Balearic Minister for Tourism determined to make sure tourism revival continues

PALMA
THE Balearic Minister for Tourism, Joana Barcelo, yesterday described July's 12 percent increase in tourist spending as “very positive”, especially considering that the Balearic rise was the sharpest in Spain, and pledged that the government is doing all it can to try and ensure that the upward trend continues and that this winter's season performs well.

Both bookings and expenditure increased last month and Barcelo said yesterday that she is confident the figures for September will be even better.

NOT AN EASY START
The Minister admitted that the summer, especially the start, has not been easy.
Apart from the economic problems the industry faced, it also had to deal with the volcanic ash cloud and the threat of industrial action by air traffic controllers who were already on a “go slow” in protest over wages and working conditions.

This month has also been a positive one.
According to the Majorcan Hotel Federation, they are expecting to end this month with an average occupation of around 95 percent, seven points higher than August last year and for September, they are currently looking at an occupancy of around 75 percent but that could still rise.

Both the Majorcan Hotel Federation and the Association of Hotel Chains agree that July was a water shed for the industry. “In July the season changed and we witnessed the arrival of more holiday makers and better hotel bookings.

DISCOUNTS “However, this late surge was sparked by a wide range of discounts and special offers,” Marilen Pol, the President of the Majorcan Hotel Federation said.

Nevertheless, according to Pol, many hoteliers have extended their special offers with savings of up to 20 percent. As a result, hotel revenue is slightly down on last year but, she said that if September performs well, the final balance could be a positive one come the end of the season,” she added.

But, September is full of special offers, especially in the UK.