Russians big spenders in Iceland’s bars
Photo: AFP
Visitors to Iceland are spending more on their credit cards than ever before. Total credit-card expenditure in May 2015 was almost 50% higher than in May 2014.
This considerable rise is due to both greater numbers of tourists and an 8% increase in the amount each tourist spends. Foreign tourists spent a total of ISK 13.1 billion (approx. €88.2 million) in Iceland last month, according to the Icelandic Centre for Retail Studies.
Danes spend most on fast food
Of this total, ISK 1.5 billion (approx. €10.1 million) went on food and drink. Visitors from other Nordic countries – particularly Swedes and Norwegians – spend the most on food and drink as a proportion of their total expenditure, while in absolute terms it is the Russians who spend most.
In terms of money spent, the Danes take top spot when it comes to fast food and the Russians rule the roost when it comes to drink. Each Russian tourist in Iceland spent five times more money in bars and pubs in May 2015 than the average tourist.
Organised tours ever more popular
Whale watching, glacier tours and nature sightseeing are becoming ever more popular among visitors to Iceland.
The 91,000 tourists visiting Iceland last month paid tour operators ISK 3.2 billion (€8.8 million) on their credit cards for such activities. This is very nearly double the amount spent in May 2014.
