The highly anticipated Goa International Travel Mart (GITM) 2024 commenced at Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium from 3-4th April, witnessing the presence of prominent industry leaders, government officials, and tourism enthusiasts. A notable focus of this year’s GITM is on regenerative tourism, a paradigm shift towards sustainable practices that prioritize the restoration and revitalization of local ecosystems and communities.
The first day kicked off with the grand inauguration of the Goa Tourism stall, a symbol of the state’s commitment to showcasing its rich cultural heritage and diverse tourism offerings. The stall was inaugurated at the hands of Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director Tourism & Managing Director GTDC; Parag Rangnekar, Member of the Goa Tourism Board; Jack Sukheeja, President-elect of TTAG; Ralph Desouza, Chairman of Desouza Group of Hotels; Mark Mendes, Member of the Goa Tourism Board; Carlos Desouza, Convenor of CII; Deepak Narvekar, and Deputy General Manager of GTDC, alongside other esteemed dignitaries.
Following the inauguration, attendees were treated to a thought-provoking knowledge-sharing session by Travel Trends Today (T3) with a focus on Regenerative Tourism, exploring the evolving landscape of tourism in Goa. This session provided valuable insights into emerging trends and strategies for driving Goa’s tourism industry forward.
Day two of the GITM 2024 witnessed an array of insightful discussions and engaging sessions, further solidifying Goa’s position as a premier tourism destination.
During his address to the guests, the Director highlighted the topic of Regenerative Tourism. “With a steadfast focus on sustainability and responsible travel practices, we envision a tourism sector that is not just economically prosperous but also environmentally and socially conscious. Our commitment to Regenerative Tourism goes beyond mere preservation; it encompasses a holistic approach that seeks to regenerate and rejuvenate our ecosystems, communities, and cultural traditions. Our vision for Goa’s tourism sector is one that harmonizes with nature, respects local cultures, and fosters meaningful connections between visitors and our communities. By embracing Regenerative Tourism, we not only enhance the visitor experience but also ensure the long-term sustainability of our tourism industry.”
He further added, “With a notable attendance of buyers, visitors, and enthusiasts, the event has facilitated a vibrant exchange of ideas and fostered significant networking opportunities. It has been an honor to witness the forging of new partnerships between like-minded individuals and businesses alike, all united in their dedication to showcasing Goa’s unique charm to the world. As we bid farewell to another successful 4th edition, I am filled with optimism for the future of our tourism industry. The momentum and enthusiasm generated by GITM leave me confident that Goa’s potential as a premier destination for regenerative tourism will continue to flourish.”
On 2nd day, the first panel discussion titled ‘New Vision: Strategy, Branding & Promotion’ delved into innovative strategies for promoting tourism in Goa and enhancing its brand identity on a global scale. The plenary session shed light on developing a new vision for branding strategy and promotion that aligns with the core values and objectives of the organization. Following the panel discussion, attendees gathered for Plenary Session II titled ‘Goa: A High Yield Destination’ encapsulated the essence of a destination that not only attracts a significant number of visitors but also offers substantial economic returns and cultural dividends. Elaborating on this topic involved delving into various aspects that contribute to Goa’s status as a high-yield destination, where Goa’s potential as a high-yield tourism destination was explored in depth.
Plenary Session III titled ‘Development of Skills for the Tourism sector in Goa’ was a multifaceted endeavor aimed at enhancing the professionalism, expertise, and service quality within the industry. Elaborating on this topic involved exploring various strategies and initiatives designed to empower individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in diverse roles within the tourism sector.
GITM 2024 Draws Light On Goa’s Tourism Future; Focusses On Regenerative Tourism
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