Fed up of being the backdrop
North Goan headquartersIn 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.
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.
Invasive tourism
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 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.
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.
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.