Tourists up by 23.6% over February 2010

The last week of February was characterised by a substantial increase in tourist arrivals as a result of the unrest in Libya. During this period 11,855 passengers arrived by air and sea, with some departing by air on the same day (statistically treated as visitors), and most staying at least one night (statistically treated as tourists) either on boats or in hotels. The average length of stay of these tourists was estimated at nearly two nights per person.

Albeit this effect, the majority of tourists visiting Malta during this period were holiday makers with an average length of stay of 8.0 nights, up by 0.2 of a night over last year. The majority of tourists came from the UK and Italy while a substantial increase was noted in French tourists.

Together, the British and Italian markets made up half the tourist arrivals for the month.

Total nights spent during February were estimated at 524,494, an increase of 26% over last year's levels. Guest nights in collective accommodation increased by 19%, while total nights spent in other accommodation (including private accommodation) rose by 58%. Total expenditure for the month advanced by 17%, with an increase noted in all expenditure categories.Inbound tourists during this period were estimated at 130,340, up by 19% over 2010.

Increases were noted in the number of both package and non-package trips, yet in absolute terms the latter constituted the majority. The average length of stay for this period stood at 7.9 nights.

On a gender basis, male tourists exceeded females, and accounted for 56% of total tourist trips. The majority of tourists fell within the 25-44 age bracket, closely followed by the 45-64 age group. A substantial increase was also noted in the number of tourists under 25 years of age.

Total nights spent during this period were estimated at 1,024,628, up by 21% over last year. In absolute terms, the majority of guest nights were spent in collective accommodation.

However in percentage terms, a substantial increase was noted in the number of tourists residing in private accommodation.

Total tourist expenditure for the first two months this year was estimated at €92.4 million, up by 16% over last year. Increases were recorded in all expenditure categories, with an average of €824 per capita, or 14% higher than last year.