The Middle East might still be simmering in parts, but the number of tourists arriving in Israel in 2012 shows no signs of slowing down from 2011 (the second highest ever year for tourism).
In January 2012, some 189,000 tourists visited Israel, almost identical to last year’s numbers, and 15% up on January 2010 – which was Israel’s record year for tourism.
There was also an increase of some 4% on the number of tourists arriving by air, with some 157,000 visits. And what is a boost for Eilat’s re-marketing efforts as a winter sun destination, some 5,400 tourists arrived by direct flights to Ovda and Eilat, which is up 15% on January 2011.
The situation in Egypt and Syria has not helped the number of day visitors, down about 27% compared to 2011. We guess those kind of visitors may well steer clear while the troubles in the region continue.
Our pal over at the Ministry of Tourism, Stas Misezhnikov, had this to say:
The year 2012 opened with vigorous and intensive work by the Tourism Ministry to achieve Israel’s tourism potential, by adjusting vacation cost and creating marketing activities to maintain Israel’s image as an attractive tourism destination. This activity will allow us to meet our target for the year 2012 – 4 million tourists and as a result, an increase in revenue for the economy and the number of employees in the tourism industry.
Come on you 4 million! If you still need convincing, here are ten awesome reasons to visit Israel in 2012!