Indication from more record-high figures for the month of November 2004 show that the country has been welcoming an increasing number of visitors  through the border points, cruise ship port, and the international airport.

The most recent report for total tourist arrivals (exclusive of cruise passengers), which includes arrivals via land, air, and sea, show that January to November, 2004 recorded an increase of 4.6% over the same period in 2003. Belize was host to a total of 208,641 overnight visitors for the period January ­ November this year, surpassing the 199,545 recorded in 2003. A noteworthy interest contributing to the increase in November arrivals was an upsurge of Canadian visitors by 23.0% and American visitors by 7.3%.

The Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) recorded a 6.5% increase for the period January through November, 2004. For November, there was an increase of 7.2% compared to November, 2003. The arrival figure for November 2004 was 11,615, surpassing the 10,838 recorded in November 2003.

The cruise sector continues to show growth as 357 ships called to Belize`s port during the period January ­ November, 2004, accounting for 747,746 passengers. This represents an increase of 55.1% over the same period in 2003 when there were 482,023 cruise passengers recorded.

"This year has been rather encouraging in terms of arrivals, especially with regard to the blossoming cruise ship sector of the industry. And yet while both private enterprises and other governmental bodies have worked so fervently this year for these increases, we anticipate even greater efforts in 2005," comments Director of Product Development, Anthony Mahler.

Some of these efforts will manifest themselves in the form of many renowned trade/consumer shows attracting thousands of visitors from the world over, as well as hosting of various press groups inclusive of international media representatives, among other initiatives. To commence the year, the Belize Tourism Board, in partnership with various private sector partners, will be attending the Adventures in Travel Expo in New York from January 12th through January 14th. Belize will be among some 500 other exhibiting destinations from around the globe.