The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has unveiled the state’s Sustainable Tourism Initiatives at the recently concluded Arabian Travel Market (ATM 2024) in Dubai, hosted from May 6th to May 9th, 2024, at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), UAE.
Mr Sanjay Sudhir, the Indian Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates inaugurated the Goa pavilion in the presence of Mr Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director Tourism & Managing Director GTDC, Mr Shawn Mendes, OSD to Tourism Minister, and Mrs. Chitra Vengurlekar, Assistant Tourist Officer, Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, among other dignitaries from Incredible India, marked a significant occasion. This ceremonial event underscored the unity and collaborative spirit driving sustainable tourism initiatives, reaffirming the commitment to showcase Goa’s cultural heritage and natural beauty on a global scale.
The Goa Pavilion captivated visitors with its innovative initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable tourism practices, offering a comprehensive view beyond the beaches into Goa’s diverse offerings. From hinterland exploration to spiritual tourism, the pavilion showcased Regenerative Tourism concepts, the Ekadasha Teertha circuit with all 11 temples, and insights into the upcoming St. Francis Xavier Exposition.
Moreover, visitors explored Goa’s picturesque settings for destination weddings, and state-of-the-art facilities for hosting corporate events, conferences, and exhibitions, positioning the region as an ideal MICE destination in the global market. Interactions with the dynamic Goan diaspora bolstered Goa’s standing as a leading sustainable tourism destination, further solidifying its position in the industry.
Mr. Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director Tourism & Managing Director GTDC, remarked, “The overwhelming reception of our presence at ATM Dubai provided a valuable platform to showcase our sustainable tourism endeavours to a global audience. Goa cherishes both environmental conservation and cultural preservation, and our interactions with industry leaders, travellers, and stakeholders have strengthened our resolve to advance sustainable tourism initiatives. The Department of Tourism remains committed to incorporating innovative practices that enrich the visitor experience while safeguarding Goa’s natural and cultural heritage for future generations.”
The Goa Pavilion had the honour of hosting an interaction with Sandiaga Uno, the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia. This exchange emphasized the importance of international cooperation in advancing sustainable tourism practices and fostering cultural exchange between nations. The shared dedication to nurturing environmental conservation, advancing cultural appreciation, and enhancing the quality of tourism experiences marked pivotal moments in fostering enduring alliances and propelling joint endeavours towards a globally sustainable and culturally enriched tourism environment.
The Goa Tourism Pavilion played a central role in facilitating meaningful connections and exchanging valuable insights. Against the backdrop of the event’s vibrant energy, the objective was to actively engage stakeholders, industry partners, and enthusiasts, fostering dialogue and collaboration. Through the sharing of experiences, initiatives, and success stories, these efforts sparked positive change within the tourism industry. From community-based projects to conservation endeavours, the goal was to enhance the holistic approach guiding the vision for sustainable tourism. Additionally, the Goa Pavilion was complemented by an array of co-exhibitors, including Spice Route Tours and Travels, Yoska (Ironman 70.3), and Sunset Getaways, enriching the experience and offering visitors a holistic view of Goa’s cultural and economic landscape. Their presence deepened the collaborative spirit driving Goa’s tourism industry, emphasizing the importance of partnership in promoting responsible travel and fostering community development.
Goa’s participation at ATM Dubai 2024 marked a significant milestone in its journey towards sustainable tourism development. The Department of Tourism, Goa, looks forward to continuing its efforts to promote responsible travel practices and showcase the unique offerings of Goa to the world.
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