*Goa, 24th October 2024* – Goa Tourism marked an impressive beginning at ITB Asia 2024, held at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, showcasing its diverse tourism offerings and establishing its presence on the international stage. The Goa Tourism Pavilion (Stall No. M51) was formally inaugurated by Ms. Pooja Tillu, Deputy High Commissioner of India in Singapore, alongside Mr. T. Prabhakar, First Secretary (Commerce), Mr. Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director of Goa Tourism, Mr. Gavin Dias, General Manager Marketing, GTDC, and Mr. Dhiraj Wagle, Deputy Director of Tourism. The inaugural event drew notable attention, setting a promising tone for the days to come.
On the opening day, Goa Tourism officials extended a warm welcome to the global travel and trade fraternity, dignitaries, and visitors from 8across the world, inviting them to explore and experience the distinctive charm and vibrancy of Goa. The pavilion, with its captivating displays, immersive presentations, and engaging narratives, served as a window to Goa’s rich cultural legacy and its commitment to sustainable and regenerative tourism practices. The interactive showcases provided an opportunity for visitors to discover Goa’s vibrant festivals, pristine beaches, adventure tourism, wellness offerings centered around Ayurveda, and much more.
Mr. Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director of Tourism, Mr. Gavin Dias, General Manager Marketing, GTDC, and Mr. Dhiraj Wagle, Deputy Director of Tourism led impactful networking sessions and B2B engagements throughout the day, fostering valuable global partnerships and establishing Goa as a significant destination on the global tourism map. The interaction with international stakeholders were focused on showcasing Goa’s vast tourism potential and promoting Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism, weddings, and heritage and wellness tourism. Their efforts emphasized Goa’s readiness to host world-class events while ensuring sustainable and eco-friendly tourism practices.
Mr. Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director of Tourism remarked, “ITB Asia 2024 is a key event for us to establish Goa’s global presence and drive collaborations that will bolster tourism. Our focus on regenerative tourism underlines our commitment to rejuvenating natural and cultural assets while creating unforgettable experiences for travelers. Through our participation, we aim to not only showcase Goa’s diverse offerings but also inspire visitors to engage in responsible tourism, which prioritizes the well-being of local communities and the preservation of our cultural and environmental heritage. We look forward to building meaningful connections that will promote Goa as a destination of choice for global travelers.”
The day concluded on a high note with an electrifying cultural program at the Goa Tourism Pavilion. The event offered attendees an enchanting glimpse into Goa’s rich cultural heritage through traditional performances that embodied the vibrant spirit of the state. The lively showcase was met with immense enthusiasm and captivated both attendees and dignitaries, leaving a lasting impression of Goa’s cultural richness.
Mr. Gavin Dias, General Manager Marketing, GTDC added, “Our pavilion at ITB Asia showcases the multifaceted experiences Goa has to offer, from wellness and spiritual tourism to adventure and MICE segments. We are committed to elevating the visitor experience while promoting responsible travel.”
Mr. Dhiraj Wagle, Deputy Director of Tourism emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “The response on the first day has been exceptional. ITB Asia provides a global platform for Goa to connect with key stakeholders, paving the way for fruitful partnerships and expanding our reach in the Asian market.”
The success of the opening day of ITB Asia reaffirmed Goa’s position as a leading global tourism destination. Goa Tourism’s participation at ITB Asia Singapore promises engaging interactions, valuable partnerships, and immersive experiences. Visitors are invited to visit the Goa Tourism Pavilion (M51) at the Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre, B2, until 25th October to explore the state’s unique tourism offerings and innovative practices that prioritize regeneration and responsible tourism.
