Yesterday the globe celebrated World Tourism Day (WTD) with festivities well underway in host country Spain against a backdrop of news that for the first time, international tourism arrivals globally will exceed the 1 billion mark according to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).
Celebrated on the 27th September each year, the day aims to foster awareness across the international community on the significance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic values.
Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Manager at Taylor Wimpey España comments,
“Many tourism companies and government agencies with an interest in tourism come together each year to celebrate World Tourism Day with various different events. Tourism is one of the fastest growing economic sectors in the world and has helped propel social and economic progression in many countries.
“The host nation, Spain, is a prime example with the nation being the second most visited country of the world after France, thanks to its geography and rich cultural scene. In the first eight months of this year alone, Spain received 40.7 million international visitors; this was 3.6% more than in the same period of 2011. Tourism has always been an economic driver for Spain, even when the chips are down and this is why it is important we celebrate its value.”
For Spain, the Balearic Islands represent one of the most popular tourist destinations. In August this year, the Balearic Islands received 1.8 million international visitors, 2.8% more than the same month last year according to the survey of tourist movements in borders, Frontur, released recently by the Ministry of Industry.
Caroline Ellis, Commercial Assessor at Taylor Wimpey España who has lived for three years on the popular Balearic island of Mallorca in the town of Cala d’Or explains why it makes the perfect place for a holiday or second home purchase:
“Mallorca is a wonderful island and for me, one of the best areas is the charming town of Cala d’Or, situated on the South East of the island. Cala d’Or has everything you’d require when looking for a place in the sun – beautiful sandy, safe beaches, various sport facilities, and a charming marina with a huge choice of restaurants to suit everyone’s taste.
“The residents are mainly Spanish; however over the years it has become popular for other Europeans to make it their home. Because of the strength of community, the main supermarkets, shops, and banks are open all year round meaning many visitors come during different times of the year. And, even though Cala d’Or was one of the first major tourist resorts in Mallorca with the buildings themed on Ibiza’s small pretty white-washed homes, the town’s tourism offers the perfect balance of tranquillity and entertainment.”
For property hunters looking for high quality affordable property, Taylor Wimpey España has some excellent properties on offer in Mallorca at only 4% VAT until the end 2012.
