In another sure-sign that Caribbean tourism is increasing, according to recent statistics released by the government’s Bureau of Economic Research, the total number of visitors to the USVI in 2003 was 2.4 percent higher than in 2002.  Overnight hotel accommodations were up 6.3 percent from 2002, and air visitor arrivals increased by 3.5 percent. Approximately 1.8 million cruise passengers visited the islands in 2003, an increase of two percent from the previous year representing the majority of visitors to the territory.

These statistics support Governor Turnbull’s assertions during his recent State of the Territory address that “there were signs the economy is beginning to rebound and that indications also show
that our tourism industry is poised for a record year.”
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