Good start to 2010, but 2011 will be better.

Head of Monaco's tourist authority has spoken to local newspaper Nice Matin about the first 6 months of 2010. Statistics for overnight stays in the Principality are 11% higher than the same period last year, although reservations are still being placed only at the last minute. Business tourism, which suffered a 30% drop in the first half of 2009, has also bounced back, showing a 35% increase.

Bouquier mentioned that Tripadvisor named Monaco the best destination in the world in March. He also reported that hotels have already registered 18% higher stays during June, and started July 10% higher than the same period in 2009.

After the first 3 months of cruise ship operations, Monaco has registered a 26.5% increase in number of maritime tourists, 37,558 so far this year, compared with 29,680 in 2009. Around 315,000 cruise ship passengers are expected in total.

Bouquier also talked about the success of Monaco Private Label, the club for ultra rich tourists, which so far has 260 members. The scheme was launched this year, and the tourist authority hopes to increase membership to 500 by the end of December. Bouquier is on his way to the USA this week to woo ultra rich Americans.

Other plans currently being implemented are:

• survey feedback from 5000 tourists by December
• imminent arrival of 5 star hotel category
• Green tourism label scheme

Next year expect to see:

• new packages for the F1 Grand Prix
• extra special summer wedding event

Sunshine and success forecast for Monegasque tourism