Tag: Travel Trade

Travel

Goa Tourism Unveils Regenerative Vision at SATTE 2026

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Tourism marked a significant presence at SATTE 2026, one of South Asia’s leading travel trade exhibitions, held at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in New Delhi. The event was inaugurated by Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, whose visit to the Goa pavilion added prominence to the State’s participation.

During his visit, the Minister interacted with the official Goa delegation, gaining insights into the State’s evolving tourism roadmap. The delegation highlighted Goa’s strategic focus on regenerative tourism, an approach that goes beyond sustainability by actively restoring and enhancing local ecosystems, communities and economies. This progressive vision positions Goa as a leader in responsible tourism practices in India.

The Goa pavilion emerged as a major attraction on Day 1, witnessing a steady flow of visitors, including domestic and international travel trade representatives. Delegates showed keen interest in the State’s diversified tourism offerings, ranging from its iconic coastal experiences to its lesser-explored hinterland circuits. The display presented a comprehensive picture of Goa as a year-round destination, moving beyond its traditional beach-centric identity.

A key highlight of the showcase was the emphasis on regenerative tourism as a guiding principle for future growth. Anchored in the pillars of people, environment and economy, this approach resonated strongly with stakeholders seeking meaningful and sustainable travel models. The concept drew attention from buyers and partners looking to align with destinations that prioritise long-term impact over short-term gains.

The pavilion also promoted the “Live the Feeling” campaign, inviting travellers to experience Goa in a more immersive and authentic way. The campaign encourages visitors to engage with local culture, traditions and communities, thereby enriching their travel experience while contributing positively to the destination.

Officials noted strong engagement and productive discussions with industry stakeholders, particularly around experiential tourism, infrastructure development and enhanced visitor facilities. SATTE continues to serve as a crucial platform for Goa to expand its reach, strengthen partnerships and reinforce its position in both domestic and international markets.

Goa’s dynamic participation at SATTE 2026 reflects its continued commitment to innovation in tourism and its ambition to redefine how destinations are experienced. By embracing regenerative principles and showcasing a holistic tourism portfolio, the State is setting a forward-looking benchmark for the industry while reinforcing its appeal to the modern, conscious traveller.

Travel

Goa Tourism Strengthens Industry Ties at Travel Agents Meet 2026

Tanisha Cardozo

Panjim, 14th February 2026 – The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), a Government of Goa undertaking, organised the Travel Agents Meet 2026, bringing together key stakeholders from the travel and tourism industry to strengthen collaboration and align strategies for promoting Goa as a diverse, experience-led destination. The meet witnessed participation from 55 travel agents, online travel agencies and NTS operators, along with other members of the travel trade in Goa.

The dignitaries present included Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte; Chairman, GTDC Kedar Naik; Managing Director, GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar; General Managers Gavin Dias, Sachin Gore, Laxmikant Vaigankar and Kapil Paiguinkar, and Deputy General Manager Deepak Narvekar.

Speaking on the occasion, Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte emphasised the importance of collaboration with the travel trade in shaping Goa’s tourism growth story. He stated that travel agents remain long-term partners in promoting Goa beyond its beaches and positioning the state as a holistic, experience-rich destination. He highlighted that the focus remains on balanced tourism growth that benefits local communities, strengthens livelihoods and enhances visitor satisfaction.

Chairman, GTDC Kedar Naik underlined the pivotal role of travel agents as the first point of contact for travellers. He noted that the confidence with which visitors choose Goa is closely linked to the trust they place in travel professionals. He further reiterated that GTDC’s responsibility goes beyond infrastructure and services, extending to creating an ecosystem where tourism supports livelihoods, preserves culture and ensures inclusive growth.

Managing Director, GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar described the Travel Agents Meet as an important platform to align tourism products and services with evolving market needs. He stated that through continued engagement with the travel trade, GTDC aims to strengthen global promotion of Goa Tourism hotels, new tourism services and destination experiences while remaining responsive to changing traveller expectations.

