I have just read Goa Home Minister Ravi Naik’s outrageous statements about tourists visiting Goa. I must say that it is a wonder that Goa has any tourism business left after the way we tourists are treated, and this even before Mr Naik’s insulting outburst! It is about time the Goan people looked at their government and questioned what they really do with the tourist income they receive. Year upon year promises are made and those promises are broken (River Princess, garbage, etc). I have been visiting Goa for the past 10 years and stayed at various ‘upmarket’ hotels, and all I have seen during that time is Goa slowly sliding downhill in infrastructure , honesty and quality. We hear how Goa wants ‘upmarket’ tourists. Well, I have some bad news for you, Goa – you are not an upmarket destination and with the worldwide recession Mr Naik’s remarks will not enhance your reputation in the slightest! I for one will not be visiting your shores again. My money will be spent in destinations that are truly upmarket and really do welcome the tourist with open arms. PS: I have just read Churchill Alemao’s statement proclaiming that “Goa doesn’t need any more tourists”. Well said, Mr Alemao, as Goa cannot even look after the tourists she gets now!
- *Simon Cowell, London* ** http://www.oheraldo.in/pagedetails.asp?nid=22795&cid=13
