Global tourism recorded its highest growth in 2017, with international arrivals rising by 7%, a performance well over the 4% average since 2010. According to data by the World Tourism Barometer from the UN (UNWTO), international tourist arrivals amounted to 1.32 billion last year while the forecast for 2018 is very promising as this trend is expected to continue. Projections speak of a further boost between 4% and 5%.
Europe achieved remarkable results in 2017, with the south and the Mediterranean, in particular, standing out with 8% growth in international tourist arrivals compared to 2016. International tourist arrivals reached 671 million with notable performances from Southern European countries and Mediterranean Europe (+13 %), while there was also an increase in Western Europe (+ 7%), North, Central and Eastern Europe (+ 5%).
Africa stabilised its 2016 yield at 8%, Asia and the Pacific rose 6%, the Middle East + 5% and America + 3%.