Europe Forecasts Record American Travelers in 2006

The European Travel Commission (ETC) is forecasting Europe will receive more American travelers this year than the record 13.12 million set in 2000.

"This is a fantastic opertunity for Home Based Travel agents" said Paul Davis CEO of www.homebasedtravelagents.org

In an upward trajectory since 2003, U.S. arrivals in Europe climbed past 12 million, to 12.6 million in 2005 -- four percentage points from 2000, surpassing the ETC's projected 12.4 million.

"It's wonderful to see rising numbers for a third straight year," said Conrad Van Tiggelen, ETC chairman. "While Europe is America's favorite overseas destination with more than 40% of overseas travelers, we are always communicating new reasons to visit." The commission said

"Europe hopping" is the latest trend with travelers -- mixing countries in unusual ways mainly due to low-cost carriers. The film industry also has helped with movies such as The Da Vinci Code sparking more travel.

France, Britain and Scotland have teamed up with Eurostar, the high-speed train connecting Paris and London, to offer Da Vinci Code travels and an online promotion ( www.jointhequest.com) with prizes including free lifetime travel on Eurostar and accommodations for five years at the Ritz Hotel in Paris and Claridge's in London.

American cruise passenger totals grew by 9 percent last year to 9.76 million, (out of 11.18 million worldwide). Northern Europe and the Mediterranean were among the top destinations, and this year the Med is hotter yet. Major cruise lines and ports are ratcheting up projects to meet demand.

Retiring Baby Boomers herald a coming wave of mature travelers. With more leisure time, they are catching on to the European pastime of renting a countryside villa for a month.

While Provence, Tuscany and Greece remain popular, lesser-known regions also make great home bases for day trips. Slovakia, for example, is positioned for exploring the Adriatic, Budapest, Vienna and Krakow. For more information, visit www.visiteurope.com.