November marks another 'best' in island’s tourism history

A joint release from the Governor’s Office and the Guam Visitors Bureau 

“This is another milestone for the island’s tourism industry and marks a trend in increasing tourism numbers. I couldn’t be more proud of everyone at GVB and their partners in the industry who are ensuring Guam’s reputation as a paradise vacation spot is spreading far and wide. I am looking forward to seeing the numbers for December as well as for the entire year.”  

- Governor Eddie Baza Calvo

 

Last month best November in history; GVB events boost arrivals

More than 121,000 visitors were welcomed to Guam’s shores in November, making it the best November in the island’s tourism history.

“I am thankful we have another milestone to celebrate in this holiday season and I look forward to seeing the goals of the Tourism 2020 strategic plan achieved,” said Governor Eddie Baza Calvo.

November 2015 joins the ranks of “best” with other months this year:

•        November 2015: 121,736 visitors
•        October 2015: 112,292 visitors
•        September 2015: 120,922 visitors
•        August 2015: 135,498 visitors    
•        February 2015: 126,080 visitors

Guam Visitors Bureau signatures events, including the 10th Guam Ko’ko’ Half Marathon & Ekiden Relay and 9th Guam Ko’ko’ Kids Fun Run, contributed to the increase in November.

GVB’s Shop Guam Festival, which started Nov. 1 and continues through Feb. 15, 2016, also proved attractive to visitors, helping to boost the growth in arrivals. GVB sponsored events, such as the Tour of Guam, Matao vs. Iran game and Japan Autumn Festival, also were factors.

"These numbers are a result of the work of many people and reflect the diversity and growth in our visitor industry," said Lt. Governor Ray Tenorio. "I want to thank everyone for their hard work in promoting Guam."

Best month for Korea arrivals recorded

In addition, November 2015 broke the record set in August 2015 for the best month documented for Korea arrivals, with a total of 43,030 visitors. The momentum set from increased seat capacity from Incheon and more direct flights through Air Busan and T’Way Air has been a part of the success in boosting arrivals from Guam’s second top market.

“It’s great to see hard work paying off, especially as we prepare to host the PATA Annual Summit and Festival of Pacific Arts in May 2016,” said GVB General Manager Nathan Denight.

“While much still needs to be done, the milestones we have achieved are a testament to everyone working together to bring out the best aspects of our island paradise. As we close out 2015, I just want to sincerely thank Governor Calvo, Lt. Governor Tenorio, the Guam Legislature, our business community, the GVB board and staff, and our island residents and visitors. We have much to celebrate, but we remain committed to making our island home the best place to live, work and visit.”

Signs of stabilization continue to be noted for Guam’s top market of Japan. The island may have received 3.4% less visitors from Japan in November, but total outbound from Japan continues to be on the decline due to a weakening yen and Japanese travelers choosing domestic travel. GVB’s is still working with travel agents and marketing campaigns, such as the “Toshi-chan” campaign in Japan, to bring more Japanese travelers to the island.

Summary of arrivals

Guam welcomed 121,736 visitors in November 2015, a 14.7% increase when compared to the previous year. Total Calendar Year-to-Date arrivals have also increased by 4.4%.

Korea arrivals shined with a record 65.9% increase, while visitor numbers from Japan saw a slight decline. The People's Republic of China also grew by 12.9%. Taiwan additionally saw growth by 17.4% due to a new convenient flight schedule provided by China Airlines. Other visitor markets also demonstrated diversification and growth. Hong Kong arrivals increased by 15.1%, including Thailand by 90.5%, Vietnam by 20% and the CNMI by 11.4%.

Media Contact: JOSH TYQUIENGCO - Public Information Officer