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<keyword id="19895061" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="goa" source="keywords">Goa</keyword> is a popular tourism destination in India and is known for its gorgeous beaches, nightlife, and food. The popular destination hosts millions of tourists every year and for some, it is just a couple hours of drive away. However, international travellers don't find it that easy to get to the destination, as per a new PTI report. The report says that even though Goa is increasingly a popular choice for international travellers, it requires government support to make it more accessible to foreigners. <br /><br />In a media statement, the department said that charter flights from key markets like Russian cities Moscow and Ekaterinburg, London, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan, support international arrivals. A Polish charter flight is also set to arrive in the coastal state on November 8.<br /><br />The statement added that this international interest extends beyond Goa’s iconic beaches, with tourists increasingly exploring areas like Dudhsagar Falls and scenic hinterlands. To further boost connectivity, Goa is collaborating with airlines and seeking government support to improve flight routes, creating a more globally connected tourism landscape.<br /><br />"However, establishing robust direct international connectivity requires further support from the Government of India, which we are actively seeking to make Goa an even more attractive, accessible, and globally connected destination," a spokesperson said.<br /><br />He added that after pandemic disruptions, Goa’s international tourism is rebounding, with over 450,000 foreign arrivals recorded in 2023. Alongside domestic visitors, totaling over 8 million this year, the state’s tourism sector is also thriving. Addressing challenges like limited direct flights, Goa’s tourism officials are working to secure new airline agreements, ensuring an easier journey for international visitors.<br /><br />He also talked about the challenges that the tourism destination is facing, including limited connectivity by air. <br /><br />"Goa does face some challenges. For example, limited scheduled international air connectivity. The state government is working closely with the Centre to relook at point of call and additional seat entitlement for Goa, to establish more robust international connections," he said.<br /><br />(with PTI inputs)<br />

This Indian state is attracting international tourists via chartered flights, needs support to make itself more accessible

The Karnataka government is considering proposals to allow tents and <keyword id="21356640" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="alcohol-sales" source="keywords">alcohol sales</keyword> on the state's beaches, similar to <keyword id="19895061" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Goa" source="keywords">Goa</keyword>, in an effort to boost tourism. Speaking at the 'Connect 2024' event in <keyword id="19936741" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mangalore" source="keywords">Mangalore</keyword> on Wednesday, Rajendra K V, tourism department's director, emphasised that changes are necessary to attract tourists. <br /><br />"We need to relax restrictions on alcohol consumption along the beaches of Karnataka, which may bring more influx of tourists just like in the state of Goa," he added. <br /><br />According to him, to enhance safety and encourage people to spend more time at the beaches during the night, the department is contemplating the installation of additional lights along the coast. <br /><br />District officials have been instructed to identify government and private lands near beaches to promote <keyword id="23668481" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tent-tourism" source="keywords">tent tourism</keyword> in the state. <br /><br />Rajendra also revealed that a facilitation centre would soon be established to expedite approvals for tourism projects, including CRZ (<keyword id="20495401" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Coastal-Regulation-Zone" source="keywords">Coastal Regulation Zone</keyword>) permissions. <br /><br />He added that the new <keyword id="20021259" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tourism-policy" source="keywords">tourism policy</keyword> will include specific guidelines for coastal tourism. <br /><br />Deputy Commissioner of Dakshina Kannada, Mullai Muhilan, said tourists should be allowed access to beaches late at night. <br /><br />"Restaurant and licensed business operating hours in Mangalore city have already been extended to 1 am and the same should apply to the beaches as well," he added. <br /><br />He further stated that discussions would be held with the police department to resolve issues regarding the current restrictions on <keyword id="22266283" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="beach-access" source="keywords">beach access</keyword> after 9 pm and appropriate action would be taken.

