Goa Tourism Heads to WTM London 2026 as TUI Reports Positive Outlook for Winter Season
Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte to lead delegation of tourism officials and industry stakeholders; around 20,000 passengers expected through TUI’s four weekly direct flights from Manchester and London Gatwick this winter
Panaji, Goa, October 2026: UK bookings for Goa are up 6% compared with the same period last year, with tour operator TUI expecting approximately 20,000 passengers to travel to the destination through its direct services from Manchester and London Gatwick during the upcoming winter season. Against this backdrop, Goa Tourism will take its renewed destination promotion and trade engagement strategy to World Travel Market (WTM) London 2026, scheduled from November 3 to 5 at ExCeL London.
Led by Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, the Goa delegation will comprise tourism department leadership and key industry stakeholders, with engagements focused on strengthening trade partnerships, building on the UK market’s established affinity for Goa and showcasing experiences that extend well beyond the state’s beaches.
According to figures shared by TUI, the tour operator operates four direct flights a week to Goa, with two services each from Manchester and London Gatwick. The reported 6% rise in bookings and expected passenger volumes underline the importance of direct air connectivity to Goa’s winter tourism market. TUI has also indicated a positive outlook for the upcoming season, citing Goa’s established base of repeat visitors, reliable winter sunshine, English-speaking locals, strong community bonds and warm hospitality as factors contributing to its appeal.
Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte said, “The UK and Goa share a relationship that has grown over generations of travellers. Many British visitors have made Goa a part of their lives, returning year after year for its sunshine, hospitality and the sense of familiarity they find here. Our opportunity now is to build on that connection and show them how much more there is to discover. A holiday in Goa can begin with the beach, but it can also lead to our villages, heritage homes, culinary traditions, wellness experiences, festivals and hinterland. As we strengthen our engagement with the UK market, our focus is on creating reasons for visitors to stay longer, explore more and connect meaningfully with the people and places that make Goa unique.”
At WTM London, Goa Tourism will showcase a broader destination proposition encompassing Indo-Portuguese heritage, culinary traditions, Ayurveda and wellness, nature and wildlife, river experiences, village life and lesser-explored parts of the state. The focus will be on encouraging returning visitors to discover new experiences while introducing first-time travellers to Goa’s cultural and natural diversity.
The emphasis on regenerative tourism will also highlight the role of local communities in the visitor experience. From traditional homes and village markets to local food businesses, artisans, farmers and cultural celebrations, Goa’s living heritage offers opportunities to create more meaningful visitor experiences while extending tourism benefits beyond established tourism centres.
Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, said, “The UK remains a key market for Goa, and TUI’s positive booking trend offers an opportunity to build on this momentum. At WTM London, we aim to strengthen travel trade partnerships and showcase Goa’s diverse experiences beyond its beaches, encouraging visitors to explore more of the state, stay longer and connect with its culture and communities.”
With international charter visitors typically staying 10 to 14 nights, Goa has an opportunity to promote longer itineraries combining beaches with heritage, food, wellness, nature and hinterland experiences. Through its participation at WTM London 2026, Goa Tourism aims to translate interest in the destination into stronger trade partnerships and a broader range of experiences for British travellers.
For travellers who already know Goa, there is more to return to. For those discovering it for the first time, there is more to experience.
