The Department of Tourism, Goa, has confirmed its participation in the prestigious World Travel Market (WTM) in London, scheduled from November 5-7, 2024, at ExCeL London. This event, known for uniting global travel industry leaders, presents Goa with a valuable platform to showcase its unique tourism offerings and progressive sustainable travel initiatives to an international audience.
Goa Tourism’s pavilion will feature the state’s cultural richness, natural landscapes, and innovative tourism experiences, emphasizing regenerative and eco-conscious tourism. The vibrant display will celebrate Goa’s renowned festivals, thrilling adventure opportunities, heritage traditions, and serene beaches—each a key element of Goa’s identity as a must-visit destination.
This year’s focus on Regenerative Tourism represents a step beyond sustainability, aiming not only to preserve but to actively restore Goa’s natural and cultural treasures. The display will highlight efforts to promote hinterland tourism, preserve heritage sites, enhance wellness tourism around Ayurveda, and position Goa as a prime location for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and destination weddings. These initiatives benefit local communities and ensure Goa’s environment and cultural heritage are safeguarded for future generations.
Among the highlights, visitors will find the Ekadasha Teertha Circuit—a spiritual journey across 11 historic temples in Goa—and the upcoming Exposition of St. Francis Xavier, set from November 21, 2024, to January 5, 2025, at the UNESCO World Heritage Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa. Additionally, the pavilion will spotlight the International Film Festival of India, inviting film enthusiasts to engage with Goa’s dynamic cinematic scene. Through immersive displays, Goa Tourism will convey its commitment to responsible tourism that preserves both the region’s environment and cultural legacy.
Suneel Anchipaka, Director of Tourism and Managing Director of GTDC, commented, “Our commitment to Regenerative Tourism underscores our goal to go beyond preservation, revitalizing Goa’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage. With the presence of Goan hoteliers, travel agencies, and tourism stakeholders at WTM London, we aim to provide visitors with an authentic experience of Goa’s renowned hospitality. We hope to inspire global travelers to explore Goa’s beauty while contributing positively to its sustainable development.”
The Goa Tourism pavilion at WTM London 2024 is a must-visit for those interested in exploring the future of regenerative tourism and learning how Goa is transforming sustainable travel into a force for long-term benefit to its people and environment.
