Goa Emerges as Sole Indian Destination on Geoffrey Kent’s Exclusive Private Jet Expedition
Luxury travel pioneer Geoffrey Kent arrives in Goa with an exclusive group of international travellers, with local Destination Management Company TRAVELSMITH facilitating the Goa leg of the global journey
Panaji, October 14, 2026: Goa welcomed renowned luxury travel pioneer Geoffrey Kent and an exclusive group of international travellers, as part of Around the World with Geoffrey Kent: An Inspiring Expedition by Private Jet, organised by Abercrombie & Kent, with local Destination Management Company TRAVELSMITH facilitating the Goa leg of the journey. With Goa featuring as the expedition’s sole destination in India, the visit places the state on a prestigious global travel itinerary and highlights its growing appeal among discerning international travellers seeking immersive experiences in heritage, culture, gastronomy and luxury.
Scheduled from October 13–15, 2026, the Goa leg of the expedition has been curated to showcase a side of the state that extends beyond its celebrated coastline, bringing together its architectural legacy, waterways, living traditions, distinctive cuisine and cultural heritage. The itinerary includes visits to the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Sé Cathedral in Old Goa, offering guests an insight into Goa’s rich architectural and cultural legacy. A catamaran cruise along Goa’s waterways towards Panaji, followed by a guided walk through the historic Latin Quarter, will introduce visitors to the state’s colourful architecture and distinctive urban heritage.
The programme also includes a private visit to the Goa Chitra Museum, which documents and preserves elements of traditional Goan life, along with an introduction to feni, Goa’s indigenous spirit and an integral part of its cultural and culinary identity. A specially curated culinary experience at the historic Figueiredo Mansion will bring together Goan architecture, cuisine and enduring family traditions. The visit will culminate with a beachside dinner inspired by Goa’s carnival traditions, featuring vibrant décor and live Konkani and Western music — reflecting the distinctive blend of local traditions and cosmopolitan influences that has long shaped Goa’s identity.
Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, said, “Goa’s inclusion as the sole destination in India on this prestigious global private jet expedition is a testament to the state’s growing appeal among discerning international travellers. Our focus is on showcasing Goa beyond its beaches, highlighting its rich heritage, distinctive cuisine, living traditions and immersive experiences that offer visitors a deeper connection with the destination. Through curated experiences that bring together culture, history, gastronomy and hospitality, we are strengthening Goa’s position as a destination for high-value tourism while celebrating the unique identity that makes it truly special.”
Welcoming the expedition, Shri. Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, said, “Goa’s strength as a tourism destination lies in its ability to offer experiences that go beyond the familiar. Our heritage, cuisine, waterways and living traditions allow travellers to experience Goa in more meaningful and immersive ways. The inclusion of Goa as the sole Indian destination on this exclusive global journey is an opportunity to showcase this diversity to a discerning international audience. It also reinforces our focus on positioning Goa as a quality-driven destination offering distinctive, authentic and premium experiences.”
The visit aligns with Goa Tourism’s larger effort to diversify the state’s tourism proposition and attract high-value international travellers looking for personalised and experiential journeys. By bringing heritage, gastronomy, culture and premium hospitality together, Goa is increasingly presenting travellers with experiences that complement its globally recognised beach offering.
It also reflects the state’s emphasis on encouraging visitors to discover more of Goa and engage more deeply with the destination — from its historic neighbourhoods and heritage homes to its traditional cuisine, indigenous produce, music and local stories.
