The British market continues to be the biggest source of visitors to Tenerife, accounting for 31.8% of the total with 1,580,907 British holidaymakers visiting the island in 2013, an increase of 0.8% compared to 2012, according to the latest figures from the Tenerife Tourism Corporation.

Whilst staying loyal to Tenerife, there is a changing pattern amongst British visitors in terms of their preferred accommodation, with more now opting to stay in 4 and 5 star hotels (44.9% of the total).  The number of British visitors staying in the cities of Santa Cruz and La Laguna also increased considerably in 2013 (around 30% up), although the beach resorts in the south of the island continue to be the favourite destination for British holidaymakers.

Pia Louw, Travel Industry and Promotion Director at the Tenerife Tourism Corporation, welcomed the latest figures: “The UK is our most loyal market with a repeat visitor rate of 77%.  We believe that the reasons for this fidelity, apart from our weather of course, include the huge variety they can find on the island – from UNESCO Heritage sites and hilltop villages to stunning volcanic landscapes and forests – and the continuous development of new tourism products and activities, such as stargazing.  They will always find a new, exciting holiday experience in Tenerife!”

Tourism is a key contributor to Tenerife’s economy.  In 2013, the island received nearly five million tourists globally, who generated 3,722 million euros (around £3,046 million) in tourism revenue, 5% more than in 2012.  Tourism also generated more than 80,000 jobs on the island last year.

Tenerife’s beaches and year round spring-like climate are without doubt the main attractions for tourists, but the latest figures for 2013 also show an increase in the number of visitors who enjoyed activities such as whale watching, hiking, taking the cable car to the top of Mount Teide or a visit to one of the island’s theme parks.

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Notes for Editors:

1. The Tenerife Tourism Corporation is a membership led independent body, supported by the public and private sectors, which markets Tenerife overseas as a tourist destination. A portfolio of five specific brands has been created: Golf, Nature, Select, Convention Bureau and Film Commission.

2. For general tourism information on Tenerife please visit: www.webtenerife.co.uk.

3. For media enquiries, please contact Cristina Cunchillos or Richard Hume at Hume Whitehead: cristina@humewhitehead.co.uk / 0771 049 0570; richard@humewhitehead.co.uk / 0845 498 9981.