Tourism grew by 20 per cent in June compared to the same month last year, the NSO said today.

Total nights spent went up by 9 per cent. During June, inbound tourists were estimated at 136,758, the majority being holiday makers. A significant increase was registered in the number of business tourists,

In line with previous months, the majority of inbound tourists came from EU Member States, the main markets being United Kingdom and Italy. The number of tourists from non-EU countries went up by 27 per cent. During the same month, tourists spent a total of 1.0 million nights, with an average length of stay of 7.4 nights. This average dropped by 0.8 when compared to the 2009 estimate. Guest nights in collective accommodation increased by 15 per cent, while total nights spent in private accommodation declined.

January-June 2010

Inbound tourists by mid-year reached 550,680, up by 11 per cent when compared to January- June last year. Increases were recorded in both repeat tourists and first-time visitors.

While the number of tourists on long stays remained almost unchanged, tourists staying for shorter periods (up to three nights) advanced by 25 per cent.

The majority of tourists opted for non-package travel;, however an increase in package trips was registered.

On a gender basis, the data indicate that the male proportion of tourists slightly exceeded females. The majority of tourists fell within the 45-64 age bracket.

Between January and June, total nights spent increased by 9 per cent, surpassing 4.1 million nights. Nights spent in collective and private accommodation went up by 10 and 7 per cent respectively.

The average length of stay stood at 7.5 nights, 0.1 less over 2009. During the period under review, total tourist expenditure was estimated at €397 million, indicating a growth of 11 per cent over 2009 levels. Increases were recorded throughout all expenditure categories.

At €721, total expenditure per capita for the first half of the year increased marginally, the NSO said.