Burgas Region Sees Surge in Overnight Stays and Revenue Despite Fewer Accommodation Facilities
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The Burgas region,a gem along Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast,is witnessing a notable shift in its tourism landscape. Despite a decline in the number of accommodation facilities, the region has reported a important increase in overnight stays and revenue, signaling a robust recovery in its hospitality sector.
A Decline in Accommodation facilities, But a Rise in Demand
In November 2024, the Burgas region had 79 operational accommodation facilities with 10 or more beds, including hotels, motels, campsites, and lodges. These facilities offered 3,100 rooms and 6,500 beds. However, compared to November 2023, the total number of accommodation facilities decreased by 11.2%, and the number of beds dropped by 15.1%.Despite this reduction, the region experienced a 17.5% increase in overnight stays, reaching 43,300 in November 2024. Bulgarian citizens accounted for 37,300 of these stays, marking a 10.8% rise from the previous year. meanwhile, foreign tourists contributed 6,000 overnight stays, a 7.1% decline compared to November 2023.
Luxury Accommodations Lead the Way
The data reveals a clear preference for high-end accommodations.In November 2024, 70% of foreign tourists and 51.1% of Bulgarian citizens opted for 4- and 5-star facilities. these luxury accommodations also recorded the highest bed occupancy rate at 27.9%.
On the other hand, 1- and 2-star accommodations accounted for 15.7% of foreign stays and 36.2% of Bulgarian stays.Mid-range 3-star accommodations saw 14.3% of foreign and 12.7% of Bulgarian overnight stays, with a bed occupancy rate of 12.3%.
Revenue Growth Reflects Strong tourism recovery
Revenue from overnight stays in November 2024 reached 3.9 million BGN, an 18.3% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Income from Bulgarian citizens surged by 20.2%, while revenue from foreign tourists grew by 9.5%.
This growth is particularly impressive given the overall decline in accommodation facilities. The total bed occupancy rate in November 2024 was 22.7%, up by 4.8 percentage points from November 2023.
Key Insights at a Glance
| Metric | November 2024 | Change vs. November 2023 |
|———————————|——————-|——————————|
| Total Accommodation Facilities | 79 | -11.2% |
| Total Beds | 6,500 | -15.1% |
| Total Overnight Stays | 43,300 | +17.5% |
| Overnight Stays by Bulgarians | 37,300 | +10.8% |
| Overnight Stays by Foreigners | 6,000 | -7.1% |
| Revenue from Overnight Stays | 3.9 million BGN | +18.3% |
What’s Driving the Trend?
The increase in overnight stays and revenue can be attributed to several factors. Bulgarian citizens are traveling more domestically, with an average of 2.1 nights spent per stay. Foreign tourists,though fewer in number,are staying longer,averaging 2.0 nights, with 69.4% choosing 4- and 5-star accommodations.
The Burgas region’s appeal lies in its diverse offerings, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly lodgings. The rise in bed occupancy rates, particularly in high-end facilities, underscores the growing demand for quality experiences.
Looking Ahead
As the Burgas region continues to adapt to changing tourism dynamics, stakeholders are optimistic about sustaining this upward trajectory. The focus on enhancing guest experiences and leveraging the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage will be crucial in attracting both domestic and international visitors.
For more insights into Bulgaria’s tourism trends, explore Eurostat’s latest reports or delve into the Burgas Tourism Board’s initiatives to promote the region.
What are your thoughts on the evolving tourism landscape in Burgas? Share your experiences or predictions in the comments below!
Burgas Tourism Boom: expert Insights on Rising Overnight Stays and Revenue Amid Fewer Accommodations
The Burgas region, a jewel of Bulgaria’s black Sea coast, is experiencing a remarkable change in its tourism sector. Despite a decline in the number of accommodation facilities, the region has seen a meaningful surge in overnight stays and revenue, signaling a strong recovery in its hospitality industry. To delve deeper into this trend,we sat down with Dr. Elena Petrova, a leading tourism economist and regional progress specialist, to discuss the factors driving this growth and what it means for the future of Burgas.
A decline in Accommodation Facilities, But a Rise in Demand
Senior Editor: Dr. Petrova, the data shows a decline in the number of accommodation facilities in Burgas, yet overnight stays have increased. How do you explain this paradox?
Dr. Elena Petrova: It’s a engaging trend.While the number of facilities has decreased by 11.2%,the demand for quality accommodations has risen sharply. This suggests that the remaining facilities are operating more efficiently and catering to a more discerning clientele. The rise in domestic tourism, with Bulgarian citizens accounting for 37,300 overnight stays—a 10.8% increase—indicates a shift toward local travelers seeking high-quality experiences.Foreign tourists, though fewer in number, are also opting for longer stays, particularly in luxury accommodations.
luxury Accommodations Lead the Way
Senior Editor: The data highlights a clear preference for 4- and 5-star accommodations. What’s driving this trend?
Dr. Elena Petrova: Luxury accommodations are thriving because they offer more than just a place to stay—they provide an experience. In November 2024, 70% of foreign tourists and 51.1% of Bulgarian citizens chose 4- and 5-star facilities. These properties have the highest bed occupancy rate at 27.9%, reflecting their ability to attract guests willing to pay a premium for comfort and amenities. This trend aligns with global shifts in tourism,where travelers prioritize quality over quantity.
revenue Growth Reflects Strong Tourism Recovery
Senior Editor: Revenue from overnight stays increased by 18.3% in November 2024. What factors are contributing to this growth?
Dr. Elena Petrova: The revenue growth is a direct result of higher occupancy rates and the shift toward premium accommodations. Bulgarian citizens contributed significantly, with a 20.2% increase in revenue,while foreign tourists added 9.5%. The overall bed occupancy rate rose to 22.7%, up 4.8 percentage points from the previous year. This indicates that despite fewer facilities, the region is maximizing its capacity and generating higher income per guest.
What’s Driving the Trend?
Senior Editor: beyond the numbers, what broader trends are influencing Burgas’ tourism recovery?
Dr. Elena Petrova: Several factors are at play. Frist, domestic tourism is booming as Bulgarians explore their own country, averaging 2.1 nights per stay.Second, foreign tourists, though fewer, are staying longer—averaging 2.0 nights—and opting for luxury stays. The region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and diverse offerings, from high-end resorts to budget-friendly options, are key attractions. Additionally, initiatives like the DETOCS project, which promotes enduring tourism, are enhancing the region’s appeal [[1]].
looking Ahead
Senior Editor: What does the future hold for Burgas’ tourism sector?
Dr. Elena Petrova: The outlook is optimistic. Stakeholders are focusing on enhancing guest experiences and leveraging the region’s unique assets. By investing in sustainability and promoting cultural tourism, Burgas can attract both domestic and international visitors. The challenge will be maintaining this upward trajectory while balancing growth with environmental and social considerations. Projects like those supported by the Burgas Municipality and regional development agencies will be crucial [[2]].
Senior Editor: Thank you, Dr. Petrova, for your insights. It’s clear that Burgas is on a promising path, and we look forward to seeing how the region continues to evolve.
Dr. Elena Petrova: Thank you. Burgas is indeed a region to watch, and I’m excited to see its continued growth and innovation in the tourism sector.
