Spain Stays Strong During Downturn

Spanish tourism has remained resilient throughout the recession compared to other eurozone countries, according to the Spanish Tourist Office.

Paco Gutierrez, promotions executive from the Spanish Tourist Office, commented that the success of the country in attracting tourists was because of the popularity of the country.

Mr Gutierrez went on to say that cities like Madrid and Barcelona are traditionally popular, particularly among UK citizens.

The news comes after official figures showed that Spain and France were the most popular destination for tourists and accounted for 36 per cent of all visits (13.8 million and 10.9 million respectively). This was followed by the USA, the Irish Republic, Italy, Germany and Portugal.

Spain can also offer tourists good value for money despite the economic downturn, explained Mr Gutierrez.

Majorca and Ibiza are two of the most popular destinations in Spain, according to research by Co-operative Travel.

Madrid is another popular destination in Spain and home of the Three Kings (Reyes Magos) parade which is set to take place on January 5th and 6th 2010. The event is known to be more important to Spanish children than Christmas and will include theatrical re-enactments, the distribution and other celebrations.

RDO Member Resort Properties has Spanish interests in The Paramount in Tenerife, part of Resort Properties' Club Paradiso resort portfolio.