, creating meaningful opportunities for collaboration. The presence of dignitaries such as Dr. Vivekanand, First Secretary of the Indian High Commission; MATTA President, Shri Nigel; and Director General of Malaysia Tourism, Shri Datuk Manoharan, added significance to the international engagement.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, highlighted that Goa is emerging as a global destination rooted in innovation, culture, and sustainability. He noted that the Malaysia roadshow provided a valuable platform to showcase Goa’s new vibrancy shaped by responsible and regenerative tourism, reaffirming the State’s commitment to nurturing deeper international partnerships and enhancing its global positioning.

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, expressed satisfaction with the encouraging response from Malaysian travel partners, emphasizing that Goa today represents a diverse tourism landscape encompassing entertainment, wellness, luxury, and rich cultural programmes. The roadshow highlighted Goa’s signature festivals, improved air connectivity, expanding hotel infrastructure, and an evolving range of experiential tourism offerings that cater to modern travellers seeking meaningful journeys.

By reinforcing its focus on regenerative tourism and experience-led travel, Goa showcased itself as a destination that seamlessly blends innovation with cultural depth. The Department of Tourism expressed confidence that the Malaysia Roadshow will pave the way for fruitful partnerships, strengthen bilateral tourism ties, and support its broader global outreach initiatives aimed at expanding Goa’s presence in priority international markets.

Travel

Goa Showcases Regenerative and Future-Ready Tourism at Qatar Travel & Tourism Expo 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Goa Tourism is set to take center stage at the Qatar Travel & Tourism Expo 2025, scheduled from 24th to 26th November, presenting the state as a leader in regenerative and future-ready tourism. The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, will use this international platform to showcase a refreshed tourism identity shaped by innovative experiences, enhanced services, and emerging global trends.

The Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized Goa’s commitment to blending responsible development with luxury travel experiences. He noted that participation in the Expo will enable Goa to highlight its diverse offerings—from wellness and nature-based experiences to cinematic exposure and dynamic nightlife—while engaging with global industry leaders to strengthen its presence in key international markets.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, added that the Expo provides a crucial opportunity to promote Goa’s expanding tourism services and contemporary travel experiences. The delegation aims to highlight improvements in tourism infrastructure, foster international partnerships, and position Goa as a destination that offers both quality and authenticity.

Goa will spotlight a diversified tourism portfolio, including emerging trends such as nocto tourism, which curates safe and vibrant nightlife zones featuring music, culture, and local gastronomy. Film and screen tourism will also be showcased, emphasizing Goa’s appearances in films, OTT series, and international productions. Additionally, calmcations—focused on wellness, Ayurveda retreats, and tranquil nature getaways—will underscore Goa’s appeal to travelers seeking rest and rejuvenation.

The Expo will also highlight enhancements in visitor infrastructure, digital tourism services, heritage precinct development, water-based tourism, hinterland experiences, adventure activities, and community-led tourism initiatives. These efforts reflect Goa’s broader focus on regenerative tourism, ensuring that tourism growth benefits local communities while safeguarding cultural and natural heritage.

Goa Tourism’s participation at the Qatar Travel & Tourism Expo 2025 marks a significant step in global outreach, showcasing the state as a destination that combines sustainability, innovation, and cultural vibrancy. By engaging with travel partners, industry stakeholders, and international visitors, Goa reaffirms its commitment to delivering enriching, memorable, and future-ready travel experiences.

Goan Personalities

MLA Kedar J. Naik Appointed Chairman of Goa Tourism Development Corporation

Tanisha Cardozo

Kedar J. Naik, Hon’ble MLA of Saligao, has officially assumed charge as the new Chairman of the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC). His appointment heralds a new era in Goa’s tourism sector, focusing on Regenerative and Responsible Tourism, community engagement, and sustainable growth.

With extensive administrative experience and a deep understanding of grassroots governance, Shri Naik is expected to strengthen GTDC’s efforts in promoting sustainable tourism infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, and developing experiences that preserve Goa’s cultural and natural heritage. His leadership aims to position Goa as a year-round global destination that balances tourism growth with environmental and community welfare.

Speaking on his appointment, Shri Naik said, “I am honoured to take on this responsibility and contribute towards shaping Goa’s tourism landscape in line with our vision for Regenerative Tourism. Our focus will be on improving infrastructure, fostering community participation, and developing experiences that preserve Goa’s heritage while creating long-term benefits for our people.”

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, congratulated Shri Naik, stating that under his leadership, GTDC will continue to diversify Goa’s tourism offerings, empower local communities, and enhance the state’s reputation as a model of sustainable tourism. The Director of Tourism also expressed confidence in Shri Naik’s vision and administrative acumen to accelerate Goa’s tourism growth responsibly.

GTDC Managing Director Shri Kuldeep Arolkar welcomed Shri Naik and reiterated the corporation’s commitment to innovative tourism experiences, community participation, sustainable infrastructure, and cultural preservation.

Shri Kedar J. Naik’s appointment signals a renewed commitment to curating Goa’s cultural, hinterland, and heritage circuits, fostering harmony, hospitality, and long-term sustainable benefits for both visitors and residents. Under his guidance, GTDC is poised to strengthen Goa’s position as a global model for Regenerative and Responsible Tourism.