Romanian Tour Agency 2010 Sales Down 15% On Year - Assoc

The sales of Romanian tour agencies dropped by an average 15% in 2010, compared to 2009, and dozens were forced to close because of the economic crisis, said Corina Martin, head of the National Association of Tour Agencies (ANAT).

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She said, in 2010, many Romanians either chose cheaper tourism packages, with fewer days of accommodation, or stayed home during their vacation.

On the Black Sea Coast, which accounts for around 46% of Romania's lodging capacity, business dropped by 18% in 2010 from the previous year, when it had shrunk by 15% compared to 2008.

"While in previous years Romanians could afford to take two holidays, one in the summer, the other during the winter, in 2010 many gave up on a second vacation, and some could not afford even one," said Martin.

According to ANAT estimates, around 10% of the almost 850 of the association's members closed last year. Before the crisis, 10-15% agencies would close each year, but new ones would be set up.

Martin said ANAT has asked the Tourism Ministry for a EUR1 million investment to promote Romanian tourism, like Germany did when it advertised its internal destinations among its own citizens. The association's proposal is being debated by the ministry.

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