Goa may lose global tourism market, fears industry
PTI, PANAJI | 20 October 2011 18:22 IST
The tourism industry here feels that Goa will lose its position as the most preferred holiday destination to competitors, if it does not market itself aggressively on a global level.
Manguirish Pai Raikar, chief of Goa chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) said the competition in the region is growing manifold.
"If Goa needs to be on the radar of foreign tourists, we need to create a space for them," he said hinting at providing alternatives like hinterlands.
Goa has been receiving four lakh foreign tourists annually, of which 40 per cent are repeat clienteles, the industry players say.
With the traditional markets like the UK shrinking, the state is finding solace in the form of Russians, who crossed half a lakh mark during last tourist season.
Raikar said South Asian countries, which are competitive tourist destinations, are trying to woo visitors, who have been traditionally coming to Goa.
"We need to provide them a different profile so that they come here time and again," he said.
The GCCI chief said that the Goa International Travel Mart (GITM), a three day event which starts tomorrow, is happening at a right time when industry needs to fortify its marketing strategies.
The state tourism industry has now decided to diversify from its conventional beach tourism, which has been nurtured around the 105-km long coastline, with two dozen famous beaches.
Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) Goa Chief Ralf D�Souza said the Goa tourism industry cannot be lethargic in its promotions.
"If we are lax then we are in for a big surprise and that will be a shock," D�Souza, a hotel owner himself, said.
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Tourism can definetely be promoted the right way, but is that happening here, Mr. D'Souza, as an hoteleir you should be aware, that when speaking about holidaying in Goa, the state can be shown in a better picture.
- Anthony Crasto, Chennai | 22 nd October 2011 17:59
Opening up sponsored brothels, more gambling dens, more free flowing liquor, more easily available drugs and liberal attitude with criminal elements could definitely attract more tourists......Why not ask for subsidy to all these activities...?
- vishwas prabhudesai, loliem | 21 st October 2011 09:11
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