The Regional Secretary for Energy, Environment and Tourism stated in Berlin that the investment in the German market should be maintained and reinforced, seeing that it is one of the major markets. It represents 14.1% of overnight stays in the Azores in 2016 with an increase of 19.1% over the previous year.
Speaking at the International Tourism Fair, Marta Guerreiro stressed that Germany has already established itself, consistently and continuously, as one of the most important foreign tourism markets to the Azores.
"The Azores are positioned as a nature destination with a strong focus on active tourism and a variety of experiences that make the Region a sought-after destination at international level," said the government official.
According to Marta Guerreiro, the Germans seek the Azores for the diversity of tourism products on land and at sea, such as trails, diving and whale watching.
"Besides our specific features, the growth of this market is due to several factors, including the importance of promoting the destination with local tour operators and effectiveness of accessibility," said the Regional Secretary.
In 2017, there will be five direct flights from Germany to the Azores on a weekly basis. In this regard, Marta Guerreiro conveyed her belief that this country "will continue to play a very important role in the development of tourism in the Region."
The Regional Secretary highlighted the "fundamental" presence of the Azores at the International Tourism Fair in Berlin, Europe's largest tourism fair, noting that is an "excellent" opportunity to meet partners and generate business for the participating exhibitors.
Marta Guerreiro stressed that this event is a "great opportunity" for visitors to discover the Azores, collecting tourist information about the Region as a potential holiday destination.