London overseas visitors predicted to hit 15.9 million – 23 April 2007

Overseas visitor numbers to London in 2007 are predicted to hit 15.9 million following a record 2006.

The International Passenger Survey revealed overseas visitors to London reached 15.2 million – a year-on-year increase of 9.4% from 2005’s 13.9 million visitors. The record figures means London increased its share of international tourism from 1.7% to 1.8%.

Visit London chief executive James Bidwell said London has retained its position as the world’s leading tourism city. He added tourism is worth around £15 billion a year to the London economy.

The International Passenger Survey predicts London will increase its number of overseas visitors by 4.5% to 15.9 million in 2007.