From rising costs and premium experiences to shifting tourist priorities, Goa’s transformation sparks a mix of admiration and criticism, as visitors and locals debate the cost of preserving its charm and vibrancy (Pic Courtesy: Getty Images)
This photo (left) posted by @DeepikaBhardwaj on X, which she says was clicked at Calangute close to New Year’s Eve, generated a lot of conversation about Goan tourism.
Tourist footfall at Goa’s beaches and shacks has fallen drastically in the 2023-24 peak season. However, in 2023, when foreign tourist footfall in Goa was around 4.5 lakh, domestic tourist numbers peaked to an all-time high of 80 lakh in 2023.
Thalassa and Purple Martini are some of the more popular party spots in the state today. Pic courtesy: Instagram
Iconic beachside venues like Thalassa and Purple Martini continue to draw crowds, offering stunning sunset views and lively vibes. However, as Goa becomes pricier, regular patrons feel the pinch, raising questions about balancing affordability with the exclusive charm these hotspots are known for.
British national Aiden Freeborn and his partner at a party in Goa in 2022. In the late 2010s, he enjoyed the raves at venues such as Shiva Valley and Hilltop
British backpacker Aiden Freeborn, who visited Goa annually since 2016, skipped it this year, citing rising expenses and a shift in its vibrant psytrance scene. “I have no plans to go back anytime soon,” says Freeborn, “Although I will return one day to see how it has evolved. For now, it just doesn’t feel the same,” he adds.
Flexcia D’souza
Goan digital creator Flexcia D’souza says that the rise in Goa’s prices began post-2020 due to an influx of remote workers, but insists they’ve stabilised since. She believes the recent uproar over costs overlooks this, as demand continues to shape the state’s tourism landscape. "It’s demand-driven like anywhere else," she says.
Shehnaz Treasury’s content often focuses on educating people on how to be better tourists, including this shoot from her anti-litter campaign
“Rowdy tourists are not welcome in Goa. If Goa has to be a little more pricey to prevent that, I am okay with it. I have spoken to so many people here and they too said they are willing to pay more if it means Goa remains peaceful,” actor Shehnaz Treasury says. Treasury acknowledges Goa's escalating costs, from hotels to taxis, but views it as a way to deter rowdy tourists.
Shohail Furtado
Furtado, a Goan activist, highlights a disconnect between rising tourist numbers and revenue. Domestic tourists now prioritise budget-friendly stays, such as Airbnbs, over dining and activities. He urges improved infrastructure, law enforcement, and cultural promotion to attract high-spending, well-behaved visitors.
Prashant Shintre, Shailendra Mehta
Prashant Shintre, a Pune-based investor, shares his decision to build a home near Guhagar rather than buy expensive property in Goa. North Goa's real estate is overpriced and overcrowded, while South Goa offers tranquillity but comes with high rates and bureaucratic hurdles.
Shailendra Mehta, a luxury resort owner in Goa, attributes rising prices to the state’s evolution into a premium destination. He notes that tourists now seek unique experiences and quality, driving the demand for higher-end accommodations and services, which inevitably comes at a cost.
Also read: ‘I’m willing to pay more if Goa remains peaceful’: Is India's sunshine state losing tourists?
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