Destinations

Staying Strong

ETC-intl-tourist-arrivals

Despite geopolitical turbulence and slow economic growth in the Eurozone, international tourist arrivals to Europe have been growing steadily during the first half of 2015.

According to the European Travel Commission’s (ETC) latest report, “European Tourism — Trends & Prospects,” the majority of European destinations recorded positive results during the summer period in 2015.

Data up to August suggest a 5% increase in tourist arrivals to Europe compared to the same period last year. However, more importantly, the region was able to offset the sag in arrivals from Russia and is expected to follow and upward trend towards the end of the year.

The ETC also noted that growth was buoyed by large intra-regional destinations and the ongoing economic recovery of the Eurozone.

Standout growth destinations were Iceland (up 27%) and Romania (up 18%). Double-digit growth was also reported by Slovenia and Serbia (both up 13% ), Ireland and Montenegro (both up 12% ). Hot spot Mediterranean destinations Croatia (up 8%), Italy (up 5%), Malta (up 5%) and Spain (up 4%) also contributed to shape demand in the region during the summer period despite economic uncertainties.

Eduardo Santander, executive director of the ETC, said: “Within Europe, we need to look at our product and our services; we need to share best practice and push deep cooperation between private and public sector.”

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