Spain receives record number of visitors in 2007

New statistics have revealed that Spain welcomed its highest ever number of overseas visitors last year.

"59.2 million people travelled to Spain from other countries during 2007"

Data from the Industrial, Tourism and Trade Ministry states that 59.2 million people travelled to Spain from other countries at some point during 2007, making the country the second most popular tourist destination worldwide.

This figure represents a 1.7 per cent increase on visitor numbers for 2006, Expatica.com reports, with a growing number of people becoming attracted to Spain's warm climate, lively cities and picturesque coastline.

According to the statistics, British people made up the largest single group of visitors, with 27.5 per cent of all arrivals coming from the UK. However, German holidaymakers were also well represented, while the number of arrivals from the US rose by 22 per cent.

Foreign visitors continue to make a significant contribution to the Spanish economy, with their total spending increasing by 3.5 per cent during 2007.

Recent figures from the Spanish airports authority state that passenger levels at Malaga Airport grew by 3.9 per cent last year, while the number of people flying to Alicante's El Altet hub saw a similar increase.

Article from Bancaja Habitat