New York City ended 2018 with a bang, as they welcomed a record number of 65.2 million tourists, making it the ninth consecutive year that the city saw tourism growth.
Of the 65.2 million visitors, 51.6 million were domestic travelers and 13.5 million were international tourists with most international travelers visiting from the U.K., China, Canada, Brazil, and France.
Travelers booked a record number of 37.7 million hotel room nights citywide which generated $623 million in estimated hotel occupancy tax revenues.
"This record-breaking year of tourism proves what every New Yorker knows: this is the greatest City in the world to live in and visit. New York City embodies true American values. We embrace diversity and are welcoming to all, and the more than 65 million visitors to our city were able to experience that first hand," said New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio.
But New York City isn't focusing on 2018 for long. Instead, they're setting their sights on 67 million visitors they predict will visit the city in 2019. The Big Apple expects a bump in numbers related to big events to be held in the city, like WorldPride, which will be celebrated in the U.S. for the first time.
NYC & Company, the city's tourism board, also announced a new partnership with Mastercard today
"While celebrating a new tourism milestone, it is an exciting moment to announce our new partnership with Mastercard, an iconic and innovative global brand, elevating our efforts to attract a broader worldwide audience to experience New York City's unparalleled offerings," said NYC & Company president and CEO Fred Dixon. "Through this unprecedented marketing collaboration with Mastercard, we will reach more consumers directly to grow overnight stays and expand neighborhood exploration across the five boroughs while also supporting small business development, continued job growth and opportunities for New Yorkers."
Cheryl Guerin, executive vice president of North America Marketing & Communications at Mastercard echoed Dixon's sentiments: "Experience lies at the heart of New York City and we are thrilled to partner with NYC & Company to support one of the world's most visited cities while also giving our cardholders Priceless opportunities to experience it in new and meaningful ways."
"Together with this expanded relationship, we can further our local economic development efforts to continue to ensure New York City remains a must-visit destination."
With this partnership, Mastercard holders will get exclusive access to certain experiences available in NYC such as pre-sale opportunities and discounts at merchants during NYC & Company programs such as NYC Restaurant Week, Broadway Week, and Must-See Week.
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