Germany is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travellers from all over the world, even at a time of economic difficulty, according to the latest figures. In September 2011 the destination achieved its best result since accommodation statistics started to be collected after the country’s reunification.

Germany continued to gain in popularity with holidaymakers in 2011, with a six per cent increase in visitor numbers between January and August. According to preliminary figures from the Federal Statistical Office, the total number of international overnight stays made in Germany came to 43.5 million, 2.3 million more than were recorded in the same period in 2010.

Officials at the German National Tourist Board have confirmed visitor numbers to the country have thus far been unaffected by the E.coli outbreak. The news comes as scientists in the country confirmed locally produced bean sprouts as the like cause of the outbreak.

Germany will set a new record in 2010 and generate more than 60 million overnight stays from foreign visitors for the first time, officials have confirmed. This result will mean around 3.5 million more overnights than in 2008, the best year on record so far, and around five million more than in the crisis year of 2009.

The International Air Transport Association has added its voice to the chorus of disapproval following the announcement of a new departure tax by the German government. Already branded a “black day” for aviation by Lufthansa chief executive Wolfgang Mayrhuber, the IATA has called the decision “short-sighted” and “irresponsible”.