Amidst efforts by the Goa government to attract tourists from newer international markets and to broaden its tourism offerings beyond the state’s popular beaches, a delegation comprising Omani travel and tourism stakeholders visited the historic Aguad Port and Jail Complex, in Sinquerim, recently.
The 10-member delegation was escorted on a guided tour of Aguad Port and Jail Complex as part of the ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ familiarisation trip organised by Goa Tourism, where the visitors were introduced to the iconic fort’s architecture, its refurbished prison cells and the stories that define the heritage site’s place in Goa’s rich history.
According to Mohamed Mahdi, managing director, Discover Oman, who was a part of the 10-member Omani delegation, the visit to the Complex was an “extraordinary experience”.
“It’s one thing to visit a historical place, but it’s another to truly understand the details, the history and the purpose behind why such monuments were built. Today, we experienced not only how the fort and the Aguad jail were constructed, but also the human needs of the occupiers and the native people of Goa,” he said.
Ameer AlBalushi, sales manager at Oman Air, said: “It has been a very enriching experience — hearing amazing stories and learning the history behind this place. We are deeply interested and would highly recommend this destination to anyone visiting Goa. It is truly inspiring.”
Built by the Portuguese colonists in the 17th century to defend against the Dutch and Maratha navies and to serve as a water replenishing hub for passing ships, the Aguada fort later functioned as a prison facility operated by the Portuguese administration and by the Goa government after liberation. Now, the restored Aguad Port and Jail Complex is a vibrant historical and cultural destination that showcases the rich heritage of Goa while promoting responsible tourism. The Aguad offers a unique blend of a technology-enabled museum, art, performances and exhibitions that highlight both local and international talent.
GOA TOURISM’S GLOBAL JOURNEY CONTINUES WITH ROADSHOW IN TASHKENT
Department of Tourism, Government of Goa is set to host an exclusive ‘Experience Goa’ Roadshow in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, at the City Palace Tashkent, on September 15, 2025, as part of its global outreach initiative. The event aims to present Goa as a vibrant, diverse, and sustainable destination that goes far beyond its iconic beaches.
The roadshow will bring together tour operators, travel agents, airline partners, and dignitaries, highlighting Goa’s wide-ranging tourism offerings from heritage and culture to wellness, adventure, festivals, and immersive local experiences. Participants will also have the opportunity for one-on-one interactions with Goa Tourism representatives and explore collaboration opportunities under the themes of Goa Beyond Beaches and Regenerative Tourism.
Speaking ahead of the roadshow, Rohan A. Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, said: “Goa is evolving as a destination that celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability. Through the Tashkent roadshow, we wish to showcase not just Goa’s scenic beauty, but also its heritage, wellness, festivals, and adventure. We look forward to building on this connectivity and welcoming more travelers to experience Goa in its truest essence.”
Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, said: “The Roadshow is an opportunity to engage directly with Tashkent’s travel trade and position Goa as a year-round destination. Our focus is to create lasting connections while presenting Goa’s authentic, memorable, and immersive experiences.”
The roadshow in Tashkent will highlight Goa as a destination offering authentic, memorable, and sustainable experiences while strengthening international partnerships.
GOA TOURISM TO STRENGTHEN DOMESTIC OUTREACH WITH SHOWCASE AT TTF HYDERABAD 2025
Goa Tourism is set to captivate visitors at Travel and Tourism Fair, (TTF) Hyderabad on 19th and 20th September to be held at Hyderabad International Convention Center by showcasing the state as a destination that offers far more than its iconic beaches.
At this year’s TTF, the Goa Pavilion will feature interactive displays and information on hinterland trails, spiritual and wellness circuits, adventure and monsoon tourism, cultural festivals, and unique village experiences, all under the guiding theme of regenerative tourism. It will highlight immersive experiences from cultural and heritage trails to wellness retreats, adventure activities, festivals, and spiritual journeys reflecting Goa’s evolving identity under the theme of “Goa Beyond Beaches.”
Commenting on the participation, Khaunte said, “Goa is evolving beyond its iconic beaches to emerge as a destination that is vibrant, diverse, and sustainable. Our focus is on tourism that creates authentic and memorable experiences for visitors while supporting local communities and preserving our environment. Our aim at TTF Hyderabad is to connect with a wide network of travel agents, operators, and corporates who play a crucial role in shaping travel choices. We invite our Goa Tourism travel trade partners to join us in promoting a destination that celebrates its traditions, embraces innovation, and leads the way in responsible and regenerative tourism.
Kedar Naik added, “We are showcasing Goa at TTF Hyderabad as a destination for every traveller. Whether it’s culture, heritage, wellness, adventure, or eco-tourism, Goa offers authentic and memorable experiences throughout the year.”
With the focus on partnerships, storytelling, and innovation, Goa Tourism’s presence at TTF Hyderabad 2025 reflects its commitment to building stronger ties with the domestic market and offering travelers experiences that are memorable, meaningful, and mindful.
