Goa officials, led by the Minister for Tourism Rohan A. Khaunte has drawn up an aggressive plan to market Goa tourism and lure tourists and trade to Goa, Rahul Laud reports
The Goa Department of Tourism is set to make its presence felt at the World Travel Market (WTM) London 2025, scheduled from 4–6 November 2025, where it will highlight its Regenerative Tourism model alongside its year-end campaign, “Feels Like Goa.” The state’s participation this year will focus on showcasing Goa not just as a destination, but as a feeling, one defined by its people, culture, traditions, spirituality, and culinary heritage, say Goa tourism officials.
Speaking about Goa’s presence at WTM London 2025, Minister for Tourism, Rohan A. Khaunte, said, “Goa has always held a special place in the hearts of travellers across the world. With our regenerative tourism approach and the ‘Feels Like Goa’ campaign, we are bringing back the essence of what makes Goa truly unique: its people, culture, traditions and soul. This is not just a campaign, but a tribute to the timeless memories that travellers carry with them. We want the world to rediscover Goa not just as a destination, but as a feeling, one that welcomes them home.”
Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added, “We are committed to creating meaningful and regenerative tourism experiences that reflect Goa’s authentic identity. Our participation at WTM London 2025 and the launch of the ‘Feels Like Goa’ campaign represent a strategic step towards reviving travel sentiment while supporting local communities, traditions and businesses. This approach ensures that tourism benefits everyone, from travellers to local stakeholders, while preserving the soul of Goa.”
As India’s first state to officially adopt Regenerative Tourism, at WTM London, the emphasis will be on Goa Beyond Beaches, from its spiritual trails and hinterland escapes to vibrant cultural festivals and authentic local experiences. The participation will also focus on the “Feels Like Goa” campaign, a heartfelt tribute to the state’s timeless charm, festive spirit, and emotional connection with travellers across the globe.
Drawing attention to initiatives such as the Ekadasha Teertha Circuit, the focus will be to connect visitors with the state’s living traditions and spiritual heritage while ensuring that local communities benefit directly. The state will focus on promoting hinterland, wellness, adventure, spiritual and heritage tourism alongside its iconic coastline, reaffirming that Goa truly goes beyond beaches.
Goa’s participation at WTM London 2025 will also provide an opportunity to showcase its plans. These include strengthening community participation in tourism enterprises, empowering women and youth through local initiatives, promoting sustainable practices to regenerate natural habitats and protect biodiversity, and creating long-term economic resilience by spreading tourism benefits beyond the coast.
