FYSA - GROW WITH GUAM: 2014 visitor arrivals at 1.3 million

2014 visitor arrivals at 1.3 million

NOTE: The following is a joint release from Governor Calvo and the Guam Visitors Bureau.

“This is the third consecutive year that visitor arrival records have been broken. It’s an indicator that we are making the right decision in growing and diversifying our tourism market in light of the changing global economy. As a piston of our island’s economic engine, growth in the tourism industry means more jobs and more opportunities for Guamanians.”

–          Governor Eddie Baza Calvo

2014 visitor arrivals beat 2013 numbers

For the third year in a row, tourism arrival numbers are breaking records. Calendar year-to-date arrivals for 2014 ended with 1,342,377, which is 7,880 more visitors than 2013’s banner arrivals of 1,334,497.

Korea arrivals for calendar year 2014 grew by 25.4%, while the People's Republic of China rose by 45%, and the Russia Federation arrivals increased by 101.5%. Additionally, sea arrivals for CY 2014 increased by 115.7%.  The diversification and growth in various markets helped strengthen the island’s visitor industry despite Japan’s struggling economy.

The preliminary Monthly Visitor Arrival Report for December 2014 shows a 1.0% increase when compared to December 2013, with Guam welcoming a total of 119,829 visitors.

"We're proud of the hard work that was accomplished in 2014, especially recording another banner year with over 1.3 million visitors. But we also need to be mindful and maintain a keen eye on diversification efforts because the Japan market is vulnerable,” said Lt. Gov. Ray Tenorio. “These milestones could not have been done without the support of our industry partners and our dedicated tourism employees. This is a great time to be a part of Guam's evolution.”

GVB General Manager Karl Pangelinan thanked island leaders and the community for their part in the growth.

“I want to personally thank Governor Calvo, Lt. Governor Tenorio, the Guam Legislature and the entire community for stepping up to make our island paradise a better place to live, work, and visit,” Pangelinan said. “Let's keep up the momentum to transform Guam into the destination of choice with more world class hotels, compelling signature events, and unique activities that center on the pulse of our Chamorro language and culture."

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*The preliminary December 2014 report and top 15 Calendar year-to-date chart are attached for your reference and use.

For More Information:

JOSH TYQUIENGCO

Public Information Officer

GUAM VISITORS BUREAU

Office: (671) 646-5278 I Mobile: (671) 686-4827

josh.tyquiengco@visitguam.org | http://www.visitguam.org

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