Soon after Goa Tourism revealed statistics showing a 10 percent rise in tourist inflow numbers, the state has now been bestowed with another honour. Conde Nast Traveller, India has declared Goa as the winner of ‘The Best Leisure Destination’ at the Readers’ Travel Awards 2013. This is the second time in a row that Goa has won the award. The state has beaten Kerala, which was also declared as one of the other winners in the category.
Nikhil Desai, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, who acknowledged that the awards were declared at a time when Goa is set to receive a large number of tourists said, “Every Goan is warm and welcoming and this has been our biggest strength. The fact that these awards have been endorsed by readers, who are or have been tourists in Goa, adds credibility to the fact that our state continues to be the destination of choice for travelers in and out of India. We, the Goa Tourism department, realize that with the honour of this award also comes a big responsibility of keeping Goa safe and secure for everyone. The Tourism Department is upgrading facilities, infrastructure and services in the state for the benefit of tourists and residents. We are conscious of the fact that this is the second time we have won this award and will strive to raise the bar higher each year. Our aim is to see Goa continue to being fun-filled destination that attracts visitors from all over the world.”
Plans are on in India’s ‘holiday capital’ to begin the festive season with a bang. The Tourism department is geared up to introduce better facilities and ensure that tourists have an unforgettable experience in the state. The upcoming Feast of St. Francis Xavier will be celebrated at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa. This major feast draws large number of devotees from all over the world in quest for the Saint’s blessings and healing powers. The body of Saint Francis Xavier lies in an exquisite silver casket at the Basilica and will be displayed next year during the Exposition. Christmas, one of the biggest festivals in Goa, will see a different kind of celebrations this year as Goa Tourism is planning something out-of-the-box to usher in cheer.
At the same time, Goa Tourism understands that safety and security of everyone in the state is of prime importance. The state is going all out to ensure safety and security of tourists and residents during the peak season. Soon, women taxi drivers will be operating in the cities of Panjim, Margao, Mapusa and Vasco, for exclusive use of women passengers and families. The service is being introduced by Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) in collaboration with Green Earth Translogistic Pvt Ltd (GETPL). The coastline of Goa is under strict vigilance of coast guards to ensure the safety of each and every person visiting the beaches. The IRB personnel will be on duty 24/7 to ensure that no hindrances are caused and that travellers enjoy their stay here in Goa.
