Fewer people are heading towards Goa this year after fears that its popularity with western tourists makes it a high profile target.
Christmas in Goa has been muted this year. Fewer people have turned up this year, even they have had to queue up outside churches, waiting to pass through metal detectors and undergo bag checks, as the police kept a tight watch.
Goa has increased security amid an increased threat perception, following the Mumbai terror attacks. Even on Christmas morning, churches saw a modest response as many people preferred to stay away.
Recently the Goa government banned beach parties for security reasons. Even during the day, tourist celebrations are under the watchful eye of the khakhi.
However, foreign tourists say this is not a deterrent.
"After the Mumbai attack, I did rethink my plan. Instead of going to Mumbai, we decided to come to Goa instead. Just because there are some sand bags, I don't see how this will deter terrorists," said Tony, a foreign tourist.
"I wouldn't come if it was not safe enough. We thought the risk factor is low," said Cathy, another tourist.
The crowds here may suggest that all's well with Goa's tourism industry but the truth is it's taken a hit. There are fewer tourists compared to previous years and the impact of 26/11 attacks can be felt here.
There have been a number of cancellations, particularly from foreign travellers. But on the brighter side, hotels are offering discount and shacks are also lowering rates.
So if you're prepared to party in the shadow of the gun, Goa may not be such a bad place to hit.
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Source: http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20080077778&ch=633658451897095000
Christmas in Goa has been muted this year. Fewer people have turned up this year, even they have had to queue up outside churches, waiting to pass through metal detectors and undergo bag checks, as the police kept a tight watch.
Goa has increased security amid an increased threat perception, following the Mumbai terror attacks. Even on Christmas morning, churches saw a modest response as many people preferred to stay away.
Recently the Goa government banned beach parties for security reasons. Even during the day, tourist celebrations are under the watchful eye of the khakhi.
However, foreign tourists say this is not a deterrent.
"After the Mumbai attack, I did rethink my plan. Instead of going to Mumbai, we decided to come to Goa instead. Just because there are some sand bags, I don't see how this will deter terrorists," said Tony, a foreign tourist.
"I wouldn't come if it was not safe enough. We thought the risk factor is low," said Cathy, another tourist.
The crowds here may suggest that all's well with Goa's tourism industry but the truth is it's taken a hit. There are fewer tourists compared to previous years and the impact of 26/11 attacks can be felt here.
There have been a number of cancellations, particularly from foreign travellers. But on the brighter side, hotels are offering discount and shacks are also lowering rates.
So if you're prepared to party in the shadow of the gun, Goa may not be such a bad place to hit.
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