TOURISM NUMBERS & SPEND UP
Written by author on May 10, 2014
Overseas tourism visits to Scotland increased in the last year which led to an increase in overseas tourism expenditure, according to figures released by Office for National Statistics.
Overseas tourists increased by 10% in the full year 2013 and spent £1.68 billion, 20% more than in 2012.
The majority of overseas visitors come from Europe as does the majority of overseas expenditure.
There was a 32% increase in spend from visitors from the rest of the world, excluding Europe and North America, such as Australia and India.
There was a significant increase, 220,000 trips in 2013 compared to 2012, in tourists visiting rural areas (the North and South of Scotland).
Tourism Minister Fergus Ewing said:
“While 2013 was a challenging time for our tourism economy, visitors from overseas markets continue to grow. These encouraging figures illustrate the demand from long-haul tourists for holidaying in Scotland.
“The rises in expenditure suggest that Scotland is as a destination offering quality experiences and visitors are prepared to spend their money in our hotels, tourism attractions and restaurants as a result.
“This success is also due to the warmth of welcome of the people who work in the tourism industry. Their drive and commitment is delivering results and helping to provide a memorable visitor experience for our guests.
“Scotland’s outstanding natural beauty was celebrated throughout 2013, the Year of Natural Scotland. Consequently, our rural areas recorded significant increases in visitor numbers, a testament to the exceptional scenery and cultural attractions that these areas offer to tourists.
“This year of Homecoming will see the eyes of the world focussed on as we host the Commonwealth Games and Ryder Cup.
“People from across the globe with an affinity to Scotland as well as those without are invited to join the celebration which will provide a lasting legacy for our tourism industry.”
