Goa tourism must undergo a drastic makeover

When it was determined that tourism was to be the cash cow to enrich the State, was there any awareness of how subsequent decisions, made to develop tourism in the State, would bring all kinds of trouble to the land and its people?

There was a time when tourism was more organic. It was mostly foreigners – hippies and such, that frequented these shores. Sometimes, they would live or rent from the locals, eat Goan home-cooked meals. Life was simple, almost idyllic.

Then, the capitalists took over. And, while things began to appear more refined and streamlined, there were fault lines forming elsewhere that would lead to a descent into chaos – chaos Goans are grappling with nearly everywhere in Goa.

Among the mistakes that were made in decision-making was targeting domestic tourists over international ones. No doubt, Goa should be accessible to all, but the behaviour of those visiting the State as tourists matters.

We have a reduced footfall of international tourists for reasons from increased rates of international flights, extortionist taxi drivers and high hotel room rates to the dismal State infrastructure that cannot cope with the number of tourists coming in as a whole.

Even old diehard regulars complain on social media forums about how unfeasible and disorderly things have become in Goa. A far-off beach, like Palolem, once known for its solitude and serenity, has been drawing complaints about the congestion and lack of cleanliness.

Beaches in North Goa were overrun enough, now the south has gradually been falling victim to the same disease of unbridled peddling of tourism.

Many international tourists are opting for economical destinations like Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Sri Lanka.

Let us be honest about what attracts the bulk of the domestic tourists. It is the alcohol and cheap entertainment. Many will pop in and out of Goa to consume the cheap alcohol, and not contribute much else to the economy.

What Goa needs is tourists that respect the land and its people, not boors trampling upon all that we hold in esteem. Instead of advertising Goa’s historical identity and its calmer environs, the focus is beaches and partying.

Now, once in Goa, the high-end tourists would have no problem spending money visiting museums, such as Goa Chitra in Benaulim, and Sao Thome in Varca. There are so many heritage houses to explore, such as the Menezes-Braganza House in Chandor and Palacio do Deao in Quepem, as well as numerous religious monuments and green spaces.

Considering the number of tourists that come in, the takers for tourism apart from beaches and parties are few. If they choose a tour package that includes historical monuments, it is less for the learning experience than the idea that it is what one does on a holiday. This leads to behaviours that are not the most decorous.

People tend to try and handle antiques and artefacts without a care for the worth of the object. Rubbish is often tossed anywhere when it can be held on to until a waste bin is in sight.

Sometimes, you find people talking over tour guides, loud and uncouth, oblivious to their surroundings and the negative attention they are attracting.

Taking photographs and videos where they are strictly forbidden seems to be another foible to contend with.

There was a time when tourism in Goa was seasonal. The people and the environment had a chance to recover from any damage caused during the process.

Now, there is no respite in sight, with tourists coming in throughout the year, even in the monsoons.

Goa is a tiny state. We cannot handle the number of tourists coming in without serious repercussions. We most definitely need to change our strategy and begin wooing quality tourists. These will be fewer in number, but will recognise value and will happily contribute towards the growth of our economy.