United Kingdom
United States
Asia Pacific
Record year for European tourism
The numbers of travellers to Europe rose by 4% last year over 2004 despite terrorist attacks, floods, droughts and forest fires.
The rise, representing 18 million additional arrivals, gave Europe a record tourism year, according to the European Travel Commission.
Prospects for 2006 are likely to see the increase tempered to around 2%-3% due to widespread concerns over bird flu,the prospects of renewed terrorist attacks and natural disasters.
Turkey proved to be the big winner in 2005, with visitor numbers up 21%, while Lativa, Lithuania, Monaco and Greece also recording double digit growth.
ETC executive director Rob Franklin said: “Although France and Italy registered disappointing results for the second consecutive year, there has been no change in the top five European rankings of arrivals and receipts.
“France still leads in terms of arrivals, ahead of Spain, Italy, the UK and Germany, but it takes second place to Spain in the international receipts’ ranking.”
Report by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
Exploring Brooklands Museum with Alex Patterson
Global Tourism Challenges and Upcoming Events: A Conversation with Don Welsh
Peebles Barbeque: A Legacy of Flavor and Tradition
Exploring Bok Tower Gardens with Erica Smith
Rue’s Living Water Boat Cruises: Exploring Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes
Durango and Silverton Railroad: A Timeless Journey Through History and Scenic Beauty
Walt Leger on New Orleans’ Resilience and Major Events Ahead
Cindy Mackin Shares Estes Park’s Winter Thrills
Mark Jaronski of Explore Georgia on FIFA World Cup 2026
Connecting Small Businesses to Global Tourism Markets: Nate Huff of Tourism Exchange
North Carolina’s Resilience: Wit Tuttell on Recovery and Tourism
Kittipong Prapattong’s Plan for Thailand’s Tourism Growth: Taxes, Visas, and Campaigns
Qatar Airways adding Manchester flights
EU entry-exit system delayed again
ATC strike in Greece could disrupt flights this week
Jet2 unveils Samos as new Greek destination for summer 2026
Icelandair launches inaugural flight to Nashville