Karnataka to go Goa way and allow alcohol sales in coastal cities to lure tourists

In 2007, <keyword id="21532126" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="brian-chesky" source="keywords">Brian Chesky</keyword> and Joe Gebbia, two hustlers in San Francisco, were struggling to pay their rent. To make ends meet, they devised a creative solution: renting out air mattresses in their living room to travellers. This simple yet innovative idea, dubbed "Air Bed &amp; Breakfast," aimed to offer affordable lodging options by leveraging the unused space in people's homes. It created a new industry in itself and made <keyword id="19900375" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="AirBnB" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="AirBnB" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="AirBnB">AirBnB</keyword> a startup worth dozens of Billions. <br /><br />But it did create a dilemma for travellers! As the service quality tends to vary quite a lot based on the location and the host, how can you be sure that your stay will be comfortable?<br /><h2>A monsoon staycation in <keyword id="19895061" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="goa" source="keywords">Goa</keyword></h2>In mid-August, my friend and I planned a week-long budget staycation in Goa to relish the monsoons and enjoy the hospitality of this tourist paradise of India. But the very first day, the long and arduous bus travel from Goa’s Dabolim airport to our AirBnB in Palolem wringed out every bit of our zeal for adventure from our bodies.<br /><br />It was dark, raining cats and dogs and we could not see a thing on our two-wheeler journey from the bus stop to our AirBnB. Only our strong desire to find a mattress (hopefully dry) to rest our weary backs on got us to our destination.<br /><br />It was 10 PM when we reached our homestay and it was still raining, giving us a real taste of the Goan monsoon we were so eager to experience. The caretaker was nowhere to be found, but our host assured us via WhatsApp that all had been taken care of and that we just needed to get the keys from the security guard stationed outside the gated community.<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112809655" title="Hosts have ruined Airbnb with excessive fees, high demands, and bad customer service, travel experts say" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><br /><h2>Struggles at the Goa AirBnB<br /></h2>Soaked to our bones and shivering, we were quick to follow his bidding. As the key turned in the door, I was already thrumming with excitement at the prospect of a hot bath and warm blankets. However, as we stepped inside, the musty scents of mould and rotting wood hit our nostrils. Still optimistic, we warily ventured inside, reassuring each other that the room just needed a little bit of airing out.<br /><br />Peak monsoon was still in its last vestiges and the place had been closed for a long time, it was only normal for the place to smell musty, we comforted each other. But once we’d taken care of our sodden selves and equally sodden luggage, we got a closer look at our accommodation — the one we had booked after much deliberation and thoroughly going through the reviews. The place didn’t just reek of mould, the black stuff was everywhere and the smell wasn’t going anywhere.<br /><br />One asthmatic looked to the other, knowing that staying here for the entire duration of our trip was out of the question. Amongst them, the socially awkward one told the people-pleasey one to speak with the host and inform him of what was going on. When we texted our “superhost”, he offered to shift us to another property he owned in the same building. But lo and behold, that flat was just as bad, if not worse.<br /><br />We finally made the tough call of possibly upsetting our host and asking for a refund so we could find another property. Simultaneously speaking with him and AirBnB <keyword id="19925749" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="customer-support" source="keywords">customer support</keyword>, we shared why we couldn’t continue our stay there and attached a bunch of pictures — clearly displaying the mould and dust.<br /><br />The response was pleasantly surprising!<br /><h2>Experience with the customer service</h2>The customer service executive immediately agreed to cancel our reservation and our host agreed to refund all of our money as well. In the meantime, we were panicking about finding another accommodation in the short window of time we had. Every passing moment felt like we were inching closer to a night stranded in the storm.<br /><br />Our refund was guaranteed, but there was a twist! The hosting platform said that it would need about 2 weeks to process our refund. And since we were overly confident about our meticulous planning, we didn’t have enough cash to book a whole other property without the refund.<br /><br />We communicated the same to our hosting partner’s customer service and they turned out to be empathetic to our situation. After much back and forth, mostly to get a better understanding of our situation, and which location we wanted to shift to, we finally went to bed at the same property, hoping for amicable resolution in the morning.<br /><br />Within a few hours, the AirBnB asked for our preferences for relocation. We also spoke with our potential new host to make sure their place was mould-free. Soon, customer service got back to us saying that they had reserved the new accommodation for the rest of our week-long trip and also gave us a “one-time courtesy” coupon for the same amount that the new place would cost us.<br /><br />It slowly dawned on us that this meant that our stay would be practically free! All the hopelessness from starting the trip full of rain and rot turned into glee and we wasted no time packing up our bags and riding off to our new destination — which turned out to be much cleaner, mould-free and in a much better location!<br /><h2>Takeaway</h2>Our main takeaway from the whole experience was that you cannot research a place enough! When looking at reviews, firstly make sure that there are enough of them, and then ensure that they’re recent. Read between the lines and ask your potential host very specific questions. Most importantly, document any issues that you’re having immediately because Airbnb generally sides with the guest <em>if </em>there’s clear evidence, as per reports.<br /><br />Have a few alternative listings saved in case something goes wrong, especially during peak travel times or in popular locations and keep some extra funds handy for emergencies, like needing to book a hotel for a night while sorting out an issue with Airbnb or the host. This way, you can possibly skirt past the problems we faced during our stay and increase your chances of having a positive homestay experience!<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112495578" title="Airbnb&amp;#39;s struggles go beyond people spending less. They&amp;#39;re losing some travelers to hotels." mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><br />

