DEEP WATER GOA TOURISM AS FOOTFALLS DROP
Anytime the subject of Goa is discussed, the word “tourism” instantly springs to mind. The word “tourism” used to evoke happy thoughts, but these days it causes anxiety in people. Goa’s tourism business suffers every year. The government is trying, but it’s only drawing tourists on a tight budget. The commercial exploitation of Goa’s picturesque landscape and reputation as a popular tourist destination has made the situation worse. The tourism industry, which contributes approximately 17% of the state’s GDP, benefits a significant demographic. The only events promoted to attract tourists have been those that revolve around gambling, fun, and partying.
Europeans would usually come to visit us in December and January due to the bitter cold in their home regions. They frequently spent extended periods of time here. They are now complaining about visa-related issues as well.
Despite the lack of official statistics, industry professionals generally believe that there are a number of reasons why customer traffic is declining: Contributing elements include high costs, insufficient state-wide transit options, decaying infrastructure, and the condition of Goa’s beaches, which are arguably the state’s most visited tourist attractions. The perception that Goa is lagging behind other popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia is influenced by all of these factors and more.
Industry insiders claim that Goa is still a well-liked destination in India. Contrary to what some pessimists would have us believe, numerous surveys have shown that tourism, which plays a significant role in Goa’s economy, is not going anywhere anytime soon. Long-term preservation of Goa’s standing as a “hot tourist destination” is fraught with difficulties, particularly in light of competition from Vietnam and Cambodia to the east. Some of these countries do not require a visa for entry.
Goa is up against more competitors as a travel destination from around the world. Due to the availability of visa-free travel options in nations like Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand, Goa is losing its appeal to Indian tourists. International visitors are also less likely to Goa now that Asia is open and less expensive. The director of Brightsun Travel, Sandeep Arora, said that while it is still a well-liked location for conferences and weddings, it does not usually draw as many visitors as it does in December.
The competition has intensified as more and more Indian travelers are heading to far-flung destinations like Bali. On the microblogging site X, a traveler recently commented that Hanoi or Bali would be more affordable than Goa. Another X user who commented on the post stated that although he had visited Bali, Hanoi, and Phuket three times this year, he had only been to Goa once because of its 2.5 times higher cost.
Contemporary Movements and Challenges
Unintentionally, Goa’s quest for exclusivity as a holiday destination has led it to veer away from its accessible beginnings. Goa must reinvent itself to stay competitive in the global tourism market by reintroducing accessible, superior, and exclusive experiences. Comparing with destinations in Southeast Asia can highlight a number of issues, including travel expenses. The already outrageous costs of travel and lodging have increased, with increases to homestays and Airbnb being even more pronounced. The quality is declining in addition to the price increase. Cheap self-drive cars are available from a number of self drive car at mopa airport companies, making them a viable choice for getting around the island.
It is essential to improve safety and security in light of the recent drug abuse and criminality incidents. Cost control is necessary in areas where the problem of public transportation—which includes taxis and car rental at Goa airport—occurs frequently. Due to their low customer volume, local businesses can charge more, but tourists find such prices offensive. Given that Ola and Uber haven’t taken off in the state, the price and safety of Goa’s local transit are quickly becoming crucial factors. Fixing the state’s outdated infrastructure, boosting waste management services, expanding car rental Mopa Airport, and upgrading public transportation can all help create a more positive impression of Goa among tourists.
Changing the Image of Goa
Goa’s tourism needs to be successfully revived through a multifaceted approach. The state of Goa needs to reposition itself as more than just a party destination by showcasing its cultural diversity and promoting responsible tourism in order to appeal to a wider spectrum of domestic consumers. Campaigns that put a premium on luxury travel, thrilling adventures, public health and safety, environmental preservation, and true cultural immersion are necessary to regain the interest of audiences worldwide.
