Los Angeles sees spike in visitor numbers

The number of people visiting Los Angeles rose to record levels in 2011.

Some 26.9 million people took a trip to the city of angels last year and spent $15.2 billion (£9.7 billion) in the process.

This represents a 4.2 per cent increase on visitor numbers seen in 2010, while the money splashed out as risen by eight per cent year-on-year.

Foreign visitors played a key part in the numbers, with overseas holidaymakers rising by seven per cent to 5.9 million.

Mark Liberman, president and CEO of LA INC, The Los Angeles Convention and Visitors Bureau, said the numbers provided a much needed shot in the arm for LA’s economy as the tourist trade employs one in ten of the city’s inhabitants.

He added: “The increase was experienced in all areas of our city, as indicated by increased occupancy at hotels and attendance at restaurants, attractions and cultural institutions.”

According to LAtourist.com, Hollywood remains the most popular destination for visitors to the city, head of the likes of Disneyland and Beverley Hills.

Posted by Emily Sanders