site.btaTourism Growth in Bulgaria Exceeds 25% in Two Years, Minister Angelkova Tells WTTC

Sofia/Buenos Aires, April 21 (BTA) - Bulgaria's tourism sector has reported a growth of over 25 per cent in the last two years, said Tourism Minister Nikolina Angelkova at the World Travel and Tourism Council, held in the Argentinean capital, quoted by her Ministry late on Friday.

Of the 8.9 million visits by foreign tourists in 2017, 5.3 million were to the Black Sea resorts, she said, adding that Bulgaria will be divided into nine designated tourism regions, while the Black Sea coast will be split along a South-North axis. The tourism regions will be developed by all local structures, including municipalities, businesses and organizations, she explained. "We are offering quality - not just a tourist package, but an overall experience, accompanied by warmth and the locals' hospitality," she said.

Angelkova said her Ministry's focus is on Bulgaria's cultural and historical heritage, as this country ranks third in Europe in terms of discovered archaeological artefacts. Eight tourist routes have been developed, which cover more than 150 sites. Cultural and historical tourism destinations can be accessed from the Tourism Ministry's website. Their creation and promotion played an important role in developing local tourist sites, some of which have seen over 90 per cent more visitors, she explained.