Panaji, Nov 5 (TOI): Stating that Goa's tourism scene has changed over the last five years, the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) feels that the state government must consider how it chooses to spend its money on the industry.

At the fifth anniversary and release of the 61st edition of 'Find All Goa'-an event and entertainment guide-TOI posed a question to the publishers who have been marketing Goa, on whether they found any changes in Goa's tourism offerings over the last five years.

"We need to improve in every area of tourism," said Michael Lobo of FinDoll communications and publications. Lobo admitted that Goa "has to upgrade all its tourism-related infrastructure if it has to compete with international tourism destinations". Moreover, with tourism being among the biggest industries in Goa, he felt that more initiative from the government was required. "Tourism brings so much into the government's coffers. Whatever is collected should be given back and re-invested in tourism," said Lobo.

TTAG president Ralph de Sousa said if the government prioritizes its spending it would make a world of difference to the state. The government has earmarked Rs 33 crore as its tourism budget for the current financial year. Asked if the government should allocate more funds to the sector, de Sousa replied: "It's how we spend this money that will make a lot of difference."

While Goa is considered relatively cleaner than many other states in the country, the recent garbage management crisis has threatened to infect tourism too with international tourists putting a premium on cleanliness and sanitation, felt de Sousa. Lobo stressed, "Goa has to maintain its cleanliness and maintain top sanitation standards."

FinDoll director Tomoko Lobo, in turn, said that Goa's tourism industry has seen changes over the last five years that could be marketed. "There are more artistes, activities and restaurants coming up. Goa's tourism industry is changing," she said.

Supported by the tourism department, Find All Goa has a print run of 10,000 copies which are distributed free through the tourism department and Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) counters at the airport and over 300 outlets and establishments in the state.