Tag: World Tourism Day

EduConnect

St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa Hosts X’plorateur 2025: A Regenerative Vision for Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

In a celebration of innovation, sustainability, and student excellence, the Department of BBA (Travel & Tourism) at St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, hosted its national-level event X’plorateur 2025 on September 26th and 27th. Timed to align with World Tourism Day, the two-day program was guided by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” and inspired by the college’s own vision, “A Regenerative Vision for Goa.”

The event served as a platform for students to explore how tourism can not only be sustainable but regenerative — restoring and preserving Goa’s ecological and cultural wealth. The inaugural ceremony was attended by dignitaries from the college along with Chief Guest Mr. Pifran Fernandes, Owner of Tree House Goa. The program featured cultural performances, a magazine launch, and inspiring talks that highlighted the need for tourism models that go beyond conservation and actively improve the communities and environments they touch.

Over the course of two days, student teams from Goa and Karnataka participated in a wide array of activities designed to test creativity, knowledge, and teamwork — all centered around sustainable tourism. The competitions included quizzes, debates, business pitch contests, eco-painting, stress challenges, and a fashion show that celebrated eco-conscious design and storytelling.

The event concluded with a thrilling award ceremony where Team Desert Dynamos from KLE College of Business Administration, Hubli, Karnataka, were crowned Overall Champions. The Runners-up title went to Team Moonlight Mavericks from Srinivassa Sinai Dempo College of Commerce & Economics, Goa. The level of creativity, critical thinking, and passion displayed throughout the event underscored the deep commitment of young minds to shape a more responsible future for tourism in India.

X’plorateur 2025 not only brought academic communities together but also reaffirmed the role of educational institutions in leading the charge toward a tourism industry that regenerates — rather than depletes — the places we cherish most.

Travel

Goa Tourism Celebrates World Tourism Day 2025 with Grand Stakeholders’ Meet and Felicitations

Tanisha Cardozo

On September 27, 2025, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in association with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and SKAL International Goa, marked the culmination of month-long World Tourism Day celebrations with the largest-ever Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa. The event brought together key leaders from the government, tourism industry, academia, influencers, and community-based tourism networks for a day of reflection, recognition, and renewed vision.

The Hon’ble Tourism Minister, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, delivered a powerful address underlining the essential ecosystem that powers Goa’s tourism — from entrepreneurs and hoteliers to drivers, lifeguards, fishermen, and culinary professionals. Highlighting this year’s theme, he spoke about tourism not just as a business, but as a cultural expression and a shared identity that weaves together stories of the past and aspirations for the future. Emphasizing that Goa is more than just a beach destination, he reiterated the government’s commitment to making Goa a year-round, sustainable, and inclusive destination through initiatives like Unity Mall, Porvorim Town Square, and the Shivaji Maharaja Digital Museum under the Swadesh Darshan program.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, further emphasized that the recognitions awarded on this day were not merely about individual accomplishments but were a celebration of the collective energy that drives Goa’s tourism forward. From students and professionals to influencers and tourism clubs, each individual recognized reflects Goa’s future as a regenerative tourism hub.

The prestigious Shri Vincent Ramos Scholarship was awarded to two meritorious students from the Institute of Hotel Management — Mackenzee Vas and Caitlyn Rosanne Mascarenhas — in the presence of Smt. Deena Ramos, honoring the late visionary’s legacy. Felicitations were also extended to Shri Pele and Shri Parag Ragnekar for their invaluable contributions to Goa Tourism. Noted influencers Smt. Scarlet M. Rose and Shri Moses J. Saldanha were recognized for their unique role in amplifying Goa’s tourism narrative. Additional appreciation was given to Smt. Shishti Sudin Prabhu Desai, Smt. Ashrafi Shetdesai Gaikwad, and Shri Viraj Phadte for their outstanding support.

Youth Tourism Clubs played a pivotal role in the celebrations, and their achievements were recognized through awards to Shri Shail Sawkar of Sridora Caculo College, Smt. Lisa Dias of IHM-Goa, and Dr. Kiran Gaude of P.E.S. Ravi S. Naik College.

The World Tourism Day celebrations will officially conclude with a Grand Finale one-day Film Festival at the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), featuring films that celebrate Goa’s rich cultural and natural heritage. These efforts, led by the Department of Tourism, serve to amplify Goa’s broader vision of “Goa Beyond Beaches,” where tourism becomes a tool for storytelling, regeneration, and inclusive growth.

As stakeholders converged across disciplines and interests, the spirit of collaboration and gratitude defined the day — reinforcing Goa’s role as a global tourism leader embracing innovation, sustainability, and culture.

Travel

Goa Tourism Highlights Regenerative Tourism Through Rural & Heritage Experiences on World Tourism Day 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Panaji, 26th September 2025 – As part of the World Tourism Day 2025 celebrations, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and SKAL International Goa, curated a vibrant set of immersive experiences focused on community, culture, and sustainability.

