Tourism stakeholders in South Goa are yet to feel the burn of the heat as the number of domestic tourists enjoying their children’s summer vacations is keeping business rolling.
Hotels along the coastal stretch, from Utorda Beach to Cavelossim Beach, are doing better than expected and with reservations right through May, for many linked to the industry, this is an unexpected extended season.
“Reservations are good, or rather, unexpected. We had people last year, but there is an increase in numbers with people from different parts of India coming to spend their children’s holidays,” avers Pradip, a public relations executive at a hotel in South Goa.
“One room is normally taken up by a family of three or four members, and they normally stay for a few days or a week. Our guests are mainly from North India and a few from the south,” he admits.
Unlike repeat foreign tourists, Pradip says that most guests in his resort are first timers. “Indian tourists like change. Those who had come last year may come this year, too, but may opt for other hotels,” he adds.
The coastline from Cavelossim Beach to Benaulim Beach and beyond is full of watersports operators doing brisk business well past sunset. “Most of the people are staying in resorts nearby,” admits watersports operator, Valencio.
“I have been bringing my family to Goa since last year as they all enjoy the beach. Playing in the sand is a luxury for my children and it is good for my parents,” admits Shah who has come from Gujarat.
“I got a good deal for the hotel rooms as I am a member of this chain. The hygiene standards are high, and once the kids finish on the beach, they use the pool in the hotel,” admits Shah, discounting fears that hotels are overpriced.
Though the beaches are full, the smiles on the faces of shack operators are not overbearing as many rely on foreign tourists for business. A few Russian tourists are still around, but not enough to keep all busy.
“The season is almost over for us. Except for a few Russians still around and local people who have started coming to the beach, Indian tourists normally avoid coming because they buy packages with hotels that include meals,” reasons Succorina, who runs a shack.
“The concept of shacks is still alien to Indian guests. If they do come, they come in groups of stags to drink. They are not eaters and most avoid the beach when the sun is out. It is worse in this heat,” admits Raymond.
If the shack operators are looking for business, watersports operators are happy with the number of tourists enjoying sea winching. “Wow! That was a great experience. I saw this on my phone, but never expected to fly over the sea myself,” says Arun, after descending from a ride.
“I was initially a bit nervous, but once I got to the top, all my fears disappeared and I did not want to descend so soon. The sea looks beautiful from the top. It is a different view!” he explains.
Water sports activities range from Rs 600 to a maximum of Rs 2,000 per individual depending on the activity selected and most adhere to safety guidelines prescribed, though cross checking is advisable.
As the sun sets, the whistles of the lifeguards on the beach echo, advising all to return to the shore. “Guests are not allowed to venture into the sea after sunset as poor light makes it difficult for us to keep an eye on all,” admits lifeguard Sanjay.
The heat is on, but for the playful minds of tourists in South Goa, the sea is a better draw – one that will keep bringing them to the sands of time in Goa.