The Goan Network
Goa is a destination for all seasons. And, it is also a place, which lets you discover the contrasts. This was the key message of a presentation made by Nikhil Desai, managing director, Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC).
Desai was speaking to media delegates from all over the world at the ongoing Goa International Travel Mart (GITM).
He said, “Goa has a lot of things for everybody. From 25,000 years old human settlements to the quietest beaches. From 300-year old Portuguese houses to some of the busiest flea markets. From lush green mountains to rain-soaked fishing spots.”
Desai highlighted that Goa has the best of local cuisine, but it also offers international flavours; it has some of the oldest churches and it also has ancient temples; it has beaches on one side and Western Ghats on the other.
When it comes to ancient religious sites, Goa has a lot to offer. For example: the State has The Se Cathedral, The Basilica of Bom Jesus, Mangueshi Temple and also The Relics of Tambdi Surla.
Apart from religious sites, Goa is famous for its beaches. Some of them have been awarded as the best beaches in the world.
Desai said, “four of Goan beaches are in the top 25 beaches in the whole of Asia. Beaches such as Agonda, Varca, Cavellosim and Benaulim are known for their pristine beauty.”
In his presentation, he credited the introduction of e-tourist visa for making it easier for tourists to come to India. Giving delegates an idea of hotel accommodation in the State, Desai said Goa has 3,835 registered hotels, close to 72,000 beds and 12% of them are in 5-star hotels.
He further said, “We began as a beach destination when hippies came here in late 1960s to Anjuna and Vagator. Because of that, we started getting lot of domestic tourists, who also appreciated our unique culture. Seeing tourists, local villagers spotted opportunities and seeds of tourism industry were sown.”