A highlight of the celebrations was the rural tourism experience at Mulgao Village. Visitors were guided through a traditional coconut farm where they learned about the production of Virgin Coconut Oil and were introduced to local deities and folk legends that form part of the region’s intangible heritage. The serene natural surroundings and storytelling format gave participants an intimate glimpse into Goa’s agrarian traditions and regenerative tourism practices.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, expressed, “Through such rural experiences, we are showcasing Goa’s authentic culture and supporting local communities. Mulgao exemplifies how heritage and livelihood can go hand in hand when tourism is designed responsibly.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added, “The enthusiastic participation in the Mulgao Village Experience demonstrates the growing appeal of community-based tourism. We will continue to curate such experiences across Goa to highlight our state’s diversity and sustainability practices.”

In parallel, Goa Tourism also organized a special Hop-On Hop-Off (HOHO) Bus Tour for children from Bal Bhavan. This initiative offered young students an exciting, educational journey through key tourist attractions across North Goa. The Hon’ble Minister also took the opportunity to interact with the children and handed out Goa Tourism caps as a souvenir of their experience.

The day’s activities were designed to highlight the broader vision of “Goa Beyond Beaches” and reflect the Department’s commitment to regenerative tourism that prioritizes cultural preservation, environmental care, and inclusive community participation.

Looking ahead, Goa Tourism has lined up a series of events as part of the extended World Tourism Day celebrations. These include scenic boat cruises, a Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa, and a special film festival at ESG that will showcase Goa’s heritage and conservation narratives.

The 2025 edition of World Tourism Day serves as a reaffirmation of Goa’s evolving role as a model for sustainable and community-led tourism in India.

Travel

Goa Tourism Hosts Heritage Walk, Forest Picnic & Carambolim Lake Experience for World Tourism Day 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

As part of the celebrations for World Tourism Day 2025, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), SKAL International Goa, and the Yuva Tourism Club, hosted a series of enriching tourism experiences across the state. These included a captivating Heritage Walk at the Aguad Port & Jail Complex, a tranquil ‘Picnic by the Forest Stream’ in Bicholim, and a serene Nature Experience at Carambolim Lake. Each event was designed to deepen appreciation for Goa’s historical, cultural, and ecological richness.

These initiatives align with Goa Tourism’s vision of promoting regenerative and experiential tourism. By bringing together students, tourism stakeholders, and visitors, the activities encouraged a stronger connection to Goa’s diverse landscapes and stories. The Heritage Walk at Aguad introduced participants to fascinating chapters of Goa’s colonial history, while the forest picnic in Bicholim offered a moment of peace and community in the heart of nature. At Carambolim Lake, visitors learned about the region’s wetland biodiversity, underlining the importance of conservation efforts.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized the importance of such inclusive initiatives in shaping Goa’s tourism identity, noting that blending heritage, nature, and community engagement is key to making tourism meaningful. Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, highlighted how these events foster awareness about sustainability and responsible travel among young participants and tourism partners. He noted the enthusiastic participation from educational institutions and stakeholders as a positive sign for the future of tourism in the state.

The World Tourism Day celebrations will continue in the coming days with a grand Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa and a special Film Festival at the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), showcasing stories of heritage and conservation. These initiatives not only celebrate tourism but also reaffirm Goa’s commitment to fostering a tourism model that is inclusive, sustainable, and deeply rooted in its unique identity.

Events in Goa

Historian Sanjeev Sardesai to Speak on ‘Unknown Goa, Unknown Goenkar’ at Clube Tennis de Gaspar Dias

Tanisha Cardozo

On the occasion of World Tourism Day, historian and heritage promoter Sanjeev Sardesai will deliver a special public lecture titled ‘Unknown Goa, Unknown Goenkar’, hosted at Clube Tennis de Gaspar Dias in Panaji. This engaging session is part of the club’s ongoing centenary celebrations, marking 100 years of cultural and sporting legacy.

Scheduled for Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 6 PM to 7 PM, the event aims to take audiences on a journey into Goa’s lesser-known historical narratives, people, and cultural nuances. Sardesai, known for his deep knowledge of Goan history and his dynamic storytelling, will uncover stories that lie beyond the commonly told tales, offering a fresh and insightful perspective on Goa’s multifaceted identity.

With a career dedicated to preserving and promoting Goan heritage, Sardesai’s talk is expected to explore the hidden layers of Goa’s past—its unsung heroes, vanishing traditions, and overlooked landmarks—inviting attendees to rediscover the richness of the state beyond the familiar.

The talk is open to the public and entry is free, making it an ideal event for history enthusiasts, students, cultural aficionados, and anyone curious about Goa’s roots. As World Tourism Day celebrates cultural exchange and sustainable travel, this lecture offers a meaningful way to reflect on the unique identity of Goa and its people.

For those who cherish Goa not just for its scenic beauty but for its soul, ‘Unknown Goa, Unknown Goenkar’ promises to be an enriching experience.