Muscat: Tourism authorities from Goa, a state in western India with coastlines stretching along the Arabian Sea, expressed their interest in bolstering bilateral tourism ties between the two countries with a successful roadshow last week.
A 'Goa Evening’ and road show was conducted at the Crowne Plaza Muscat, where attendees experienced a glimpse of Goa's vibrant culture through traditional folk performances, a destination presentation, and a networking dinner.
The Goa Tourism roadshow was aimed at reinforcing its commitment to promoting the then-Portuguese colony which has the largest number of beautiful coastal tourism options as a premier tourism destination in the Middle East.
The roadshow served as a strategic platform to engage with key travel trade professionals, tour operators, media representatives, and potential investors, highlighting Goa's diverse tourism offerings ranging from popular stretches at Baga and Palolem to those in laid-back fishing villages such as Agonda, and the preserved 17th-century churches and the area’s tropical spice plantations, and emerging opportunities.
The event held under Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director GTDC, and leading stakeholders from Oman's travel and hospitality industry, witnessed an overwhelming response from the Oman tourism fraternity as well as wanderlusts.
The Goa Tourism delegation was accompanied by the members of the Travel Trade Association led by TTAG President Jack Sukhija, and others comprising charter operators, hoteliers, and travel agents.
The roadshow featured an engaging networking session, where key discussions revolved around new tourism initiatives, including regenerative tourism, eco-tourism circuits, and the promotion of niche segments such as wellness tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural heritage experiences.
Tavishi Bahl, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of India in Muscat, addressed the gathering where she highlighted the growing tourism and cultural ties between Oman and Goa.
Speaking to the Observer, Rohan A Khaunte, Goan Minister of Tourism said, "Goa is evolving beyond its beaches to offer a diverse and enriching tourism experience from the serene charm of our hinterlands and spiritual circuits to world-class infrastructure for MICE tourism. Through this roadshow in Oman, we aim to strengthen ties with the Middle East market, inviting travellers and businesses alike to discover Goa's vibrant culture, natural beauty, and growing potential as a holistic tourism destination."
"Goa continues to position itself as a global tourism hub, offering diverse experiences beyond its beaches. Goa has always been a melting pot of cultures, offering visitors a blend of rich heritage, serene landscapes, and immersive experiences. Through strategic international engagements, we aim to strengthen tourism partnerships, enhance connectivity, and showcase our commitment to regenerative and sustainable tourism,” said Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism.
Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC, in his keynote address, emphasised Goa's position as a world-class tourism destination and highlighted new initiatives under the Regenerative Tourism model. "Oman is an important market for Goa, and we are committed to strengthening tourism collaboration between our regions. The response from Oman's travel trade community has been overwhelmingly positive. We look forward to welcoming more visitors from Oman and working closely with stakeholders to create customized experiences that showcase Goa's rich cultural and natural heritage"
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