The United States Department of Commerce released figures today on international travel and tourism to the United States for January, 2009. The gross number of international travelers was down 9% while the actual gross amount of spending was down 7% from one year ago.

Four countries (out of the top 20) actually showed increases compared to this same monthly period one year ago. These nations were (with their rate of increase): China (37%), Argentina (19%), Italy (6%) and Brazil (5%). Of special note is the fact that Brazilian tourism to the United States has increased its annual comparative growth rate for 32 straight months.

Western European visitation, of special importance to the Florida villas market, was down 12%. Our blog has expressed concern over this recognized trend several months ago.

To find out more about this International tourism reserach program, please go to:
http://www.tinet.ita.doc.gov/research/programs/i94/index.html

If you would like to subscribe to the monthly international arrivals reports, please go to:
http://www.tinet.ita.doc.gov/research/reports/i94/index.html

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