Double-digit increase in visitor arrivals cap off Tourism Month

“The month of May was historic with the celebration of culture, art and unity with our brothers and sisters of the Pacific. A series of successful events, from the PATA Annual Summit and the 12th Festival of Pacific Arts to the Guam Live International Music Festival certainly showcased the beauty and uniqueness of our island home to all of our guests. Congratulations to GVB and their tourism partners on a job well done! Also thank you to everyone, from our organizers, artists, sponsors, tourism industry participants and supporters of FestPac, for making Tourism Month extra special.”

    — Governor Eddie Baza Calvo

 

Third best May in history of tourism recorded

Guam welcomed 114,930 visitors in May 2016, achieving the first double-digit growth in arrivals this year. The 18.6% increase over the previous year tallied up to be the third best May in Guam’s tourism history. May 1997 still holds the record with 120,046 visitors.

Significant events also helped attract more visitors to Guam during Tourism Month. Daily increases were noted in the days leading up to the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Annual Summit, Festival of Pacific Arts and Guam Live International Music Festival. GVB’s Research Department calculated a 20% spike when compared to the same time period in 2015.

Additionally, the continuation of increased arrivals in the Korea market saw a 45% boost over the previous year. Visitor arrivals from the Philippines also surged by 102.7%, followed by arrivals from the People's Republic of China with an 85% increase.

“We couldn’t be more proud of the milestones that were made during Tourism Month,” said GVB President and CEO Nathan Denight. “This is a direct result of the work to diversify and grow our visitor source markets and bring new events to the table for visitors and local residents to enjoy.”

Lt. Governor Ray Tenorio added, "We thank the entire island community for stepping up and sharing our island hospitality and Håfa Adai spirit with our visitors and each other. It’s because of you that tourism works for everyone that calls Guam home.”

Summary of arrivals

Guam welcomed 114,930 visitors in May 2016, an 18.6% increase when compared to the previous year. Total Fiscal Year-to-Date arrivals achieved a 10.2% boost, while total Calendar Year-to-Date arrivals have risen 9.7%.

Japan arrivals declined slightly 0.8%, while Korea arrivals increased by 45%. Work continues to support the growth of the Japan market with travel agents and industry partners. The launch of the new Guam Summer Beach Fest in July and August is anticipated to aid in attracting more Japanese visitors to Guam.

Other markets also demonstrated growth and diversification. Increased arrivals included the U.S. mainland by 26.8%, Hawaii by 22.3%, Europe by 103.5%, Palau by 188.3%, RMI by 245.9%, Australia by 22.9% and Taiwan by 5.2%.

Media Contact: JOSH TYQUIENGCO - Public Information Officer