Visitors to Monaco are being surveyed this year.

The DNA of the Monte Carlo Casino won't change.

Data have been published by the Monaco Tourist and Convention Authority.

The Monaco Grand Prix is still several weeks away, but preparation for the event has already started.

After a disappointing start to the year (see our story), Monaco's tourist industry is cautiously optimistic for summer.

The Principality is still an attractive tourist destination and the average stay this year has increased from 5 to 7 days. However many visitors are booking online at the last minute, making it difficult for hoteliers to plan ahead. SBM hotels anticipate a decline in sales compared to last year but an increase of 5% is expected for entertainment due to this year's dinner shows in the Salle des Etoiles.

Good news for Monaco's tourist industry.

The Easter break has brought some optimism for companies and workers in the Principality's tourist industry. Over the holiday weekend, there was an 8% increase in hotel room occupation compared to last year. Most tourists were Italian and French, but the British are still visiting in spite of the weak pound and general economic pessimism in the UK.

During a press conference in Berlin yesterday, a spokesman for Monaco’s tourism board revealed new plans for dealing with the global economic crisis.

According to a report on the Express Travelworld website, representatives from Monaco Government Tourist Office and Convention Authority and the Societe des Bains de Mer have visited India to promote the Principality as a luxury destination, especially for what's called MICE tourism (meetings, incentives, conferences and events).