Russian tourists spent $31 billion abroad last year

Holiday expenditure increased in 2017 with tourists from Russia among the world's top spenders, according to the World Tourism Organization UNWTO.

Statistics showed continued strong demand for international tourism across all world regions, as Chinese tourists remained the biggest spenders last year with $258 billion spent.

Both emerging and advanced economies fueled growth, which was led by the United States. The world’s second-largest outbound market, the US spent $12 billion more on travel abroad. 

Russian tourism rebounded after a few years of decline, up by 13 percent, to reach $31 billion. Russia has climbed three places to re-enter the top 10 at number eight.

“Emerging economies play a key role in tourism development and we are very pleased to see the rebound of the Russian Federation and Brazil, and the ongoing rise of India, as these key emerging outbound markets contribute to growth and market diversification in many destinations,” said UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili.

Expenditure from Germany (the third-largest market) and the United Kingdom (4th) both increased by three percent, and from France (5th) one percent.

Australia (6th) reported seven-percent growth, and Canada (7th) a nine-percent increase. Completing the top ten were South Korea and Italy.

Strong tourism expenditure reflects enhanced connectivity, increased visa facilitation, and a global economic upswing, said the UNWTO.

Strong results in outbound tourism were consistent with a seven-percent increase in international tourist arrivals. Demand for travel was particularly high in Europe, where arrivals increased by eight percent.

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