Despite ongoing adverse economic conditions and the political volatility of other regions in the Middle East in February and March, the Jordan Tourism Board has announced that tourism in the country remains almost unaffected.

UK overnight visitor numbers took only a slight hit in the first quarter of 2011, falling just 3.2 per cent compared to the same period in 2010 (down to 17,357 from 17,933 in 2010).

Officials were also quick to point out 2010 was a record year for tourism figures to Jordan and in spite of 2011 being a difficult year in many aspects (we can also add APD increases and a rise in VAT to factors influencing the UK holidaymaker’s travel plans), the 2011 results for the first quarter still vastly exceed those of 2009, with numbers rising from 13,684 to 17,357.

On a more positive note, the 6,991 UK visitors in March 2011 signify a 6.1 per cent increase to the 6,587 who visited Jordan in the same period in 2010.

The overall figures for Jordan tourism show a similar increase, with figures up by 6.9 per cent in total.

David Symes, Jordan Tourism Board country manager for UK and Ireland: “We are delighted visitor numbers remain positive and hope that Brits will continue to demonstrate their confidence in Jordan as a holiday destination throughout 2011.

“We hope recent rumours of a Royal honeymoon in Jordan will increase interest in the destination’s history, culture, adventure, and stunning landscapes, that provide a truly unforgettable holiday experience for all British travellers.”

The launch in March of easyJet’s new UK route to Amman further evidences sustained confidence in travel to Jordan, while current figures suggest that targets to end 2011 with positive visitor numbers will likely be realised, both for the UK and overall.