Gambling in Goa
2nd Mar 2007The former Portugeuse colony of Goa is planning to launch 5 offshore casinos to attract the wealthier of tourists.
Reknowned for being a hippie holiday destination, the casino's will be a stark contrast to the white sand beaches.
The Government if Goa is the only Indian government to legalise gambling, in a move designed to imitate the success of Macau's gambling success.
The tactic seems to have worked as they reported a 13% increase in tourism last year, earning the government £4 billion.
There are 8 land based casinos already in Goa, housed in 5 star hotels and the first water based casino opened up a decade ago.
Support for the new casinos is strong, however although 10 proposals were accepted, only 5 licences are to be granted.
The current water based casino in Goa is named Caravela and travels up and down the Mandovi River. This casino is packed out every night and demand far outweighs supply here.
Sanjith Rodriques, from the Tourism Development Corp said "We alreadt have one (offshore casino) and we are going to put up more offshore platforms as they are an attraction for visitors who want an evening out to splurge in floating casinos. Floating casinos will provide more novelty and they are an attraction. Tourism here is growing and such attractions are a must have."
With all the plans being put into action, Goa could soon become the gambling capital of India, with visions of rising to a par with Las Vegas.
