By James Wilkinson at IPW in Las Vegas
Arrivals to the United States are soaring, with data released at International Pow Wow (IPW) in Las Vegas showing strong growth should continue through 2018.
The U.S Department of Commerce revealed 2012 was a record-breaking year for international travel and tourism arrivals, with spending reaching a record USD$168.1 billion, up 10% on 2011.
Emerging markets drove the growth for the United States in 2012, led by China with 35% over 2011. And it’s just the start of things to come with China expected to jump by almost 230% by 2018.
“This is good news as we continue to focus on a variety of efforts to boost travel and tourism to the United States,” said Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, Francisco Sánchez. “Increasing international visitors helps grow our economy and create more jobs.
“These results show that the President’s National Travel and Tourism Strategy are working as the Administration continues to focus its efforts to make America more welcoming to visitors from all around the world.”
The United States is aiming to receive 100 million international tourists by 2021, who would spend an estimated USD$250 billion.
The nation presently receives 60 million visitors and expectations are high for more travellers to arrive from China, Brazil, India and other emerging markets.
Between now and 2018, growth is forecast from a number of nations including China (up 229%), Brazil (up 66%), India (up 43%) and Australia (up 36%).
IPW is being held in Las Vegas until Thursday local time (June 13) and next year Chicago will play host to the largest travel and tourism event in America from April 5-9, 2014.
HM travelled to Las Vegas on Qantas, which offers daily flights to the city from Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney via Los Angeles in partnership with American Airlines. Qantas has recently upgraded the Boeing 747s that fly on the Australia-Los Angeles route, which feature the new A380-inspired interiors including new, larger economy class seats in a cabin that’s highlighted by an extensive range of entertainment on demand alongside a great selection of Australian wine and meals designed by star chef Neil Perry. For bookings, visit www.qantas.com