Berlin Tourism’s - or, to use its German name, Berlin Tourismus Marketing’s (BTM’s) - new CEO, Burkhard Kieker, is certain that in the current economic recession, Berlin will do better than other large cities. “Berlin is an increasingly popular destination and has nothing to be shy off compared with other large European metropolis. We have probably the best offer in terms of culture, nightlife and the art scene – and all of this at extremely affordable prices,” he explains.

Berlin continues to enjoy higher tourist arrivals. Last year, total arrivals in the city reached an all-time high of 7.9 million, up by 4.2%, generating 17.8 million overnights (+2.8%). International arrivals rose by 7.8% to reach 2.75 million. According to Kieker, January continued to rise, by over 4% in total arrivals and over 7% for overnights. “And February was also a good month, according to hoteliers,” Kieker added. In 2008, Japan and the UK were the only large markets to record a drop – of 4.3% and 3.5% respectively. Double-digit growth was recorded for most Central/East European countries, Scandinavia, France, Canada, Brazil, India and the Middle East. For 2009, BTM remains optimistic, hoping to receive at least the same number of visitors as in 2008. “It is difficult to give an exact forecast,” he said, “but we will definitely do better than many other European capitals.”

Marketing campaigns will this year be more focused on ‘value for money” than image. Campaigns will be conducted in many neighbouring and domestic markets, as well as in the USA, China and India. “We are also launching a new website product, the ‘Berlin Calculator’, which help people calculate how much they are likely to spend based on their own wishes and choices,’ says Kieker. More money has been made available for promotion from the City Government. This will be used in particular to promote the meetings business.

A number of large events should help raise interest worldwide for the German capital, as well as boosting arrivals and roomnights. The World Athletics Championship (IAAF) from 15-23 August and the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall are the two most powerful events for 2009. To commemorate the fall of the Wall and the peaceful revolution which brought an end to the German Democratic Republic, the city has set up special tours, such as a walking trail of the wall, and will host many exhibitions in various museums.