Malta experiencing an increase in tourists

Tourists arriving in Malta in June were estimated to have increased by 7.7% when compared to the same month in 2006, to stand at 117,421. The increase reflects primarily a rise in holiday-makers, mainly from the British, Scandinavian and Irish markets, contrasted with a decline in tourists from the German, French and Italian markets.

Total nights spent fell by 8.7% when compared to the same month in 2006. In fact, year-on-year, tourist nights in private and collective accommodation decreased, by 22.9 % and 2% respectively. Overall, the average length of stay is calculated at 8.2 nights, shorter by 1.4 nights when compared to June 2006.

Tourist arrivals in the first six months of the year also increased by 6.4% over the same period last year, totaling to at 501,802. The growth was primarily attributable to an increase in holiday visits, mainly from the British, Scandinavian, Irish and Italian markets. Decreases were recorded in respect of the French, German, Dutch and Austrian markets.

87% of all inbound visits comprised tourists coming from European Union member states. Although there was an increase in repeat tourism the data show that the overall increase was primarily characterised by a rise in first-time visits, the latter estimated to account for 66% of the total. Most tourists visiting Malta were The aged between 45 and 64, albeit the biggest increase is attributable to tourists aged under 24 years. Total nights spent decreased by 3.5 per cent when compared to the same period in 2006, implying shorter stays. Year-on-year, nights spent in private accommodation went down by 11.8%, while those in collective accommodation decreased by 0.8%.

Tourist nights in rented and owner-occupied accommodation decreased by 22.9% and 6.6% respectively, while those spent in lodgings with family and friends increased by 2.9%. With regard to guest-nights in collective accommodation there was a significant decrease in the 3-star category contrasted with an increase in the 5-star category. The average length of stay was calculated at 8.3 nights, down by 0.9 nights when compared to last year's level.

During the period under review, total tourist expenditure was estimated at Lm172.7 million, an increase of 3.7 per cent over the same period in 2006. The increase was underpinned by higher non-package expenditure and other expenditure. Although the majority still opt for package travel, direct bookings and non-package stays are showing an increasing trend. The National Statistics Office (NSO) survey published don Monday indicates that the per capita total expenditure was estimated at Lm352, down by 1.9% when compared to the same period in the previous year.

D.H.I. (Dream Holidays International) Ltd
9, Tourists Street
Qawra
Malta

Tel: 356 21 578100
Fax: 356 21 578635

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This release was published on openPR.