The latest provisional figures from the Fiji Bureau of Statistics reveal that Fiji welcomed 70,794 visitors in January 2024. This marks a record for visitor arrivals in January, representing a modest increase of 0.7 percent compared to the same month in 2023 when 70,324 visitors were recorded. Despite this achievement, there was a notable decline of 15.6 percent in visitor numbers compared to December 2023, which saw a total of 83,840 arrivals.
Of the total visitors in January, 69,653 arrived by air and 1,141 by sea, predominantly composed of seamen on fishing vessels, with only four arriving by yacht. A significant majority, 78.9 percent, visited Fiji for vacation purposes. Other reasons for travel included visiting friends or relatives (7.2 percent), business (1.4 percent), and various other motivations (12.5 percent).
Demographically, the majority (around 25-64 years) constituted the working-age population, while children aged 14 and under comprised 18.4 percent of total arrivals. Additionally, youths aged 15-24 represented 12.5 percent, and seniors aged 65 and older accounted for the remaining 9.5 percent of visitors.
This steady growth in tourism since the pandemic indicates a positive trajectory for Fiji’s travel industry. Fijian authorities remain optimistic about sustaining this bounce back in tourism as they continue to attract diverse demographics visiting for various reasons.
In summary, while January figures reflect a mixed performance of growth year-on-year but decline month-on-month, they highlight the resilience and adaptability of Fiji’s tourism sector, which continues to draw a wide range of visitors from across the globe. The increase in holidaymakers underscores the enduring appeal of Fiji as a preferred destination for relaxation and adventure.
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