Outbound tourist trips in February were estimated at 17,426, an increase of 11.9 per cent when compared to the corresponding month last year. In addition total same-day visitors were estimated at 1,397, according to National Statistics Office figures released yesterday.

The total outbound tourism to EU destinations during the month under review was estimated at 15,060, an increase of 1,677 trips when compared to last year. A further 2,366 trips headed towards non-EU destinations. Italy and UK emerged as the most popular destinations visited by Maltese tourists. Male outbound tourists made up 62 per cent of total tourists.

January – February 2010

During the first two months of 2010, outbound tourists were estimated at 34,822. Of these, 29,737, travelled to EU destinations; the most visited countries were UK and Italy. Together, these destinations accounted for 59 per cent of total outbound trips chosen by Maltese tourists. Male passengers exceeded females and accounted for 62 per cent of total trips. On the other hand female tourists remained almost unchanged when compared to the last year.

The largest proportion of outbound passengers fell within the 25-44 age bracket, followed by those in the 45-64 age group. Together, these categories accounted for the vast majority of outbound tourists.