(Ynet News) Ziv Reinstein - The Tourism Ministry announced on Monday that since January, 3.45 million tourists visited Israel. Surveys carried out by the ministry among visiting tourists included a poll rating visitor satisfaction from one to five. Among the services receiving the highest marks were archeological sites (4.6), tour guides (4.4), airports and even security checks (4.3). Tourism Minister Stas Misezhnikov envisions that in 2011 the ministry will set aside resources for marketing Israel in Christian communities in India (close to 150 million), Poland and South Korea. 66% of tourists stated that the purpose of their trip was a pilgrimage, recreational or an excursion. "They come because of religion but stay because of other reasons: Bird watching, wine, bike tours and other attractions," the minister said. In 2010, 19% of the tourists came from the U.S., 15% from Russia, and 9% from France, while Britain and Germany each sent 5% of the total. 69% of the tourists are Christians, while 23% are Jews. Over 50% were visiting Israel for the first time.
2010-12-31 08:35:09Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive