Panaji, Oct 8 (IANS): The closure of global tourism travel company Thomas Cook has had a "zero to minimal" impact on properties run by the Tata Group-run Indian Hotels Company Ltd (IHCL) in Goa, according to Vincent Ramos, Area Director of IHCL, which has a chain of five-star and business resorts in the coastal state.

Speaking to IANS, Ramos also said that the launch of Ama Stays & Trails, India's first branded product in the homestay market in Goa, was in response to evolving guest needs for local, immersive and authentic experiences.

Asked about the impact of the closure of Thomas Cook on IHCL properties in Goa, Ramos said: "There has been a zero to minimal impact".

In 2018, Thomas Cook was responsible for the arrival of nearly 2,000 foreign travellers a week, and its closure last month has put the travel and tourism industry in the coastal state in a piquant situation as far as international tourist footfalls are concerned.

Ramos also said that Goa continues to be one of the fastest growing states as far as well-developed social, physical and industrial infrastructures are concerned and that IHCL had been witnessing year-round "healthy occupancies" in the 13 properties spread across the state.

On the launch of Ama Stays & Trails properties in Goa, Ramos said that the venture is aimed at creating the perfect amalgamation of modern and old world living where the guests are offered immersive and authentic local experiences.

The two villas in Goa launched as part of the Ama Stays & Trails experience are 'Cardozo House', a four bed-roomed restored heritage Goan cottage and 'Villa Braganza', a two-storied modern villa which reflects the very essence of Goa.

Other Ama Stays & Trails properties are in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

"Ama Stays & Trails is ideal for people who like to experience local culture and will find plenty of opportunities to immerse themselves in the region's traditions and customs with delectable local dishes and culinary experiences, authentic cultural activities and exploring the unexplored jewels of the place," Ramos said.

"From taking a tour of the plantation, go birding with the region's 300 bird species or play golf at Coorg and Chikmagalur, to having a 'feni' experience and gazing at the truly aesthetic and beautiful Azulejos floor tiling which is locally hand-painted and authentically Goan at our charming Cardozo and Braganza bungalows in Candolim, Ama Stays & Trails has enough for guests to leave with enchanting memories," he added.