GSTC, Agoda & Goa Government unite for sustainable tourism in India

Friday, December 29, 2023

Teaming up with Agoda, a leading digital travel platform, and the Government of Goa, we orchestrated a Hotel Sustainability Training program from November 28 to 29, 2023, held at Park Regis in Goa, India. This intensive two-day initiative united local hotel professionals, offering a curated series of sessions led by influential industry experts. The primary objective was to equip them with the skills and tools necessary to elevate their sustainability practices.

This collaboration aimed to foster more sustainable tourism practices in India, marking an essential step in this direction. Throughout the training, participants delved into practical insights derived from exemplary sustainability practices and real hotel case studies. The comprehensive curriculum covered various aspects, including sustainable management, socio-economic considerations, cultural sensitivity, and environmental impact.

Utilizing the GSTC Industry Criteria, acknowledged globally as the benchmark for sustainability in travel and tourism, attendees were empowered to evaluate their current performance and establish achievable short-, medium-, and long-term sustainability goals.

The program was overseen by Mr. CB Ramkumar, GSTC Vice Chair, in conjunction with Mr. Rajesh Nambiar, GSTC Trainer.

“Goa holds a pivotal position in India’s tourism landscape, and it was serendipitous that Agoda initiated its Indian endeavors with this training in Goa. The collective belief that sustainability should be an integral part of hotel strategic planning resonated strongly throughout the discussions among the participating hoteliers. This translated into enthusiastic participation not only from the hoteliers but also from officers of the Goa Tourism Development Corporation, enriching the training experience. The lively and meaningful discussions, coupled with the practical application-oriented nature of the GSTC Hotels Criteria, made for an engaging two-day session. While hoteliers in the country are inclined toward embracing sustainable tourism, they require a structured framework to embark on this journey. The GSTC Industry Criteria provides precisely that framework. Collaborations between GSTC and influential partners like Agoda will significantly bolster India’s aspirations for sustainable tourism,” remarked Mr. CB Ramkumar, GSTC Vice Chair and Trainer.

Previously conducted in Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand, this program has attracted over two hundred hoteliers. Notable attendees at the inaugural Goa edition included general managers and senior executives from hotels such as Accor, Kenilworth Resort & Spa, Park Regis Goa, and Radisson Goa Candolim.

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