TOURISM UP IN ARMENIA AFTER GOVERNMENT AD CAMPAIGN

The Messenger, Georgia
Aug 14 2007

Tourism in Armenia has been on the increase in the past few years,
the news agency Regnum reports.

The Armenian Ministry of Trade and Economic Development claims
to expect a total of 450 000 tourists in 2007 which would be a 20
percent increase on the 2006 figure. Around 181 000 tourists have
visited Armenia so far this year.

The Armenian government has made efforts to vigorously promote
the tourism sector since the late 1990s when it was declared a top
government priority. State-funded television commercials were broadcast
on the CNN and EuroNews networks throughout 2006.

Last years’ total revenues for the tourism industry are put at USD 300
million. Most visitors are thought to be of the Armenian Diaspora,
with other tourists mainly hailing from Russia, Georgia, Iran, US,
France and Germany.

Yerevan has particularly promoted Lake Sevan and the central Armenian
town of Tsaghkadzor, known for its ski resorts.