The Latin America travel and tourism industry is expected to see growth due to the increasing internet penetration in the region, improving economic status of the countries and as a result more availability and ability to travel across and within the country.
In Latin America tourism has become one of the most important contributors to economic development, job creation and even environmental protection. Numbers given by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), show that the subcontinent stands as the fourth most important touristic region in the world. Tourism provides 15,778,000 jobs (7.6% of total employment) and contributes 348.7 billion dollars to respective GDPs. International tourist arrivals increased by 7%, according to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
Latin America stands out as a travel destination. Countries like Mexico, Peru, Colombia, Chile and Argentina have made new investments, and new international travel players, such as Norwegian Airlines, are emerging in the region.
The region has all the elements needed to be successful in the tourism sector. Nevertheless, its market share of world tourism arrivals is way under its potential.
We are convinced than a better and more coordinated international promotion by the public administrations and the local tourist industries, would have a short-term effect in the number of tourists’ arrivals and receipts.