August 2015 now third best month in tourism history

NOTE: The following is a joint release from Governor Eddie Baza Calvo and the Guam Visitors Bureau.

“Sustaining and growing Guam’s primary industry is no easy task. The Guam Visitors Bureau and its industry partners continue to push aggressively to further diversify tourism. Their efforts are helping progress our economy and enhance the quality of life for all of our residents and the experience of our visitors.”              

– Governor Eddie Baza Calvo

Korea arrivals rank first in tourism history

The Guam Visitors Bureau Research Department confirmed about 135,498 visitors were recorded in August 2015, making it the third top month in the history of tourism. Additionally, August 2015 knocked down January 2015 to become the top month for Korea arrivals, totaling 42,733 visitors.

We need to continue supporting GVB’s goals in accomplishing the objectives of the Tourism 2020 plan because their hard work brings proven results that benefit everyone who calls our island paradise, ‘home,’” Lt. Governor Ray Tenorio said.

Increased seat capacity from Incheon and additional direct flights through Busan have attributed to the monumental growth. More direct flights through Air Busan, as well as T’Way Air’s upcoming service to Guam in October will also help to support increased arrivals numbers.

“Achieving another milestone in visitor arrivals is exciting for our island,” said GVB General Manager Nathan Denight. “We remain focused on the Tourism 2020 plan because it is our road map to transform our island into the world class destination of choice and share what can be found only on Guam with the rest of the world. GVB continues to invest heavily into the community, bettering the places enjoyed by our residents and visitors alike. Improving our tourism product results in better economic benefits for our people, making Guam the best place to live, work and visit.”

China shows strong growth

Direct charter flights from Tianjin helped to boost arrivals from China, with about 3,302 visitors that came to Guam in August.

Typhoon Soudelor affects Japan arrivals

Guam received 15.9% less visitors from Japan last month. It’s estimated that nearly 1,100 Japanese travelers bound for Guam cancelled their trip as a result of Typhoon Soudelor. Meanwhile, total outbound from Japan is still down due to a weakening yen and Japanese travelers choosing domestic travel. GVB continues to work with travel agents, implementing marketing strategies that support growth in the Japan market.

Summary of arrivals

Guam welcomed 135,498 visitors in August 2015, which is a 1.7% increase when compared to the previous year. Total Fiscal Year-to-Date arrivals are also up 1.9% and Calendar Year-to-Date arrivals have increased by 2.3%.

Japan arrivals may have been down, but Korea arrivals showed an increase of 56.8%. The People's Republic of China also grew dramatically by 177.7%. Meanwhile, visitor markets continue to grow and diversify.  The U.S. mainland increased by 8.6% and the FSM increased by 13.9%. Additional markets that also grew include Philippines by 15.5%, Canada by 39.2% and the Hong Kong by 35.5%.

Guam Top 15 Banner Arrivals

Rank Month/Year      Guam Arrivals

1. Mar 2013                136,728

2. Aug 1995                135,710

3. Aug 2015                135,498

4. Aug 2013                134,355

5. Aug 2014                133,237

6. Mar 2015                132,334

7. Aug 2001                132,249

8. Aug 2012                131,988

9. Mar 2014                131,255

10. Jul 1997                130,929

11. Aug 1997              129,270

12. Aug 2007              128,923

13. Aug 2000              127,555

14. Jul 1995                127,082

15. Mar 2012              126,376

Source: Guam Customs Declaration Forms. Processed by the Guam Visitors Bureau.

Media Contact: JOSH TYQUIENGCO - Public Information Officer