Positive Forecast

The UNWTO reports that international tourist arrivals worldwide grew by 6% in the January to April period of 2017 compared to the same period last year, with business confidence reaching its highest levels in a decade.

Sustained growth in most major destinations and a steady rebound in others drove results and prospects for the May to August period of 2017 remain high.

Destinations worldwide welcomed 369 million international tourists (overnight visitors) in the first four months of the year, 21 million more than in the same months of 2016 (up 6%), according to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer.

The January to April period usually represents some 28% of the yearly total and covers the winter season of the Northern Hemisphere and the summer season of the Southern Hemisphere, as well as the Chinese New Year and Easter holidays, among others.

International arrivals reported by destinations around the world were positive overall, with very few exceptions.

Most of 2016’s strong performers maintained momentum, while destinations that struggled in previous years continued to rebound in the first part of 2017.

This is especially reflected in the better results of the Middle East (up 10%), Africa (up 8%) and Europe (up 6%). Asia and the Pacific (up 6%) and the Americas (up 4%) continued to enjoy robust growth.

UNWTO secretary-general, Taleb Rifai said: “Destinations that were affected by negative events during 2016 are showing clear signs of recovery in a very short period of time, and this is very welcoming news for all, but particularly for those whose livelihoods depend on tourism in these destinations.”

And Rifai continued: “As we celebrate 2017 as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, we welcome the continued development of tourism and recall that with growth comes increased responsibility to ensure tourism can contribute to sustainability in all its three pillars – economic, social and environmental. Growth is never the enemy and it is our responsibility to manage it in a sustainable manner.”

Go to http://www.unwto.org for more.