During the first quarter of 2016, Mauritius attracted 327,836 tourists, a 12.5 per cent increase over the previous year.

Tourism revenues increase by 13.9 per cent, to MUR15 billion in the quarter.

Visitors during the same period in 2015 reached 291,329.

According to Statistics Mauritius, tourism revenue in 2016 will be 1.9 per cent higher than the previous forecast, after a surge in visitors during the first quarter.

The statistics office also raised its forecast for 2016 arrivals to 1,240,000 from 1,230,000 tourists.

Tourism earnings are now expected to reach MUR55 billion this year, up from earlier forecast of MUR54 billion according to Statistics Mauritius.

Last year, tourism earnings totalled MUR50.2 billion.

Statistics from the UK in particular show that from February 2016, tourist arrivals have increased by 8.5 per cent compared to February 2015.

From January to February 2016, tourist numbers reached a total of 16,005.

Rhys Powell, MTPA sales and marketing manager commented: “This is fantastic news for Mauritius and we hope to see more visitor arrivals in the next quarter of 2016.

“Looking at the UK specifically the new airlift from Turkish Airlines has helped towards additional arrivals to Mauritius, as well as the Emirates sixth daily flight from London Heathrow to Dubai giving more flight options via this hub than ever before.

“It is important that the UK market doesn’t fall behind and we need to look at ways to entice customers in the quieter months.

“One way of doing this is with our new campaign Mauritius 365, which we hope will better educate customers on the islands rich assets and experiences.”

The Mauritius 365 campaign showcasing the island as a year round destination, the initiative includes over 100 deals on land based, nautical and spa activities for all to enjoy throughout the typically quieter months of May through to September.