Italy set to attract more visitors

Tuesday February 19th , 2008

Italy's investment potential is likely to be boosted by growth in its tourist trade, new research has found.

A poll by marketing company The Network found that the majority of independent travel agents in the UK were anticipating an increase in global tourism this year.

Despite the growing appeal of emerging markets and long-haul destination, established European countries were still found to be highly popular options.

For example, 15 per cent of independent travel agents said Italy would see a bigger increase in bookings than other short-haul destinations including Spain.

Meanwhile, a similar proportion predicted that Greece would outpace other countries in Europe.

Speaking to TravelMole about the findings, The Network's Paula Lacey, said: "The prospects for 2008 holiday bookings through the trade are hugely encouraging."

This comes after Italy was rated as one of the top five investment hotspots in the world by HolidayLettings.co.uk.