Based on data released by the Central Bureau of Statistics, the first quarter of 2012 registered an all time record high for incoming tourism to Israel. During the months of January through March 2012 there has been an increase of 2% in comparison to the same period last year, and an increase of 1% in comparison to January through March 2010,(the previous record high for incoming tourism). The information from the Central Bureau of Statistics further shows that the first quarter of 2012 maintains the stability of tourists entering Israel – the current number stands at 637,200 entries, same as of March of last year.

In addition, in March 2012 there were over 41,000 day visitors recorded compared to approximately 23,000 day visitors recorded in March 2011, an increase of 78%. The geopolitical situation in Egypt last year apparently led to a decline in day visitors’ entry and now there has been an improvement and a return to the norm. Further testament to this is evident in the amount of entries registered through the Egyptian border compared to March 2011.

Minister of Tourism Stas Misezhnikov stated “The Tourism Ministry’s efforts to improve the tourism product and its diverse marketing activities worldwide continue to bear fruit as the numbers speak for themselves”.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)