'TTAG is a partner in Goa's progress' www.expresstravelworld.com MONTHLY INSIGHT FOR THE TRAVEL TRADE February 2006
In an interview with Express TravelWorld, Charles Bonifacio, president, Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) speaks about how the association is helping to promote tourism in the state What relation does TTAG share with the Goa government? The TTAG has got an excellent rapport with the Goa government and it is a partner in Goa's progress. Every year, before the budget, we have a discussion with the government on various policies and fiscal matters. The TTAG is also represented on the various boards and we sit across the table and solve most of the issues. We are also represented on the planning board so that we can voice our views on tourism and ensure that the benefits of tourism percolate to the local people for effective sustainable tourism. What initiatives has the private hotel industry in Goa undertaken to boost tourism? The private hotel industry in Goa has taken a number of new initiatives to boost tourism worldwide. We have been working with the government in co-branding Goa as the perfect holiday destination. We have already seen a 30 per cent growth and the encouraging trends are visible as a result of the new initiatives in the field of rural tourism, medical tourism and cruise tourism. Compared to last year, we are expecting a growth of 30-35 per cent in tourists visiting rural Goa, especially to savour local ethnic food at Savoi Plantations, Sahakari Plantations, etc. We also have tourists visiting Goa to avail of health rejuvenating packages recently introduced by most hotels. Basically, my ideas and vision of tourism is more dynamic and meaningful. We need to change our mindset and take the bull by the horns as tourism is the largest employer of our times. We have also made inroads into cruise tourism where our concerted efforts of last year have seen Star Cruises berthing in Goa for the first time. Cruise tourism worldwide is not a new phenomenon but I am sure as time goes by, Goa will become the most sought after cruise tourism destination. How do the private hotels in Goa market themselves worldwide? The private hotels have an aggressive marketing strategy which is planned for overseas marketing and at the same time laying greater emphasis on domestic tourism. Our focus is on the niche markets and targeting the unexplored markets. We plan to consolidate our presence in the existing markets, namely UK, Germany, Scandinavian countries, and increase our market share in France, Switzerland and Russia. We make our presence felt by participating in the World Travel Mart - London, International Travel Bourse - Berlin, The Arabian Travel Market - Dubai, Otdykh Leisure market - Moscow and various domestic events. The private hotel industry in Goa has taken note of the boom in the tourism sector and has geared itself to meet the challenges by attending various roadshows internationally and also by advertising in the international media. What do you think is Goa's USP over other Asian destinations? Goa's USP is its rich cultural heritage, ethos, traditions, friendly and warm Goan hospitality, smiles, songs and laughter, food, fun and feni, dance, music and tiartr (drama) and sun, sea and sand. ~(^^)~ Avelino
