MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Chile attracts more foreign tourists

Foreign tourists in Chile during the first quarter of 2004 increased 21,1% compared to the same period in 2003, reaching 600,000 according to the Chilean Tourist Service, Senatur.

The money spent by foreign tourists in the first quarter was estimated in 300 million US dollars representing a 23% increase over the same period in 2003.

"These numbers give an idea of the successful international promotion jointly launched by the Tourist Service and the private sector", said Oscar Santelices, Director of Senatur.

"Over 1,3 million US dollars were invested in promotion during the first quarter, 49% government funds and the rest by private tourism organizations", added Mr. Santelices.

The most significant increase in number of tourists includes Italians with a 37% increase; Canada, 35%; Mexico 30% and United States 27,9%.

According to Senatur statistics last year 1.697.298 foreign tourists visited Chile, representing a 13,8% increase over 2002.