MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Survey of Falklands’ domestic tourism

New research published by the Falkland Islands Tourist Board this week puts an estimated value of £1,122,000 per year on domestic tourism. The estimate was made following a telephone survey carried out during March 2009, which also enabled the tourist board to calculate that 11,500 domestic trips are taken by Falkland Islanders each year.

Domestic tourism can be defined as Falkland Island residents visiting destinations within the Falkland Islands itself. It can include anything from a stay with relatives in Camp to a restful weekend in one of the island lodges to a local camping trip with friends.

According to Mr Downing, the average spend per person per trip was £104.43 and the average length of stay was 1.8 nights.

The survey also reports on exactly what domestic tourists spend their money on, with 45% of the total spend being spent on accommodation, 19% on domestic flights, and 14% on food and drink.

“The results are extremely encouraging”, said Mr Downing. “Domestic tourism represents a great opportunity for the Falkland Islands, especially at a time when international markets are being affected by the economic downturn. We want to continue to enthuse and inspire those living here to holiday within the islands rather than spend their money overseas.”