An AirBnB property almost ruined our Goa staycation, but customer support saved the day with another free accommodation!

The former <keyword id="19935584" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="RSS-chief" source="keywords">RSS chief</keyword>, <keyword id="23419565" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Subhash-Velingkar" source="keywords">Subhash Velingkar</keyword>, recently stirred significant controversy by demanding a <keyword id="20615498" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="DNA-test" source="keywords">DNA test</keyword> on the relics of <keyword id="23459102" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="St-Francis-Xavier" source="keywords">St. Francis Xavier</keyword>. Velingkar claims that the test would confirm the authenticity of the remains, but his statement has triggered protests and condemnation from Goa’s <keyword id="19935795" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Catholic-community" source="keywords">Catholic community</keyword>, who view it as a direct affront to their faith. This article will explore the significance of St. Francis Xavier in Goa, examine the implications of a DNA test, and review the political and social reactions to Velingkar's statement.<br /><h2>St. Francis Xavier in Goa</h2>St. Francis Xavier, one of the most venerated Catholic saints in the world, arrived in Goa in 1542 as a Jesuit missionary. He played a crucial role in establishing Christianity in Goa and spreading it across Asia. Known for his compassion and selfless dedication, he is affectionately referred to by Goans as “Goencho Saib” (Protector of Goa).<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112672114" title="“Please do not photograph our homes!” plead Goa’s homeowners" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>His relics, preserved at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, draw millions of pilgrims from across the globe. The relics are especially significant because, every ten years, they are publicly displayed during the Exposition, a major religious event that unites the community in faith and reverence.<br /><h2>What is a DNA test, and what could it prove?</h2>A DNA test involves analysing genetic material to establish relationships, origins, or identity. DNA testing on human remains can reveal biological data such as ancestry, possible familial connections, or genetic characteristics. In this case, Velingkar’s call for a DNA test is ostensibly aimed at verifying whether the relics truly belong to St. Francis Xavier.<br /><br />However, such a test would be challenging because it would require preserved genetic material, which might not be feasible — although doable under the right conditions — after nearly 450 years. The main issue is that without direct descendants or known relatives, a DNA test would have limited capacity to “prove” the relics' authenticity definitively. Many Goans argue that such a test is unnecessary, given the historical and religious context of the relics and the deep spiritual significance they hold.<br /><h2>Protests across Goa and political fallout</h2>Velingkar’s remarks have provoked a backlash, with protests erupting across Goa. Demonstrators in Margao and Canacona have voiced their anger, demanding Velingkar be arrested for offending their <keyword id="19978801" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="religious-sentiments" source="keywords">religious sentiments</keyword>. At these gatherings, local leaders have condemned his statements, arguing that he is attempting to provoke divisions in Goa’s harmonious society. Some have also called for Velingkar to undergo psychological evaluation, questioning his motives and the wisdom of his demand for a DNA test.<br /><br />While Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has assured the public that legal action will be taken, some community members remain sceptical, perceiving a lack of urgency. The Congress party has criticised the BJP-led state government, accusing it of neglecting the issue to avoid alienating potential voter bases.<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111809476" title="Why is a music festival causing controversy in Goa?" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>The controversy has also cast a spotlight on the BJP’s stance toward the Catholic community, particularly considering how the state was mum for an exceedingly long time on their intentions to invite Pope Francis to the upcoming Exposition. This hesitation and the ongoing controversy has compounded frustrations among Goans, leading to questions about the government’s respect for religious diversity in the state.<br /><br />Goa’s history is marked by religious tolerance and a unique blending of cultures. The Catholic Church has played a pivotal role in maintaining peace and fostering unity across different communities in the state. By calling for a DNA test on the relics of a beloved saint, many argue that Velingkar risks jeopardising this delicate balance. Religious leaders have warned against divisive rhetoric, underscoring that Goa’s strength lies in its ability to maintain harmony among its diverse population.<br />

Goa protests: Why is an ex-RSS chief demanding to DNA test the body of a 450-year-old sacred saint?

