Global tourism visits to pass the 1 billion mark by 2012

Tourism is expected to grow about 3.3 percent annually during the next two decades, with international arrivals passing the 1 billion mark for the first time in 2012, up from 940 million in 2010. At that pace, the total number of international tourism arrivals will reach 1.8 billion by 2030.

With about 43 million international tourists joining the marketplace each year, 5 million people will be crossing international borders for leisure, business or other purposes such as visiting friends and family every day by 2030, according to a new report from the World Tourism Organization released during the organization’s 2011 general assembly in Gyeongju, Republic of Korea.

After a dip during the global recession, tourism bounced back in 2010, growing by about 7 percent from the previous year. The reported 940 million international tourist arrivals generated $919 billion in revenue. Tourism is forecast to grow by about 4 to 5 percent in 2011.

“The next 20 years will (see) continued growth for the sector; a more moderate, responsible and inclusive growth,” said United Nations Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai. ”This growth offers immense possibilities as these can also be years of leadership, with tourism leading economic growth, social progress and environmental sustainability, “ he said.

Source - summitcountyvoice