International tourist arrivals grew 6% in the first six months of 2018, according to the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).
The UNWTO reported all regions of the world “enjoyed robust growth” in arrivals to June following record annual growth of 7% in 2017.
Europe, Asia and the Pacific led the growth, each recording a 7% increase in arrivals.
The Southern Mediterranean and South-East Asia had the strongest results, both attracting 9% more international tourists than in the same period last year.
The Middle East saw arrivals grow at 5% and the Americas saw 3% growth, driven by 7% growth to South America.
Zurab Pololikashvili, UNWTO secretary general, hailed the figures “as further proof of the sector’s resilience and relentless growth trajectory”.
He said: “We continue to work with our many partners to translate this growth into better jobs, more benefits to societies and more opportunities for sustainable livelihoods and destinations.”
Among source markets, the UK, France, and Russia reported double-digit increases in outbound spending, along with India and the Republic of Korea.
However, China reported spending on a par with last year in the first six months.