Falklands’ expects 20% boost in UK visitors because of the war’s 30th anniversary

Friday, May 25th 2012 - 18:52 UTC

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Stanley on a busy summer tourism day (FITB)

The UK dominated as the key generating market for tourism in 2011 according to new data released by the Falkland Islands Tourist Board (FITB). Last year land-based tourism from the UK was up 5% to a total of 4.164 arrivals (this figure does not include cruise arrivals).

This is a trend that’s set to continue. The Falklands’ destination is expecting almost a 20% boost in UK visitors in 2012, totaling almost 5,000 arrivals to this wildlife haven in the South Atlantic.

This rise will be partly attributed to the 30th anniversary of the Falklands Conflict. The arrival of oil workers in the Falklands continues to grow and is assisting to drive the upward trend of arrivals.

“These figures are really encouraging and confirm Brits’ love affair with discovering un-spoilt destinations that offer something that little bit different where nature reigns supreme” commented a spokesperson for the tourist board.

Overall, total tourist arrivals to the Falkland Islands in 2012 are expected to increase by 12% to 57.000, spending around £7million. This figure includes cruise passengers, overnight visitors and domestic tourists. Of this figure, 35.000 are expected to arrival via cruise ships and expedition vessels, whilst 7.430 overnight tourists are anticipated.

These figures dovetail the uplift in tourism to South America which enjoyed the second highest regional growth rate worldwide, up 10.1% in 2011.

FITB has recently launched its first even destination iApp and is about to re-launch its consumer website www.falklandislands.com. (Keene)

Categories: Tourism, Falkland Islands.

Tags: Falkland Islands, Falkland Islands Tourist Board, Falkland War, Falklands’ conflict 30th anniversary, tourism.

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Max
~4000 visitors from England !....what for ?
ski ?... beachs ?...historic places ?...diving ?....fish eating ?
May 25th, 2012 - 07:17 pm 0
skåre
@Max

Solidarity. Something you wouldn't comprehend.
May 25th, 2012 - 07:27 pm 0
JohnN
And not just from UK - my Toronto cousin really enjoyed his trip to the Falklands in March. Actually, with the higher-profile of the Falklands in Argentina because of CFK's revived anti-Falklands strategies, no doubt but that there will be more Argentine tourism interest as well. Argentines were second to British visitors in last count, and quite likely will remain so. FITB website is good as one-stop-shop to find Falklands tourist businesses, attractions, accommodations, travel: www.falklandislands.com.
May 25th, 2012 - 07:29 pm 0

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