Does Goa require high-end tourists? If yes, do you think it will improve the tourism scenario in the state?
Mathew Samuels: High-end tourism is good. But then it also requires high investments. The question is who is going to benefit from it? According to me only a few big chains will benefit. Local people in the business will get affected.
TG: So is low-end tourism the answer?
MS: Personally, there is nothing wrong with low-end tourism. It benefits the entire society. Money trickles into the hands of local Goans. It brings about social change. But, low-end tourism needs to be environmentally friendly.
TG: Do you think that Goa needs to rebrand and reposition itself?
MS: Yes. We need to reposition and re-brand Goa. We need to see the kind of message we are sending out. Beginning from policy to publicity, change is needed. We are bringing order into some sectors of tourism. This will change the way people do business. Tourism is a product one has to be extremely careful about.
TG: Goa’s USP has always been its hard party scene. Is this good or bad for the state?
MS: States like Kerala and Pondicherry have developed their USPs on ayurveda and spirituality. For Goa it is partying. When people come to Goa they can let their hair down. It is the playground for the new generation. One cannot say it is good or bad.
TG: Do you think the administration needs to get tough on drugs and flesh trade?
MS: If you don’t want to have drugs and flesh trade, then you need to get tough. It is not going to be easy.
TG: You head art, culture and archives. Do you plan to integrate the departments?
MS: It is important these departments work together. We are trying to work with various heritage groups. Old houses lying vacant can be converted into beautiful boutique heritage hotels and home stays. It will attract a different type of tourists.
TG: Besides beach tourism, can Goa develop tourism in other sectors?
MS: Beach tourism is going to remain for a long time. But, beach tourism is killing the very product. Goa is endowed with natural beauty, the ghats and vibrant heritage history. We have to strike out on our own. People should be encouraged to venture into building forest lodges, heritage trails etc. Goa should develop seasonal hill stations in the Western Ghats. Stress should be given to living closer to nature.
