The Indian state of Goa has recorded a positive start to the year, with official government statistics revealing the tourism hotspot received 12 per cent more visitors in 2013 than in 2012.

The figures indicate that domestic tourist arrivals have climbed up by 12.47 per cent in 2013 and international tourist arrivals have gone up by 9.27 per cent.

The overall tourist growth has been pegged at around 12 per cent, which is a record high for the state.

This increase in tourist inflow is in sync with the expectations of Goa Tourism as the state is all geared up to build world-class tourist infrastructure and also begin operations in the new airport terminal this year, all of which they hope will only further fuel this growth.

A stringent beach cleaning programme will be implemented over the next six months and the Tourism Department is hopeful that the shores of Goa will soon be listed as one of the cleanest beaches in south-east Asia. 

Goa Tourism has carried out aggressive marketing and PR campaigns supported by regular participation in domestic and international road shows to increase trade outreach is one of the key factors that has lead to this rise in the number of tourists visiting Goa.

The promotion of safety and cleanliness in the state, attractive offers during monsoon and spreading the word about Goa as a destination with multiple holiday options has also worked in the state’s favour.

Shri Dilip Parulekar, minister for tourism, Goa, said, “This is a great way to begin the New Year for us. We are more than thrilled to announce these figures and this only proves that Goa continues to be the destination of choice for people from all across the world.

“At the same time, these numbers also serve as a reminder for us to constantly strive and keep the infrastructure and other developments in the state on par with international standards so that Goa can turn into the number one destination of choice for travellers.

“Goa Tourism has planned several campaigns and programmes to ensure safety of tourists, a clean state, introduce women taxi drivers that are in tune with our vision.

“We will also focus on improving the quality and profile of visitors visiting the state.  Apart from these we also aim to celebrate various festivals and events in a manner that reflects the true spirit of Goa.

“One of these is the upcoming Carnival 2014 in March.”