To call <keyword id="19895061" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Goa" source="keywords">Goa</keyword> beautiful would be the grossest of understatements. Its nearly untamed greenery, expansive beaches and vibrant, stately buildings are a sight for sore eyes. And tourists can hardly resist the allure of photographing or getting photographed against the backdrop of colonial-era architecture. But how do Goa’s <keyword id="19907251" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="residents" source="keywords">residents</keyword> feel about the constant barrage of camera shutters going off around them?<br /><h2>Fed up of being the backdrop</h2>North Goan headquarters <keyword id="20144307" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Panjim" source="keywords">Panjim</keyword> is a bustling hub of activity, its “Latin Quarter” a particular favourite for tourists looking to take in São Tomé and Fontainhas. It’s pretty commonplace to see people posing in front of these lanes to get that perfect Instagram shot. Sadly, this relentless influx of visitors has transformed the once peaceful neighbourhood into a noisy and intrusive environment for its residents.<br /><br />In recent times, many Goan residents have started to keep their doors and windows tightly shut, trying to shield themselves from the noise and constant disruptions. A walk around Panjim would reveal a number of residential buildings sporting a “No Photography/Videography” sign, but these are often ignored by tourists who brazenly pose next to them. The blatant disregard for the residents' privacy by some tourists has led to frequent confrontations, leaving locals frustrated and fed up.<br /><br />If it were just one or two tourists coming once every month and photographing your house, you would feel happy to let them. But when hundreds come every single day, it becomes a nuisance, rues a Panjim resident.<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111809476" title="Why is a music festival causing controversy in Goa?" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><h2><keyword id="22861081" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="invasive-tourism" source="keywords">Invasive tourism</keyword><br /></h2>The situation has escalated to the point where the charm of living in these historic neighbourhoods is overshadowed by the daily challenges posed by “invasive <keyword id="19997361" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tourism" source="keywords">tourism</keyword>”, a term often used to characterise the negative impacts of mass tourism on local communities and ecosystems. It often involves large numbers of tourists who visit destinations without respecting local customs, cultures, or environments. While concerns around the erosion of traditional ways of life have been long-standing among the Goans, fears of a growing threat to their privacy are also coming to the forefront now.<br /><br />Residents report that photographers often instruct their clients to block traffic for the sake of a shot, while others casually walk into private homes, uninvited. The heritage of São Tomé and Fontainhas is rich and deeply rooted in history, but for many tourists, the area is merely a backdrop for their social media feeds. This disregard for the cultural and historical significance of the neighbourhood is also a source of ongoing resentment among the locals.<br /><br />As the tourism boom shows no signs of slowing down across Goa, the residents of Panjim's Latin Quarter are left grappling with the consequences. While tourism brings economic benefits, it also poses a threat to the integrity and peace of these historic neighbourhoods. For the residents, the need for a balance between welcoming visitors and preserving their way of life has never been more urgent. <br /><br />Tourists must endeavour to be more responsible and empathetic during their travels as well. Maybe then, Goa will continue to remain the haven for the weary that it is and not turn into a hostile territory that dislikes tourists.<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="109950935" title="Goa remains top, spiritual tourism remains hot, premium accommodations grow fast — MMT’s summer travel trends for 2024" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><br />

You Searched For "goa" and got 5 results

This Indian state is attracting international tourists via chartered flights, needs support to make itself more accessible

BI India Bureau

Karnataka to go Goa way and allow alcohol sales in coastal cities to lure tourists

PTI

An AirBnB property almost ruined our Goa staycation, but customer support saved the day with another free accommodation!

Ashmita Gupta

Goa protests: Why is an ex-RSS chief demanding to DNA test the body of a 450-year-old sacred saint?

Ankush Banerjee

“Please do not photograph our homes!” plead Goa’s homeowners

Ashmita Gupta

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