Statistics obtained from the Belize Immigration Department indicate that the country has been welcoming an increasing number of visitors to its shores via cruise ship port, and the international airport early in 2005.

ÊThe most recent report for total tourism arrivals (exclusive of cruise passengers), which includes arrivals via land, air and sea show that cumulatively, January and February, 2005 recorded an increase of 2.3% percent over the same period in 2004.

In total Belize hosted 46,884 overnight visitors during the months of January - February 2005 surpassing the 45,811 recorded in 2004.

The Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) represents 70.5% of the country’s total arrivals. The total number of overnight arrivals documented at PGIA for January and February, 2005 was 35,004 compared to 32,039 for the same period last year. This represents a 9.3% increase over the same period last year.

The cruise sector also shows continued growth as 102 ships called to Belize’s port during the period January and February 2005, accounting for 191,441 passengers. This figure represents an increase of 10.4% over the same period in 2004 when 182,393 cruise passengers were recorded.

“It is heartening to note that both the cruise sector and overnight tourism continue to grow,” comments Director of Tourism, Tracy Taegar-Panton.

“The Belize Tourism Board assertively maintains its efforts to promote Belize in the international marketplace and pledges its support to create new opportunities that will compliment the overall growth of the industry,” comments Tourism Director, Tracy Taegar-Panton.
——-