The tourism industry worldwide has witnessed a strong recovery since its downfall due to recession
in 2008-09. The recovery was primarily boosted by improved economic conditions worldwide.
According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), following the recovery in 2010, international
tourism grew by about 5% in the first half of 2011. Between January and June of 2011, the total
number of arrivals reached 440 million, 19 million more than in the same period of 2010. Tourism
in advanced economies increased by 4.3%, reducing the gap with emerging economies (4.8%),
which have been driving international tourism growth in recent years. Europe witnessed a 6% increase
in tourist arrivals. International tourist arrivals into Northern Europe increased by 7%, and Central
and Eastern Europe by 9%, and travel to destinations in Southern and Mediterranean Europe
increased by 7%.