Goa Tourism

Tourism is now one of the mainstays of the economy of Goa. In fact, Goa is one of the most popular destinations in India and contributes about 12 percent to foreign visitors. In 2004, 2.2 million came to visit Goa, including 200,000 from abroad. Goa is very popular as a tourist destination in the weeks around New Year.

Tourism in Goa began in the late 1960s with the arrival of some Western European hippies to Goa’s beaches. The Goa parties and the music that has developed in Goa, made the state famous quickly.

The situation changed radically in the 1980s. Through land speculation and corruption (see Bakshish) that succeeded in some Western European companies, considerable parts of the coastal region of Goa were taken possession, and great tourist resorts were built. The government prevented Goans coastal settlements, but allowed casinos in the interior.

The problem of waste disposal and the partial lack of supply of potable water was not tackled, because large amounts were derived from fresh water for public water and used to fill the swimming pool of the resort. The new buildings are limited largely in the immediate vicinity of the easily accessible beaches in the Arabian Sea. In addition to the holiday resorts, tourists can also find numerous quiet places with good general care.