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| Hospitality Today | Summer 2017
The hospitality market:
figures & forecasts
International tourist arrivals worldwide grew by 6% in January to
April 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, according to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer.
Destinations worldwide received 369m
international tourists (overnight visitors)
in the first four months of the year,
up 21m (6%).
The January-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 (+10%),
Africa (+8%) and Europe (+6%). Asia and
the Pacific (6%) and the Americas (+4%)
continued to enjoy robust growth.
“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”,
said UNWTO Secretary-General Taleb Rifai.
International arrivals in Europe (+6%)
rebounded in January-April after mixed
results last year, as confidence returned to
some destinations that were impacted by