PANAJI
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte’s concern over the loss of affluent Russians to Dubai has sparked discussions among stakeholders, who are questioning Goa’s basic infrastructure and its ability to compete with neighbouring holiday destinations.
While the minister is looking at examining why tourists are giving Goa a miss, the industry wants Goa to promptly address infrastructure deficiencies to stay competitive and maintain its allure as a much sought-after vacation spot.
To lure wealthy tourists, Goa would need to sell attractions other than just its beaches. Heritage, culture, and gastronomy are some areas, tourism insiders said but admitted that Goa has never created any tourist attractions that would draw visitors, relying solely on the natural coastal beauty, with some attention given to heritage.
Goa’s biggest umbrella group of travel and tour operators “ Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) has called for investing in developing robust infrastructure and services that cater to the needs of ‘well-behaved tourists.’
According to TTAG President Nilesh Shah, the focus should be on attracting responsible tourists who contribute to the State’s economy. “There’s no point in talking about rich tourists but we need well-behaved tourists, who will not only give economy to the State but also keep the overall environment of Goa intact. Sustainability is the key,” he said while speaking to The Goan.
Shah emphasized that attracting quality tourists depends on providing basic infrastructure such as proper roads, uninterrupted power and water supply, efficient sewerage systems, and well-maintained changing rooms, etc. “There has to be strict enforcement of the ban on using liquor bottles on beaches and public places to maintain a clean and safe environment,” he added.
Prominent businessman and Chief Operating Officer of SITA Travels Ernest Dias also acknowledged that Goa is losing out on well-to-do tourists due to shortcomings in its infrastructure.
Goa faces competition from neighbouring countries like Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Mauritius, Maldives, and Thailand, as well as from other Indian states like Rajasthan and Kerala. Shah added that to stay ahead, Goa needs to constantly be vigilant and proactive in enhancing its tourism offerings.
“We will have competition be it Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Mauritius, Maldives, Thailand, etc ... Not only as a beach destination but even MICE and weddings. We have to be on our toes. Other places are open for visitors with everything in place and at affordable rates. Forget about Dubai, we have domestic competitors too,” Shah added.
The TTAG also emphasized the importance of enhancing transport facilities. Travel agency Goa Adventure Club (GAC) agreed that Goa is losing some ‘rich tourists’ but cautioned against comparing Goa to Dubai, which is a commercial city with a unique global appeal.
“Dubai has been the midpoint of tourism for the world. It is not appropriate to compare ourselves with Dubai,” GAC Managing Director Ahraz Mulla said.
He also added that Goa needs to uplift infrastructure which will then give a favourable twist to tourism in the State and sought to promote Goa differently given that Goa has natural beauty, unlike places like Dubai where beaches are man-made. “We have to show our uniqueness, not to compare with others,” he added.
Another trader added that Goa should also look at entertainment other than just late night parties and crowded events. "We should market it well on the international platform instead of repeating what is known to the world," he said.