As part of the programme, seven prominent tour operators were felicitated, including representatives of the Tour Operators Association of India, Goa-based online travel agents and NTS operators, in recognition of their contribution to promoting Goa as a preferred destination. Deputy General Manager (Marketing) Deepak Narvekar announced the names of the stakeholders during the felicitation ceremony in the presence of the Minister for Tourism and other dignitaries.

A detailed presentation on GTDC hotels and new tourism and adventure activities was delivered by General Manager Gavin Dias along with Senior Managers Vishesh Naik and Pravin Faldessai. Video films showcasing Goa Tourism, wildlife experiences, AVI Tourism and festivals were screened during the meet, offering attendees a broader perspective on the state’s evolving tourism landscape.

The event also facilitated an interactive exchange between GTDC officials and members of the travel trade on emerging markets, evolving traveller preferences and collaborative promotion opportunities. Goa Tourism’s hotels, new services and curated destination experiences were highlighted with a strong emphasis on strengthening global visibility through strategic trade partnerships.

The Travel Agents Meet 2026 served as a meaningful platform for dialogue, exchange of perspectives and deeper collaboration between Goa Tourism and the travel trade. The engagement reaffirmed the state’s commitment to working closely with industry stakeholders to position Goa as a preferred destination offering authentic, responsible and high-quality tourism experiences.

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 Tourism Concludes Successful Bahrain Roadshow, Showcasing New Experiences and Stronger GCC Partnerships

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Goa Tourism marked another milestone in its international outreach by successfully concluding its Bahrain Roadshow, which saw an enthusiastic response from travel trade professionals, media representatives, airline partners, and members of the Goan diaspora. The evening was graced by His Excellency Mr. Vinod K. Jacob, Ambassador of India to Bahrain, and key leaders from Goa Tourism including Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism; Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism; Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC; and Mr. Harish Satlekar, Marketing Manager at GTDC. Together they presented the refreshed tourism positioning of the state, introducing contemporary themes such as Nocto Tourism, Jet-Setting, and CalmCation, brought to life through the newly launched Feels Like Goa campaign that focuses on authenticity, emotion, and the distinctive spirit of Goa.

Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte expressed that Bahrain continues to be a strategic and promising market for Goa, with the impressive turnout reflecting strong trust and interest in the destination. He emphasized that the new tourism themes aim to resonate with today’s travellers by offering curated experiences that go beyond traditional tourism. The event was further elevated by the presence of notable dignitaries from Bahrain’s travel sector, including Ms. Fatima Ahmed, President of ABTTA; Mr. Hussain Zaman, Country Manager for Gulf Air, the only airline offering direct flights between Goa and Bahrain; and Mr. Noel Fernandes, President of the Young Goans Club. Their participation highlighted the significance of the event for bilateral tourism collaboration.

The audience was treated to captivating Goan folk dance performances, including the iconic dekhni and corridinho, which brought the vibrant cultural heritage of Goa to life. Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, reiterated the immense potential of the Bahrain market and shared that the Feels Like Goa narrative places culture, cuisine, heritage, and immersive experiences at the forefront. Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC, highlighted the ongoing upgrades to hospitality infrastructure and the enhancements in residencies and transport services, ensuring improved comfort and reliability for visitors from Bahrain.

One of the major highlights of the evening was the Destination Presentation, featuring specially curated films showcasing Goa’s diverse tourism landscape—from beaches and heritage sites to festive traditions, hinterland attractions, and new experiential initiatives. The program concluded with a lively networking dinner, where trade partners, media, airline representatives, and members of the diaspora engaged with Goa Tourism officials to explore collaborative opportunities and future possibilities for expanding connectivity and tourism offerings.

The Bahrain Roadshow forms a crucial part of Goa Tourism’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the GCC region. With consistent trade engagement, improved air connectivity, and a renewed focus on diversified experiences, Goa continues to position itself as a dynamic, year-round destination for travellers seeking authenticity, culture, and memorable experiences.