Domestic tourists throng Goa beaches to beat sweltering heat
Panaji: With mercury soaring to unbearable levels across the country, domestic holidayers are flocking Goa beaches to cool-off themselves lending a much-needed fillip to tourism sector in the picturesque state.
“People prefer going for trips during summer vacations. And Goa is surely one of the most ideal destinations?one can visit. We have number of tourists visiting Goa during this summer considering a lot of activities that one can enjoy,” state Director of Tourism Amey Abhyankar told PTI.
He said the trend is likely to continue till monsoon arrives in the state.
The rains hit the beaches in the first week of June every year.
“We have tourists coming from all over the country, majorly from North India like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Kolkata, etc. Goa has its own beauty and is different from all other states. Hence, North Indians prefer spending their vacation in Goa to explore the beauty which is anytime different from any other state,” he said.
The State Tourism department is upbeat on the increase in tourist footfalls, especially during long weekends.
“Weekend holiday in Goa is the new trend among domestic tourists and is precipitated on account on many public holidays falling either on a Friday or a Monday during the year. This gives domestic tourists an extended weekend holiday,” the director said.
Hoteliers are reporting full occupancy during such occasions and weekends as well.
Domestic tourists from the neighbouring States of Goa drive down to enjoy the short weekend holiday, he added.
The department says, for summers people prefer beaches to get relief from sweltering heat, till it rains while people rush to hinterlands when it showers.
“In summer, the tourists enjoy swimming in the sea or relaxing on the beach while children like to play with the sand,” he added.
The state tourism department has also introduced?Hot Air Balloon and Amphibious vehicle services to attract more visitors.
“People are much aware about these initiatives by the Goa Tourism and are anxiously waiting to witness these activities,” he said.
PTI
