The tourism sector in Alicante province closed the year on a strong note, maintaining the high levels of activity seen throughout most of 2024.

Occupancy rates on the Costa Blanca exceeded 80 per cent for New Year’s Eve, a figure that was well-received by local establishments. Although slightly lower than the previous year – when New Year’s Day fell on a Monday – this performance remained impressive. Inland accommodations also saw positive results, with occupancy reaching 74 per cent, nine points above the national average.

Mayte García, general secretary of the hotel association Hosbec, noted that coastal occupancy averaged around 80 per cent, with some destinations surpassing this percentage. She highlighted the stability achieved throughout the year, attributing it to the loyalty of visitors and efforts by establishments to improve their services and activities.

High demand was not limited to the coast, as inland areas also experienced strong end-of-year activity. According to surveys conducted by Turisme Comunitat Valenciana, interior accommodations showed dynamic performance, supported by feedback from various specialised organisations.

In the Valencian Community as a whole, coastal reservations were similar to the previous year’s 75 per cent occupancy rate, while inland areas saw only a slight decline of one point. The city of Valencia surpassed 64 per cent occupancy.

Marián Cano, Regional Minister for Innovation, Industry, Trade, and Tourism, expressed gratitude for the tourism sector’s efforts throughout the year to promote sustainable, high-quality, and diverse products and experiences. These initiatives, she noted, helped solidify the region as a favourite destination for visitors.

Historic Tourism Figures for the Valencian Community
The Regional Minister also celebrated 2024 as a landmark year for the Valencian Community, which achieved historic tourism figures. In the first ten months of the year, more than ten million foreign tourists visited the region, marking a 16.3 per cent increase. These visitors generated over €13 billion in expenditure, a remarkable 23.1 per cent year-on-year growth.

Complementing the city’s demographic expansion, Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández airport also reported significant growth in 2024. This surge in passenger numbers positions Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández as one of the fastest-growing airports in Spain. The airport’s role as a cargo hub further strengthens its importance.

Source: euroweeklynews.com