Goa, once the jewel of India’s beach tourism, is experiencing a sharp decline in foreign arrivals. The state’s reputation as a safe destination has been undermined by a series of incidents involving theft, assault, and alleged negligence by local authorities. UK holidaymakers, historically the largest European visitor group, have been warned by the Foreign Office to exercise increased vigilance.
Data from the Goa Tourism Department shows a 23% drop in international arrivals for the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year. The UK market, which accounted for nearly 40% of foreign tourists pre-pandemic, has contracted by 30%. Tour operators report a surge in cancellations, citing safety concerns as the primary reason.
The crisis has been exacerbated by social media campaigns recounting violent robberies and sexual assaults against tourists in popular areas such as Calangute, Baga, and Anjuna. In several instances, victims alleged that police were slow to respond or dismissed complaints. The Goa government has responded by deploying additional patrols and installing CCTV cameras, but critics argue these measures are insufficient.
Local businesses are reeling. Hotel occupancy rates have fallen below 50%, and thousands of informal workers dependent on seasonal tourism face unemployment. The domino effect has reached airlines and travel agencies in the UK, which have reduced capacity to Goa’s Dabolim Airport.
The broader context points to structural vulnerabilities. Goa’s infrastructure has not kept pace with visitor numbers, and environmental degradation, particularly water shortages, has further dented its appeal. Meanwhile, alternative destinations in Southeast Asia, notably Thailand and Vietnam, have improved their safety records and offer better value.
The UK Foreign Office updated its travel advice on March 15, noting “an increase in reports of serious crime” and urging tourists to “remain alert and take personal security measures.” This advisory is likely to accelerate the downturn. Industry analysts predict a prolonged recovery, even if immediate safety issues are addressed.
For Goa, the challenge is not merely operational but perceptual. Rebuilding trust among international travellers will require sustained institutional reform and a coordinated marketing campaign to counteract negative narratives. Until then, the state’s tourism sector faces an uncertain winter season.
