Tourstat data for November revealed an increase of 8.4 per cent in the number of inbound tourists when compared to the corresponding month in 2009.

November 2010 – Inbound tourists were estimated at 78,605, most of whom were holidaymakers. The majority of inbound tourists were first-time visitors albeit an increase in repeat tourists was recorded. Furthermore, 51 per cent of tourists visiting Malta spent a minimum of seven nights on the island. There was also an increase of 47 per cent in the number of tourists spending less than four nights in Malta. The majority of inbound tourists came from EU Member States, and in particular from the euro area. The UK and Italian markets continue to be the main origins for Maltese inbound tourism.

Total nights spent during November were estimated at 559,255, down by less than half a percentage point when compared to last year. Decreases were reported in the number of nights spent in private and in other collective accommodation. On the other hand, nights spent in hotel accommodation increased by 6 per cent. The average length of stay of these tourists was estimated at 7.1 nights, down by 0.6 of a night when compared with 2009 levels.

Total expenditure during November also increased with respect to 2009 levels and stood at €56 million. Increases were recorded in all expenditure categories, despite the net decrease in the number of nights. There was a rise in non-package expenditure.

January-November 2010 – Inbound tourists during this period totalled almost 1.3 million, up by 13 per cent when compared to the corresponding period last year. Increases were recorded in both the number of repeat tourists and in the number of first-time visitors, albeit the latter still constituted the majority. The average length of stay stood at 8.4 nights, at par with last year’s levels.

On a gender basis, male tourists exceeded females, and accounted for 51 per cent of total tourist trips. The largest share of tourists fell within the 25-44 age bracket. These were closely followed by the 45-64 category. However, increases were noted at both ends of the age spectrum, namely the 0-24 and the 65+ categories.

Total nights spent between January and November advanced by 12 per cent, reaching almost 11 million. The majority of guest nights were spent in collective accommodation, where an increase of 12 per cent was recorded over 2009. Total nights spent in private accommodation went up by 11 per cent.

Total tourist expenditure over this period was estimated at €1.1 billion, 22 per cent higher than last year. Increases were recorded throughout all expenditure categories. Total per capita expenditure stood at €853, up by 8 per cent over 2009.

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