Goa officials approve new floating hotel
Posted on Thursday 17 May 2012
in India, Goa
By Sophia Choice
Kiwis looking for an exotic and picturesque locale to explore on their next adventure travel trip may wish to visit Goa, India. This beachfront state is the smallest in the country but has some of the most scenic coastlines and options for outdoor activities around.
Travellers who visit this destination may have a new place to stay and be entertained. Along the Mandovi River, many ships offer sailing casino facilities to visitors that comply with the area's laws on gaming. However, there is a plan being approved for the first floating hotel that will cater to the needs of luxury travel enthusiasts and those looking for top-notch accommodations. The idea, created by Highstreet Cruises and Entertainment, will be unique to the area and provide visitors with more options than ever before.
If all goes according to plan, the hotel ship will be open to the public next year, accepting patrons from across the globe who want to experience Goa's natural beauty. The vessel will have more than a dozen lavishly furnished guest rooms as well as several services and amenities found at most regular hotels, such as a fitness centre and restaurant. Although the facility will be aboard a boat, it will spend the majority of its time docked at the Mandovi Bridge.
"We (Tourism Department) have given initial approval for the proposal and now they have to take permission from the Captain of Ports for mooring the vessel on the Mandovi River," said Swapnil Naik, the director of tourism for Goa.
The hotel is only a portion of the new projects being worked on to enhance tourism in the state. Transportation experts are working on finding new ways for guests to reach the locale, through outlets like seaplanes, helicopters and even ropeway. In the future, travellers will be able to reach various villages and towns through these means of transport, including Tiracol, Mollem and Colva.
"We have asked both Pawan Hans and Maritime Energy Heli Air Services (MEHAIR) from Mumbai to submit a feasibility report on helicopter services and seaplane services respectively," said Naik.
Goa can be a breathtaking destination to spend an adventure travel trip abroad and Kiwis should be on the lookout for the newest features for tourists in this area that will complement their memorable stay.
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