Lanzarote Visitor Numbers Continue To Rise

Lanzarote Visitor Numbers Continue To Rise
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By Lanzarote Guidebook .Com - Oct 12, 2008 - 8:21 AM
Despite the falling pound, failing airlines and the bleak economic outlook British and Irish holiday makers are still reluctant to relinquish their place in the sun. As figures recently released by the Spanish airport authority AENA reveal that foreign visitor numbers to Lanzarote have increased for the year to date. With the British tourist market leading the way.

The AENA figures show that 571,851 British tourists have visited Lanzarote in the first eight months of 2008. Representing a very healthy 7.9% increase on 2007 figures.

And it´s not just the British who are refusing to surrender their holidays in Spain. As Irish numbers have also risen – up 4.7% for the year to date, with a total of 150.003 visitors. So cementing Lanzarote´s position as the most popular destination in Spain amongst Irish tourists.

Overall, foreign visitor numbers to the island have increased by 3.4% for the year to date to August end. With the Scandinavian market also showing large percentage increases in visitor numbers.

The only negative note has been sounded in the German market (traditionally Lanzarote´s second largest) – where a long term decline in holiday makers continues as Lanzarote is eschewed in favour of other destinations. With tourist visits down a whopping 10.2%.

However, this decline has partly been offset by an increase in tourism from mainland Spain, where Lanzarote is currently in vogue. With visitor numbers up by 3.7% during the first half of 2008 according to data compiled by the Canary Island Tourist Board.

Collectively, these figures represent some of the best results recorded in some years. And should trends continue in a similar vein for the remainder of 2008 Lanzarote will have enjoyed its highest visitor numbers since 2003.

Yet despite this increase local hoteliers are reporting mixed levels of occupation. Reflecting the fact that many tourists opt for apartments or holiday villas in Lanzarote over hotel accommodation. With the latter accounting for around just one third of the total of 65,000 tourist beds on offer.

Many local businesses, such as bars and restaurants, are also reporting tough trading conditions – blaming the rise of all inclusive resorts and the diminishing disposable incomes of visitors.

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