Goa Unveils Game-Changing Policies for Homestays and B&Bs

Goa Unveils Game-Changing Policies for Homestays and B&Bs

By Author

Published on November 7, 2023

Goa’s scenic vistas and vibrant culture have always been a magnet for travelers from around the world. However, it’s the recent introduction of bed and breakfast (B&B), caravan, and homestay accommodations policies that are set to reinvigorate the region’s tourism, especially benefitting the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at the heart of Goa’s hospitality.

Gautam Mehra, founder & director of myATITHI.global, hailed these policies as more than just regulatory changes. "They're an invitation to dream bigger and a commitment to support from the Goa Government," he expressed, emphasizing the promise of prosperity for the grassroots enterprises that give Goa its unique charm.

Empowering Local Enterprises

These policies aim to slash through red tape and financial hindrances that often stifle small businesses. By simplifying regulatory processes and providing financial incentives and training programs, the state is nurturing a fertile ground for MSMEs to bloom. This means that local B&Bs, caravan operators, and homestay hosts are now better equipped to enhance their offerings and compete on a larger stage.

Affordable Accommodations for Travelers

In an attempt to make travel more accessible, the policies incentivize affordable lodgings. Tax breaks and subsidies for these businesses are expected to make Goa an even more attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers, thereby helping MSMEs to flourish.

Investing in Local Talent and Youth

The government's introduction of skill development initiatives ensures that the quality of hospitality services will continue to rise. This, paired with youth engagement programs, aspires not only to elevate service standards but also to imbue the young population with a vested interest in the state’s tourism sector.

A New Chapter in Goa’s Tourism Story

By focusing on small business empowerment, Goa is poised to redefine its tourism landscape. The infrastructural upgrades, skill enhancement programs, and a welcoming ambiance are all designed to captivate more international and domestic tourists, setting a precedent for sustainable and inclusive growth in the region.

Looking to the Future

While the policies have been met with optimism, experts believe that there's room for improvement. Incorporating advanced digital marketing strategies could extend Goa's charm to a global audience. Sustainable infrastructure development, improving transportation networks, and diversifying tourism experiences are other areas where strategic enhancements could amplify the policies’ impact.

As Goa looks forward, the path is clear. The state aims to not only enhance its standing as a premier tourist destination but to do so by fostering a thriving, sustainable environment for its local businesses and communities.


Storii by ITC Hotels Expands Presence in Goa with Assagao Signing

Storii by ITC Hotels Expands Presence in Goa with Assagao Signing

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 22, 2026

ITC Hotels Limited has expanded its presence in Goa with the signing of a management agreement for a 51-key hotel in Assagao, North Goa, under its growing Storii by ITC Hotels brand.

The upcoming Storii Assagao is being planned as a distinctive hospitality destination that draws inspiration from the character of the region. Its location will give guests easy access to Assagao’s culinary experiences, natural beauty, boutique retail offerings and some of Goa’s well-known beaches and attractions.

The hotel will feature well-appointed rooms and suites, along with an all-day dining restaurant and a selection of dining, social and recreational experiences. The signing further strengthens ITC Hotels' presence across Goa and supports its plans to grow in high-potential leisure destinations.

Commenting on the signing, Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited, said, "Goa continues to be one of India's leading tourism markets and remains a key focus area for our leisure growth strategy. Assagao has emerged as an attractive micro-market, driven by its distinctive character, strong visitor appeal, and evolving travel preferences. Storii Assagao will seamlessly blend the essence of the locale with the brand's focus on personalized service and memorable guest experiences. We are delighted to partner with Ananda Hospitality Services Private Limited on this exciting project."

Purshottam Sharma and Dilip Sharma, Partners at M/s Ananda Hospitality Services Private Limited, said, "Assagao has steadily evolved into one of Goa's most sought-after hospitality destinations, attracting travellers looking for enjoyable and well-curated stays. We are pleased to collaborate with ITC Hotels and look forward to creating a hospitality offering that reflects the unique appeal of the region while delivering exceptional guest experiences."

The new signing adds to ITC Hotels' growing presence in North Goa, which continues to benefit from tourism demand, improving connectivity and the rising interest in experiential leisure travel.

With its tree-lined avenues, charming neighbourhoods, food scene and evolving hospitality market, Assagao has become an increasingly popular destination for travellers seeking a more relaxed Goa experience. Storii Assagao is expected to build on this appeal while adding another option for guests exploring North Goa.


Atmosphere Core Announces Hillora Eco Resort in Visakhapatnam with 180 Keys

Atmosphere Core Announces Hillora Eco Resort in Visakhapatnam with 180 Keys

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 20, 2026

Atmosphere Core has announced its strategic partnership with A V N G Developers LLP to launch Atmosphere Hillora Eco Resort Visakhapatnam, strengthening the brand’s growing presence in India.

Set to open in Q1 2029, the 180-key eco resort will be located amidst the scenic Eastern Ghats of Visakhapatnam, surrounded by lakes and mountains. The resort will also be situated close to the Polavaram Irrigation Project on the Godavari River and will offer convenient access from the upcoming Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram, located approximately one hour away.

The upcoming resort is part of the ‘Atmosphere’ sub-brand within Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts and will combine eco-sensitive design with the natural beauty of forests, lakes and the Eastern Ghats.

image

Speaking about the expansion, Mr. Salil Panigrahi, Co-Founder & Managing Director of Atmosphere Core, said, “We are building strong momentum in India, with new properties in key destinations. Visakhapatnam has always been central to our strategy given its importance as both a business and tourism hub. With this resort, we aim to offer a fresh, creative, and experience-led stay for a wide range of travellers, from leisure guests to those planning high-end weddings, MICE events, and holidays with family in a scenic and peaceful setting.”

