Team Herald
MARGAO: South Goa has gained national attention as a standout destination in Google’s ‘Year in Search 2024’, marking a significant win for the district’s tourism industry. While celebrating this digital recognition, the Cavelossim panchayat highlighted the urgent need for structural reforms to ensure sustainable growth in the tourism sector.
Google’s recent release of its annual search trends revealed a fascinating digital map of traveler interests, with South Goa prominently featuring among destinations like Azerbaijan, Bali, Kazakhstan, Manali, Jaipur, Georgia, Malaysia, Ayodhya, and Kashmir—highlighting the region’s growing appeal in the national travel consciousness.
Cavelossim Sarpanch Dixon Vaz, who also serves as Vice President of the Small and Medium Hotel Owners Association, welcomed the recognition but urged stakeholders to address longstanding challenges, such as accessibility, infrastructure, high costs, unregulated pricing, and inconsistent visitor experiences
“Tourism is a very fragile industry and needs to be protected from government policies to local businesses. A tourist must have a hassle-free experience. There is no control on prices—from airlines to hotels and taxi fares—all of which have contributed to the decline in tourism. We are very fortunate that in South Goa, our beaches are much cleaner and less crowded,” said Vaz.
The spotlight on South Goa follows a period of criticism faced by the State, with disgruntled tourists voicing dissatisfaction online over exorbitant costs and lack of infrastructure.