Tag: RegenerativeTourism

Travel

Goa Tourism Showcases Its Cultural Brilliance at WTM London 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Tourism made a vibrant start at the World Travel Market (WTM) London 2025, drawing strong global interest from travel trade and industry partners. The Goa Pavilion welcomed an enthusiastic stream of visitors eager to discover the State’s rich cultural heritage, diverse tourism experiences, spiritual trails, hinterland adventures, and growing infrastructure that together shape its evolving tourism story.

This year, Goa Tourism’s showcase centred around its deep cultural roots, culinary excellence, and immersive travel offerings that reflect the State’s commitment to regenerative tourism. This approach places communities at the heart of tourism development, ensuring that growth is both inclusive and sustainable. By focusing on authentic experiences and storytelling, Goa continues to engage travellers who seek deeper, more meaningful connections with the places they visit.

The Goa Pavilion was inaugurated by Shri Kartik Pande IFS, Deputy High Commissioner of India to the UK, in the presence of Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa; Shri Rakesh Dahiya, IRS (Cus & IT), First Secretary (Trade & Tourism), High Commission of India, London; Shri Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS, Secretary (Tourism); Shri Sandip Jacques, IAS, Secretary (Revenue); Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC; Shri Jayesh Kankonkar, Assistant Director (Tourism); and Shri Shawn Mendes, OSD to the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism.

Representatives from leading travel trade organisations including Shri Sheikh Ismail (Concord Exotic), Shri Deepak Bhatnagar (Minar Travels), Shri Anup (Let’s Goa), and Shri Martin Joseph Thypodath (Freedom Holidays) were also present, reinforcing Goa’s strong partnership with the global tourism network. The Goa delegation engaged in productive discussions with international trade and media representatives, paving the way for new collaborations and strategic alliances.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, shared, “Our participation reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthening our tourism ecosystem through meaningful, community-led initiatives. We continue to promote experiences rooted in culture, heritage, wellness, and spirituality, offering visitors a deeper connection with the State. Our focus remains on enhancing accessibility, improving visitor experience, and showcasing Goa as a year-round destination that welcomes travellers with warmth.”

Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC, added, “We remain aligned with Goa Tourism’s efforts to enhance visitor engagement and support initiatives that contribute to a more inclusive tourism framework. Participation at WTM helps us strengthen partnerships and explore opportunities that contribute to sustainable growth.”

Supporting this vision, Shri Kedar Naik, Director (Tourism), Government of Goa, said, “We are focused on positioning Goa as a responsible and experiential tourism destination. Our efforts are geared toward improving visitor experience, promoting innovative circuits, and highlighting local culture so travellers can explore Goa in new and engaging ways.”

By championing “Goa Beyond Beaches,” the State continues to redefine its image on the global tourism map. Goa’s participation at WTM London 2025 underscores its dedication to regenerative tourism, celebrating its cultural richness, strengthening community well-being, and offering travellers the promise of meaningful, transformative journeys.

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.

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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.

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

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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.

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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.