Improved Visibility of Goa in the Tourism Market

 “GOA AS a market has recorded over 70 per cent occupancy in 2016 (second to Mumbai) with average rates as the highest in the country (averaging between Rs 7000-9000). The total proposed supply in Goa over next five years from Budget to upper upscale categories is 2,062 rooms with most of the supply (90 per cent) under active development. An expected total of 450 keys will be added to the upper upscale and luxury segment in North Goa itself by 2018”, says Norton Pereira who has been recently appointed as the General Manager at Le Meridien Goa, Calangute.

With the government’s focus on improving visibility for Goa through measures that improve accessibility and infrastructure has helped develop the tourism market.

Pereira with more than 19 years of experience in the hospitality industry has successfully handled hotels in varying capacities. “With Le Meridien Goa Calangute, our effort has been to create a hotel that appeals to connoisseurs of all things Goan – culture, cuisine and music. The hotel’s architecture and design combines timeless European flair with traditional Goan elements to create a unique and unparalleled experience,” he said.

The design story of the hotel is inspired by two landmark events in the history of the state – the settlement of the Kunbi tribe and the arrival of Portuguese in Goa. “Located in the bustling Calangute-Sinquerim belt, we offer five distinct food and beverage outlets, over 10,000 sq.ft of indoor and outdoor space, an enclosed ballroom for conferences and social gatherings and a 16 seater boardroom ideal for meetings,” Pereira added.

Pereira believes that resort properties and leisure destinations focuses more on experiences rather than the product itself. Having opened Le Meridien Mahabaleshwar, India’s first Le Meridien resort in the country has been of significant help while launching Le Meridien Goa for him. “This has helped me, the team ideate experiences, and collaborations that help us highlight the destination’s best-kept secrets. Be it the art story of the hotel, dedicated kids’ programme, live entertainment evenings and more are in keeping with needs of our guests,” he said.

Since employee retention is a critical industry issue, Le Meridien Goa, Calangute has taken special care of it. Speaking about it, he stated, “As a newly launched hotel, it is imperative that each associate feels a sense of belonging. We have a robust plan for employee engagement and development across levels. I strongly believe that for associates to operate at their full potential, along with core training they also need time to themselves; we encourage our associates to pursue their passion – be it sports, arts or linguistics.”