Positive results for Luxembourg tourism sector

Luxembourg's ECJ third tower

Luxembourg for Tourism has hailed its 2016 marketing strategy a success after recording increased visitor numbers at key sites and first-time tourists at campsites.

According to the Economy Ministry, campsites recorded that over a third of customers were first-time visitors to Luxembourg. Tourist attractions, including Vianden castle, the Casemates and MUDAM museum also recorded a signifant increase in visitor numbers.

At a press conference Secretary of State for the Economy Francine Closener said that the hotel sector performed well in the first half of the year, with the number of overnight stays rising 2.1 percent compared with the same period the year before.

Campsites, however, lost out, recording a 6.9 percent decline, mainly because of poor weather in June and a declining interest by motorhome users, who account for a quarter of campsite customers.

Overnight stays in the leisure tourism sector grew by 6.6 percent while Meetings Incentives Congress and Events (MICE) saw a decline.

A number of changes in the tourism sector will come into force shortly, among them the introduction of a standard classification for accommodation.

Hotels are to follow the international Hotelstars Union system while campsites will have their own classification.

The Regional Tourist Board (ORT) for the central and western regions of the country, created on May 2 2016, will be operational from 1 October.

Meanwhile, Luxembourg plans to continue its charm offensive, showcasing its strengths in congresss tourism at the “Meet Luxembourg 2016” convention from September 1 to 3.

The event is organised by Luxembourg for Tourism and MICE cluster and will welcome over 100 professional agencies.