European Travel Commission Forecasts Record Tourism Year in 2006

If the figures for 2005 are any indication, Europe could receive more American travelers this year than the record 13.1 million set in 2000. In a steady upward trajectory since 2003, U.S. arrivals in Europe have climbed past 12 million, to 12.6 million in 2005 –four percentage points shy of 2000. The numbers also surpassed the European Travel Commission´s projected 12.4 million US visitors.

Europe´s popularity has stood steadfast in recent years despite the downturn in global travel following 2001, concern about fluctuating exchange rates and competition from emerging destinations.

Film tourism has taken off in the wake of successful tourism campaigns behind blockbuster movies. This year brings the huge Da Vinci Code movie wave, anticipated to be an even bigger hit than the Da Vinci Code novel.

The tourism boards of France, Britain and Scotland have teamed up with Eurostar, the high speed train connecting Paris and London, to promote Da Vinci Code travels that spotlight spectacular sites in France, England and Scotland.

Slow Boats in Europe American cruise passenger totals grew by 9 percent last year to 9.76 million guests, (out of 11.18 million worldwide).

Northern Europe and the Mediterranean were among the top destinations, and this year the Med is hotter yet. Windstar has increased its Med sailings by 30 percent this year.

Royal Caribbean positioned Voyager of the Seas in Europe this year, the first time it has put a 3100-passenger vessel in Europe. Regent´s Seven Seas Navigator returned to Europe for the first time in four years, and in 2007 will add eight new Europe calls.