UK visitors to Tunisia more than doubled last month, with a 50.7 per cent increase on July 2011. The resilient country saw a 7.2 per cent increase on the country’s record-breaking visitors figures of July 2010.

Figures for January to July 2012 were 53.8 per cent higher than the same period in 2011 with Irish visitors increasing a staggering 83.9 per cent when compared to last year. To date, over 180,000 visitors from the UK and Ireland have travelled to Tunisia this year.

The latest figures demonstrate the resilience of the UK market, with British visitors heading to Tunisia to celebrate the country’s new found freedom and optimism. 

2012 has seen a number of new routes, hotel openings, new attractions and promotions from tour operators being unveiled.

National carrier Tunisair has now added Manchester to its UK airports alongside London Gatwick and London Heathrow. Tunisia also recently launched a connecting Tunis-Djerba flight, offering a simpler alternative for international travellers wishing to visit the beautiful island.

The renowned Bardo museum reopened its doors to visitors in May after years of expansion and renovation. The exhibition showcases ancient mosaics, the oldest dating back to the 2nd century. Meanwhile Star Wars fanatics flocked to Tunisia this year as the cult film celebrated its 35th anniversary. The Tunisian Sahara provided much of the movie’s background.

“It is wonderful to see so many people from the UK and Ireland travelling back to Tunisia. I only expect to see these figures increase as more visitors learn about our incredible country,” says Wahida Jaiet, UK & Ireland Director for the TNTO.

“Tunisia is spoilt with luxury hotels, world class thalassotherapy centres, beautiful beaches and thousands of years of history. It is a pleasure to share all our country has to offer with so many new and returning visitors from the UK and Ireland.”