Conde Nast Traveller, India has declared Goa as the winner of the ?Best Leisure Destination? at the Readers? Travel Awards 2013. The results were announced on Thursday via social media. This is the second time in a row that Goa has won the award, as per a release.
Nikhil Desai, Director Tourism, Government of Goa and Managing Director, Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), said, ?Every Goan is warm and welcoming and this has been our biggest strength. The fact that these awards have been endorsed by readers, who are or have been tourists in Goa, adds credibility to the fact that our state continues to be the destination of choice for travelers in and out of India. We, the Goa Tourism department, realise that with the honour of this award also comes a big responsibility of keeping Goa safe and secure for everyone. The Tourism Department is upgrading facilities, infrastructure and services in the state for the benefit of tourists and residents. We are conscious of the fact that this is the second time we have won this award and will strive to raise the bar higher each year. Our aim is to see Goa continue to being fun-filled destination that attracts visitors from all over the world.?
Meanwhile, Goa Tourism Department is geared up to introduce better facilities and ensure that tourists have an unforgettable experience in the state. The upcoming Feast of St. Francis Xavier will be celebrated at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa on December 3, 2013. This major feast draws large number of devotees from all over the world. The body of Saint Francis Xavier lies in an exquisite silver casket at the Basilica and will be displayed next year during the Exposition. Christmas, one of the biggest festivals in Goa, will see a different kind of celebrations this year as Goa Tourism is planning something out-of-the-box to usher in cheer.
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