The number of Maltese going to the UK eased slightly in July although all other popular EU destinations for Maltese holidaymakers saw increases.
The NSO said today that 32,176 Maltese went abroad in July, up by 1.8 per cent over the corresponding month of 2009.
A total of 7,392 Maltese went to the UK in July this year, compared to 7,392 in July last year and 5,709 in July 2008. Tourism to the UK had increased because of the favourable exchange rate.
Trips to non-EU destinations (standing at 3,668) continued their downward trend.
As in previous years the majority of outbound tourists during this month were men and stood at 17,123 (53 per cent). The largest proportion of outbound trips were carried out by those in the 25-44 age group. These made up 36 per cent of the total.
Same-day visitors were estimated 3,620.
During the first seven months of the year, the number of outbound tourist trips stood at 148,963, with an increase of 4% compared to the same months last year.
EU destinations made up 86 per cent of the total (127,508), whereas non-EU trips were claculated at 21,455. The most popular destination was Italy.