Asian Tourists Are Chile’s Biggest Spenders

Asian tourists are by far the biggest spenders in Chile, averaging $1,174 apiece during a regular stay of 13.3 days in the South American nation.

According to a research study conducted by the National Tourism Service (SERNATUR), visitors from other world regions shell out an average of $569 during a relatively longer stay of 15.8 days.

According to the SERNATUR report, three quarters of all foreign tourists coming to Chile every year pick the South American nation to spend their vacations, while 13 percent go to the country to visit relatives and friends, and nearly 4 percent do it for business purposes.

“The most coveted destinations by foreign tourists are the desert areas of San Pedro de Atacama, Iquique and Arica; the coasts of Valparaiso and Coquimbo; Santiago and its surroundings; the region of Los Lagos, and Torres del Paine”, the report indicates.

Most travelers journeying to Chile are beachgoers, birdwatchers, people interested in visiting national parks and reserves, culture-vultures seeking for museums and cultural centers, and history buffs.