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Spain eying more Indian tourists
Indo-Asian News Service

New Delhi, Oct 20 (IANS) Spain, one of Europe's most popular travel destinations, is looking to substantially increase tourists from India.

The popular European tourist destination received the second highest number of tourists in 2004, with 53.6 million travellers flocking to its exotic locations. Among them were some 26,000 Indians.

"We have a potentially very big market in India. Currently, we attract some 26,000 Indians a year. India also hosts a huge number of Spaniards. There is scope to increase tourism activities between the two countries by four-five times," Spanish Ambassador to India Rafael Conde told IANS after inaugurating a Spanish food festival here Wednesday evening.

Spain started taking serious interest in the Indian market around three years back, observing the growing interest of travellers in exotic locations among a large number of Indians. 

"It's been around three years since we became serious about India. Ever since, we have stepped up our promotional activities here with different events like food and cultural festivals. We have planned more such events to make Indians aware about what Spain has to offer," Conde said.

"We plan to launch new advertising campaigns and offer special packages to the Indian travellers," he said.

It is not only the foot tapping flamenco and bull fighting, but there are many other attractions that Spain has to offer. According to UNESCO, it has the highest number of ancient monuments in the world.

"Spain has preserved its history well. Its ancient monuments are unmatched in the world. Besides, the Spanish food is always a hit among tourists," said the ambassador.

Alongside its rich history, Spain also has modern cities like Madrid and Barcelona that offer some great sightseeing and night life for tourists.

"Spain has many similarities with India that make it quite comfortable for the Indian tourists. We like dance, music and noise. There is a happening night life that is a major attraction for tourists," he said.

Besides, the balmy weather and the country's pretty beaches dotting the coastline are also a hit with tourists looking for getting a tan or indulging in water sports or just lying by the sea.

"It also has a very friendly climate that gives a comfortable and enjoyable stay to tourists from any part of the world," Conde said.