Figures just released by the Office for National Statistics, which measure arrivals into the UK's air and sea ports shows that 2001 was a record year for Bristol's international tourism business.
The International Passenger Survey for the year indicates that overseas visitors spent over 2.6 million nights in the city, a major increase on the figure of two million nights in 2000. The survey also showed that Bristol is now the 7th most visited destination in the UK by foreign tourists, its highest position in the rankings ever. Bristol Tourism and Conference Bureau Manager John Hallett said, "The figures are extremely good, and while the actual number of overseas residents visiting Bristol was actually slightly down last year, the average length of stay in the city by foreign tourists rose by three days." The survey will come as welcome news as Bristol begins the final round in its bid to become European Capital of Culture.