|
Who would believe that Goa, once a tourist haven, a
hype of fashion, a flamboyant and vibrant state of music,
culture and scenic and oceanic beauty is dwindling to
lack of inspiration and neglect ?
If one remembers the Goa of yesteryears. The hotels
and beaches were full to capacity. The yearly festival
of Goa was celebrated with a gusto and the crowd it
attracted, was national & international. With a
steady influx of tourists and a healthy foreign exchange
what has led to its deterioration.
Political instability, bureaucratic meddling and lack
of funds(?) are the reasons quoted for this predicament.
On the other hand Ashok Nath, Chief Secretary, Goa
defends the situation and confidently says that proper
measures are being taken to boost tourism and also lure
investors to restore Goa to its old self again.
Goa’s neighbouring state Kerala is proving to
be a major competitor with better tourism boost and
tourism infrastructure.
Positive steps should be taken if atall Goa is to stand
up again on its feet. Projects proposed earlier to boost
tourism never took off. For reasons best known to the
GDTC or the state Government. To boost tourism. Better
infrastructure and transport
implementation.
A foundation for Paryatan Bhavan was laid outside Panaji
by the Goa Govt. The cost of construction for this tourists
centre is estimated as Rs. 600 cr. and will house information
counters for tourism and handicraft centres for 15 states.
A golf course, casinos, cruise railway and more attention
to land tourism than beach tourism. Though the tourism
department officials sound confident in visualising
a brighter future for Goa then it should make positive
approach towards the promotion of cultural tourism and
boosting the local festival of SHIGMO to attract more
festive mob.
GOA : HOW TO
REACH
Goa's international airport is Dabolim,
at a distance of 29 km from Panaji, on the coast near
Vasco da Gama. Most domestic airlines operate here apart
from the chartered private airlines operating from UK
and Germany. Indian Airlines has direct flights from
Delhi and Mumbai daily. Air India also flies to Goa.
Reaching Goa by train is easy from Mumbai (490 km),
Bangalore (430 km), and Delhi (1874 km). Goa's two main
stations are at Margao and Vasco da Gama.
GOA : PRECAUTIONS
Goa is infamous for nudity, drugs and
pedophilia. Water can be a problem and so tourists are
advised to use water judiciously. While taking vehicles
on rent, one is advised to ensure that she/he carries
her/his driving license or international driving permit.
|
