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Foodie tourism is on the rise worldwide. Spain’s distinct culture and strong country branding puts it at the top of many hungry tourists’ lists, creating a resilient sector within the country’s troubled tourism industry.
Turespaña…estimates that 5.6 million tourists were wooed to Spain last year to taste any of the local specialities. This data, corresponding to 2012, meant that gastro-visitors grew by 4.25 compared to a year earlier.
These are clear indications that, as it was suspected, gastronomy is taking center stage when it comes to attracting foreign holidaymakers to the southern European country.
Foreign tourists wooed by the local cuisine spent 6,393 million euros last year. In this field, the country`s gastronomy also fares well. …the accomodation industry was also benefited. …gastro-tourism in Spain meant 59.3 million stays in the nation’s hotels last year.
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Tags: food and drink, restaurants, spain
Photo credit: Waitresses fill their trays at a tapas bar in Madrid. Elena Merlika / Flickr