PANAJI
Uncertainty shrouds the ongoing tourist season’s first charter from Israel -- scheduled in November -- owing to the Israel-Palestine war, raising concerns among stakeholders. The repercussions would be the second in two years as the Russia-Ukraine conflict hampered the arrivals of bulk tourists from the two nations during the last season.
“Any war-like situation tends to have a negative impact on tourism. The war could affect the tourism industry, including arrivals from other countries as well if the situation escalates…” said President of the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) Nilesh Shah expressing concerns about the development.
Other stakeholders from the shacks and hotel sectors also shared these worries, emphasising that conflicts like these not only affect that specific country but can impact overall tourism across other countries.
The impact of the Russia-Ukraine war was such that 5-6 charter flights per day from in and adjoining parts of Russia were reduced to just six flights per week, during the last season.
Goa receives a considerable number of Israeli tourists, known for their high spending and often found away from crowded places. “We fear the impact on arrivals from other countries as well…War affects all nations, not just one or two,” President of Shack Owners Welfare Society Cruz Cardozo said.
The charter from Israel next month was expected to get a minimum of 250 passengers to Goa. More charter flights besides scheduled ones were also lined up and the prolonged war could lead to losses in this tourist segment.
“While the exact extent of the impact can’t be quantified, it is expected to affect not just Goa and India but also have worldwide repercussions,” Shah added.
President of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Goa Gaurish Dhond shared similar views, adding that like other foreign nationals, the stay period of Israelis is around 7-14 days.
“They are decent and high-spending tourists. Israelis do come in sizable numbers and during their stay period, they also visit adjoining parts of Goa,” he said.
