Andalucía Takes the "Suite" Spot: Surpassing Catalonia in Hotel Overnight Stays

Andalucía Leaves Catalonia in the Dust: Hotel Overnight Stays Reach New Heights

In a dazzling display of tourist triumph, Andalucía has surged ahead of Catalonia in the race for the most hotel overnight stays this year, solidifying its position as the second most popular region in the country for eager travellers seeking a memorable stay.

According to the regional Ministry of Tourism, Andalucía's hotels have proudly recorded a whopping 12.8 million overnight stays between January and April, a figure that falls just shy of the Canary Islands' remarkable 22 million. Catalonia, with its vibrant allure, trailed closely behind with 12.7 million overnight stays, while the Madrid region managed a respectable 7.7 million.

It's clear that Andalucía has emerged from the shadows of the pandemic with renewed vigour, showcasing even stronger signs of recovery than the glorious days of 2019. The tourism industry in the region has bounced back with a delightful bounce in its step, welcoming visitors with open arms and charming them with its irresistible allure.

With an impressive growth rate of 18.2% compared to the same period in 2022, Andalucía's 12.8 million overnight stays have propelled it towards the record-breaking heights of the first four months of 2019. In fact, it stands a mere 0.5% below the number of travellers who graced the region during that unforgettable year. Jaén, Seville, Cadiz, and Malaga have taken the lead, basking in the glory of increased overnight stays, showcasing their unwavering appeal to intrepid adventurers.

The regional Ministry of Tourism couldn't contain their excitement, stating, "In relation to 2022, all the provinces experienced overnight stay growth of more than two digits, with Almeria soaring by 18.5%, Cadiz sparkling with a 20.4% increase, Cordoba charming visitors with an 11.9% rise, Granada captivating with an 11% surge, Huelva shining bright with a 19.1% boost, Jaen enchanting with a 10.7% rise, Malaga dazzling with a 17.8% jump, and Seville stealing the show with an astonishing 25.7% leap."

But it's not just the number of overnight stays that has witnessed a joyous ascent. Employment in Andalucía's hotel sector has experienced a remarkable year-on-year increase of 15.1% during the January-April period, reaching pre-pandemic levels and providing a glimmer of hope for job seekers. An average of 28,929 individuals have found solace in the warm embrace of hotel employment. Furthermore, the profitability of hotels has flourished, dancing to a delightful tune of a 21.5% rise compared to 2022.

Based on the impressive results of these first four months, the Ministry of Tourism forecasts an even brighter future for Andalucía. It predicts that from January to July, the region's hotels will proudly boast a staggering 30.3 million overnight stays, a 9% increase compared to last year. As the summer months beckon, the forecast paints a vivid picture of 5.06 million stays in May, 5.64 million in June, and a magnificent 6.75 million in July.

So, prepare your suitcases, fellow travellers, for Andalucía awaits with open arms, promising a tapestry of unforgettable experiences and a warm embrace that will leave you longing for more.