Atmosphere Hillora Eco Resort Visakhapatnam will feature a mix of cottages, suites and private-pool villas, offering guests a premium stay experience surrounded by nature.

The resort will also offer a diverse dining experience with an all-day dining restaurant, café lounge, specialty restaurant, bar with lounge and library, along with a poolside bar. The culinary offerings will include international cuisines along with popular flavours from Southern India, complemented by a selection of fine wines and spirits.

For wellness seekers, the award-winning ELE|NA Ayur Spa will provide a relaxing experience with dedicated therapy rooms and expert therapists. Other facilities will include a swimming pool with an outdoor deck and a fully equipped fitness centre.

Designed as a destination for celebrations and business gatherings, the resort will feature extensive banqueting spaces including large convention halls, modern conference rooms, boardrooms and open-air venues. These facilities will cater to high-end weddings, MICE events and corporate meetings.

Visakhapatnam, also known as Vizag, continues to grow as an important destination combining tourism potential with business opportunities. The city attracts visitors with its coastline, beaches, Buddhist heritage circuits and eco-tourism locations, while also being a major industrial and logistics hub.

Home to India’s oldest shipyard, the Eastern Naval Command, two deep-water ports and several heavy industries, Vizag is also emerging as a growing destination for IT, Global Capability Centres and healthcare investments. This combination of tourism appeal and business growth continues to position Visakhapatnam as a key gateway in South India.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. A V N Govinda Rao, Managing Director of A V N G Developers LLP, said, Atmosphere Core’s legacy of excellence aligns perfectly with our vision to create a world-class luxury eco resort in this lush land parcel, rich in vegetation and surrounded by lakes and the rolling hills of Visakhapatnam. As this destination continues to grow in importance, this partnership will help strengthen Southern India’s premium tourism landscape and set new benchmarks in hospitality.”

Adding to this, Mr. Souvagya Mohapatra, Managing Director, Atmosphere Core (India, Nepal, Bhutan, & Sri Lanka), said,Visakhapatnam, with its awe-inspiring natural landscape, cultural heritage, and timeless appeal, is a natural choice for our expansion. As we enter this extraordinary destination, we look forward to delivering a progressive and immersive hospitality experience, thoughtfully tailored to its surroundings, redefining luxury hospitality, and catering to high-end weddings, important MICE events, and leisure holidaymakers during weekends and festivals.”

With this development, Atmosphere Core continues to expand its India portfolio while introducing experience-led luxury hospitality offerings in emerging destinations.


Cygnett Hotels Signs 50-Key Cozzet Khatu Shyam in Rajasthan

Cygnett Hotels Signs 50-Key Cozzet Khatu Shyam in Rajasthan

By Hariharan U

Published on August 19, 2026

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of a 50-key Cozzet hotel at Ringas near Khatu Shyam in Rajasthan, strengthening its presence in the state and expanding its premium economy portfolio across India's growing pilgrimage and regional travel markets.

The upcoming Cozzet Khatu Shyam will be located approximately 18 km from Khatu Shyam Ji Temple, one of Rajasthan's major pilgrimage destinations. The shrine recorded an estimated annual footfall of 2.54 crore devotees in 2025, making it the state's leading religious tourism destination and driving increased demand for organised accommodation and supporting hospitality infrastructure along the Khatu Shyam-Ringas corridor.

The hotel will benefit from its strategic location in Ringas, positioned just 100 metres from Ringas railway station and with direct access to NH-52, which connects the area with Jaipur and other parts of the region. The location is expected to make the property accessible to pilgrims, families, leisure travellers and transit guests.

image

A brownfield development, Cozzet Khatu Shyam is expected to open in mid-2027. The property will feature 50 contemporary rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, health club and swimming pool.

The hotel will also cater to the local social and events market through a 2,500 sq. ft. banquet venue capable of accommodating approximately 180–200 guests. The combination of accommodation, dining, wellness and event facilities is expected to position the property as a comprehensive hospitality offering for visitors to the destination.

Commenting on the signing, Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & Managing Director, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, said pilgrimage travel is emerging as an important driver of hospitality demand across India. He added that destinations attracting millions of visitors require dependable branded accommodation and consistent service standards, making Ringas a strong opportunity for Cozzet.

Cozzet by Cygnett is Cygnett Hotels & Resorts' premium economy and micro-hospitality brand. Built around its "Smart, Safe & Sensible" philosophy, the brand focuses on contemporary accommodation, essential amenities and efficient service for business, leisure and transit travellers.

The signing also advances Cygnett's broader expansion strategy for Cozzet. The brand currently has a development pipeline of approximately 600 keys, with properties under development and in pre-opening stages across destinations including Noida, Ayodhya, Amritsar, Jaipur and Arunachal Pradesh.

Cygnett plans to continue expanding Cozzet through an asset-light and scalable model, targeting pilgrimage centres, transit hubs, business markets and emerging urban destinations where demand for reliable, value-led branded accommodation is increasing.

With its entry into the Khatu Shyam-Ringas corridor, Cozzet adds another pilgrimage-led destination to its growing development pipeline while strengthening Cygnett's Rajasthan portfolio.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.