Indian tourists continue to outnumber foreigners, but Goa’s tourism season appears to have received the green tick with the arrival of charters. Since the landing of the first charter, guests have started moving into city markets, tasting food in city bars, some even roaming in rented cars and bikes.
“I had a few Russians come for lunch this afternoon. They seem to be a nice bunch. I think I had misconceptions about them because unlike others, they hardly interact, but that is because they do not speak our language,” said the owner of a restaurant.
Pretty happy with the business, he added, “They are polite, have good taste and drink reasonably. They left my boys with a handsome tip.”
The Russians have landed softly, and more are expected to arrive in the days ahead. And, local stakeholders have been caught not fully ready for the season.
Despite the government giving the nod to start shacks, many are still not up either because of the inclement weather or the susegado (easy going) attitude that is ingrained in most.
Whilst the southern coastal belt witnesses activity till around sunset, life in the north begins after that, and this explains why the middle-aged, families and couples have opted for the former.
“Since the war, life has been pretty nervous. No place is nice to live during war, and just these few days away is making a world of difference. Honestly, the beauty of being in Goa is being far away from home,” admits Zarina as she and her friend sip beer on the beach and watch the sun set.
In the far north, Ezeky and his friends are getting ready to drive to the beach after dinner to take part in what they believe is a party for Russians.
“We have been informed, through social media, that a party has been organised. We have been told that we will be picked up at the beach,” explains his friend.
Whilst most Russians seemed to be enjoying their time on beaches in the north, gulping down beers and munching snacks, it was time for leisurely walks in the south, with most opting to return to their resorts for a meal or drink.
“We have drawn up tours to various locations and have representatives wherever our guests are. There are temple tours, tours to Old Goa and other churches and, of course, the Mapusa market and flea market,” said Carolyn Rodricks of Concord Exotic Voyages.
“For many, it is a first time to Goa, and we want to make it the best for them because we want the beauty of Goa shared by them in Russia. Their experiences will, in the long run, shine light on the season ahead,” says Rodricks.
Despite the season being underway, watersports is still risky. Days after the first charter arrived, a boat ferrying 15 domestic tourists capsized in Baga with no casualties reported, whilst in the south, water sports equipment was being readied for the season.
“We have foreigners as well as Indian guests wanting to go out at sea. We held back our boats since the weather has still not settled. It is gloomy in the morning and pours in the evening, but the currents in the sea are unpredictable,” says Oswald as he scrubs a water sports boat.
Most websites indicate that the number of FITs is bound to increase from November and many are from England. Till then, stakeholders will need to know how to make hay when the sun begins to shine.