Is Goa's Tourism Facing a Major Decline with the Drop in International Visitors?
Goa, once a bustling hub of international tourism, is now witnessing a significant decline in foreign visitor numbers. Local industry experts and tourists share their insights on what could be causing this trend and how Goa can reclaim its lost charm.
Goa TourismInternational TouristsReal EstateDeclineTourism IndustryReal EstateNov 06, 2024
What we are doing in the real estate industry is wrong. Just indiscriminate constructions, high-rise buildings... why would people want to come to Goa? Do we want to make Goa like Mumbai or Delhi? Even in my place, politicians offered me to change the zone so I could put up a five-story building, but I said no. We said no because culture, art, music, and the people are what Goa is known for. If that is going to go, tourism footfalls will undoubtedly drop. At the same time, numbers are not everything. We need quality tourism, people who will spend money.
Armando Gonsalves, a member of Goa ForGiving, emphasizes that a tourist destination is a fashion. It has been fashionable with the UK market, the German market, and the Scandinavians at different times. Goa will go through cycles, and the same clientele may return. The industry needs to analyze why they have lost international tourists. Is it because of the pressure on infrastructure or the garbage on the beaches? The most important thing to attract foreign tourists is cleanliness.
Aloo Gomes Pereira, a former tourism stakeholder, reiterates that cleanliness is crucial. In 2019, 8.5 million tourists visited Goa. By 2023, this number had plummeted to 1.5 million. While the drop was expected due to post-Covid economic conditions, the government of Goa has invested between Rs 100 to 200 crores in attracting tourists, but the response has not been commensurate. Foreign tourists used to spend more, and even domestic tourists are now contributing to the economy. However, the question remains where are we falling short?
Tanoj Adwalpalkar, a social activist, points out that tourists used to come to see the natural beauty of Goa. But today, non-Goan builders have portrayed Goa as a real estate hub. This shift in perception is affecting the tourism industry. Goa's natural beauty and cultural heritage need to be preserved to attract the right kind of tourists.
In conclusion, Goa's tourism industry needs a holistic approach to address the decline. It's not just about infrastructure and cleanliness; it's about preserving the unique identity and charm that make Goa a sought-after destination. Only by doing so can Goa reclaim its position in the global tourism market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the decline in international tourists in Goa?
The decline in international tourists is attributed to several factors, including indiscriminate real estate development, infrastructural pressure, and a lack of cleanliness on beaches. Rising competition from more affordable Southeast Asian destinations has also played a role.
How has the government of Goa responded to the decline in tourism?
The government of Goa has invested between Rs 100 to 200 crores in attracting tourists, though the response has not been as expected. Efforts are also being made to improve infrastructure and cleanliness to enhance the visitor experience.
Why is preserving Goa's natural beauty important for tourism?
Preserving Goa's natural beauty and cultural heritage is crucial because these are the primary attractions for tourists. Non-Goan builders portraying Goa as a real estate hub is affecting the industry, and a focus on preserving these elements is necessary to attract the right kind of tourists.
What role do local activists and stakeholders play in addressing the decline in tourism?
Local activists and stakeholders are advocating for responsible development and the preservation of Goa's unique identity. They are raising awareness about the negative impacts of indiscriminate constructions and the importance of maintaining cleanliness and cultural integrity.
What steps can be taken to revive Goa's tourism industry?
To revive Goa's tourism industry, a holistic approach is needed. This includes improving infrastructure, enhancing cleanliness, and preserving natural beauty and cultural heritage. Additionally, marketing efforts should focus on attracting high-quality tourists who will spend more and contribute positively to the local economy.
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