Liverpool’s visitor economy has received a further boost as a major US tour operator announced that it’s looking to bring even more tours into the city.
Having been welcomed to the city by Marketing Liverpool, a senior executive from CIE Tours International praised the city region, describing Liverpool as a ‘gem’ and noting customers’ ‘high reviews’. The visiting representatives had a full tour of the city, taking in the Albert Dock, Liverpool Cathedral and some of the famous nightlife.
While enjoying the whole offer, the delegation was particularly impressed by The Beatles attractions. Next year marks the 50th anniversary of the ‘British Invasion’, when Beatlemania swept America, and it is anticipated that this landmark will result in a spike in the number of American visitors to Liverpool.
The US-based operator currently brings three tours a week into the city, which is an increasingly popular destination with the 80,000 tourists who use their services annually. Complete with overnight stays, food and drink, these tours make a significant contribution to the ever-growing visitor economy. From 2014 there will be the addition of a fourth tour coming to the city, named The Celtic Sampler.
John Vavrina, Vice President of CIE Tours International, said: “Liverpool is a gem with much to offer. Our customers have been returning from our tours raving about The Beatles Story, where they experience the music of the Fab Four.
“We have increased our number of visits to Liverpool due to high reviews and interest from our passengers and after visiting Liverpool myself, I understand why the city is such a highlight.”
Chris Brown, director of Marketing Liverpool, said: “This visit was a great opportunity to showcase Liverpool’s tourism offer to some of CIE Tours International’s key sales team and also to discuss how they can offer more to their passengers in the future.
“Liverpool has proved to be so popular for CIE Tours International customers, because of the enduring appeal of the Beatles and the magnificent range and quality of the city’s attractions, that it has increased the number of visits from next year which is a superb affirmation of our offer and those who work in the visitor economy in Liverpool and the city region.”