04 July 2007 Hit movies 'boost tourism'
Every time a successful film is launched that prominently features a potential holiday destination, it is claimed that the country in question sees a boost in tourist numbers.
The Association of British Travel Agents (Abta) reports that New Zealand saw an increase in the number of visitors following the release of Peter Jackson's hit adaptation of JRR Tolkein's Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Sean Tipton, a spokesperson for Abta, said: "Every time we have a big blockbuster, or a very successful movie, there is always a rather large boost to the countries concerned.
"In the tourist industry, it always happens."
He added that while standard travellers may not be able to afford holidays identical to those touted by wealthy celebrities, some may well opt for budget accommodation at a nearby site in the same country.
In October 2006, the Royal Bank of Scotland reported that the value of the pound had increased by 11 per cent over the previous year, which could be of benefit to "savvy" travellers looking to get the most for their money on their holidays.
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