TBM Staff - Mumbai In a remarkable achievement, Portugal marked a historic high in November with a record-breaking influx of foreign tourists, reaching 1.1 million visitors, as reported by the National Statistics Institute (INE) on Monday.
foreignLeading the surge were almost 140,000 visitors from the United States, solidifying their position as the largest group of foreign tourists for the month. The INE’s monthly report revealed that Spaniards and Britons secured the second and third spots with 131,000 and 124,000 travellers, respectively.
The rise in U.S. tourist numbers reflects a notable trend, driven by the appeal of Portugal as an affordable, sunny, and secure destination. Over recent years, the country has become an increasingly popular choice for American travelers seeking diverse experiences.
Tourism stands as a key driver of Portugal’s economy, contributing nearly 15% to the gross domestic product (GDP) before the disruptions caused by the global pandemic.
For the first 11 months of 2023, foreign tourist arrivals witnessed a substantial 20% increase compared to the previous year, totaling 17.4 million visitors. This figure has already surpassed the previous annual record of 16.4 million in 2019, highlighting the industry’s resilience in the face of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a separate report, the INE disclosed that passenger numbers at Portuguese airports in November saw an 8.5% rise compared to the previous year and a significant 12% surge compared to November 2019. These statistics underscore Portugal’s robust recovery in the travel sector, affirming its status as a sought-after destination for global travelers.
