PANAJI
Hailing this recognition, the tourism industry has said that Goa has emerged as a 365-day destination, wherein tourists pour in from all around the country.
Rajeev Kale, president & country head, Leisure Travel, MICE, Thomas Cook India, said, “Goa is increasingly emerging as the preferred destination that is favoured by consumers all year round and has more number of repeat clients than any other destination in the domestic travel segment.”
Kale continued, “We continue to see strong uptake for Goa over the last year, with an increase in bookings of up to 15 percent.”
Just a few years ago, tourists wouldn’t come to Goa in the rains, as travelling in the State amidst heavy downpour was seen as a hassle. But, it seems that that trend has been reversed. Amod Thatte, head product, contracting & innovation, SOTC Travel said, “The concept of ‘Goa in the Rains’ is being sold as a domestic package and the State is also rolling out other attractions designed specifically for Indians.”
He continued, “Goa is the most preferred holiday destination, accounting for 38 pecent of total bookings (Leisure + MICE) recorded at SOTC.”
The State government and stakeholders also expressed happiness at the State’s recognition. Manohar Ajgaonkar, tourism minister, said, “Goa Tourism will continue to make this State a hot spot for tourists in the coming months and years through new innovative products and services, tourism infrastructure projects and add more value to its offerings for tourists.”
Savio Messias, president, Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) said,
“This is great news for the tourism industry in Goa and we hope that all stakeholders keep up the good work so that Goa remains the topmost tourism destination in the country.”
