Goa is taking its vibrant tourism story to the world. Later this month, the state government will host a promotional roadshow in Malaysia on November 27, aimed at attracting travelers from Southeast Asia. The initiative is part of a broader campaign that also includes events in Qatar and Bahrain, targeting tourists from the Middle East.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte explained that the “exclusive” showcase will highlight Goa’s renewed tourism vision, contemporary campaigns, and a range of immersive experiences for international visitors. “This engagement aims to strengthen Goa’s presence in the Southeast Asian market and build meaningful partnerships with key travel trade stakeholders,” he said.
Khaunte added that the state is positioning itself as a premium global destination, embracing fresh ideas and sustainable practices. “Through this roadshow, we aim to present a refreshed Goa—one that celebrates our culture, embraces new-age tourism trends, and reflects our commitment to regenerative and responsible travel,” he said.
Tourism Director Kedar Naik emphasized Malaysia as an important source market and explained that the event will showcase Goa’s evolving tourism offerings. “We are focusing on a diverse range of experiences—from entertainment and wellness to luxury travel and immersive experiences. Our new trends, like Nocto Tourism, Jet-Setting, and CalmCation, reflect the aspirations of modern travelers and the direction in which Goa’s tourism ecosystem is moving,” he said.
Naik also highlighted the state’s recently launched Feels Like Goa campaign, designed to immerse visitors in the essence of the state through its culture, heritage, cuisine, wellness offerings, and regenerative tourism approach.
IFFI: Showcasing Goa to the World
Tourism is not Goa’s only stage on the global map. For over two decades, the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) has helped position Goa as a hub for cinematic exchange, bringing national and international filmmakers to the state.
Speaking at the inauguration of IFFI’s 56th edition on Thursday, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant reflected on the festival’s journey since it first arrived in Goa in 2004. “IFFI has grown alongside Goa, providing a platform to showcase not just films but also the richness of our culture, language, and cuisine,” he said.
The festival, which started in 1952 and moved around different cities, became a permanent feature in Goa under the leadership of former Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar. Sharmad Pai Raiturkar, member of the executive council of the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), recalled Parrikar’s vision in establishing IFFI as a key cultural event.
“IFFI is more than a film festival. It allows Goa to present its uniqueness—the people, the culture, and the cuisine—to the world,” he said.
With initiatives like these roadshows and IFFI, Goa is steadily evolving from a coastal getaway into a global stage for culture, creativity, and immersive experiences.
