Germany showcases milestones, record 2014

They must be putting something in the currywurst. The German National Tourist Office (GNTO) saw 75.5 million overnight stays from foreign visitors in 2014, increasing its 2013 numbers by three million, and breaking its own annual record for the fifth time in a row. The statistic is supported by an upswing in Canadian visits to the country, which saw an increase of 5.5 per cent from 2013.

The news was at the forefront of a recent event celebrating Germany’s 25 years as a reunified nation, a milestone that was prefaced in 2014 by the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. The GNTO also revealed its 2015 campaign theme, “Traditions and Customs,” attributing its rich culture of artistic craftsmanship, culinary distinctiveness and festivals to its position as one of the world’s top travel destinations.

The campaign will endorse Germany’s goal to embed authentic, ancient heritage into a contemporary society, as well as draw attention to the country’s rural areas with their regional artisans, carnivals and cuisine, further developing its position as a sustainable travel destination.

The theme of traditions and culture is the direct result of tourism surveys conducted by the GNTO, most recent of which reported 76 per cent of visitors to Germany defining restaurant and café experiences as classic holiday activities, and 25 per cent of visitors basing their decision to travel to Germany on its offering of festivals and events.

The reunification anniversary, coupled with the new campaign theme, is meant to promote Germany with an image of unity to the travel industry.

For more information on travel to Germany, visit www.germany.travel/en