Balkans Set to Experience Tourism Boost in 2007

Bulgaria is bracing itself for a 10% rise in foreign tourists during 2007 as a total of 5.6 million are expected to visit. Joining the EU increases the visibility of a country as a tourist destination. In fact, even while Romania prepared for EU entry in December, the positive effects were apparent as tourism was up 20% whilst Bulgaria boosted tourism in 2006, earning the record breaking amount of nearly €1billion.

This has even prompted directline-holidays.co.uk to hire travel consultants with unique knowledge of Eastern Europe in order to deal with specific Balkans holiday enquiries. The increase, according to directline-holidays Sales Manager Alex Pilkington, points to a bright future for tourism in the Balkans. “Eastern Europe tourism in general, particularly in the Balkans, has been gaining popularity – and represents great value-for-money when compared to its western European counterparts”.

Tourists are realising Balkans holidays offer the best of both worlds from sunny beaches to world class ski resorts and are among the countries offering the lowest prices for package tours. With an increasing number of Britons choosing activity holidays and most of them turning to the mountain slopes, a boom in Bulgaria skiing holidays has followed, with directline-skiing Product Manager Natasha Akram reporting the reasons for this boost. “Bulgaria offers the most affordable winter sports holidays available in mainland Europe today, with Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo the most popular resorts.”

Balkans favourite Croatia has grown to become a destination to rival traditional Western European destinations thanks to superb resorts, a wonderful coastline and an exceptionally sunny climate. Croatia holiday destinations such as Brac, Dubrovnik and Makarska are currently very popular, much due to the variety and affordability.

Budget airlines have also attracted tourism to Eastern Europe with no-frills air carriers increasing the number of flights they offer, whilst competition is expected to bring prices down further. One of the reasons for more flight options is that after EU entry, aviation companies no longer need government permission to secure landing rights.

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