Touring in Italy Aided by Special Currency Rates

Manawatu Times, Volume 62, Issue 55, 6 March 1937, Page 14 (Supplement)

Touring in Italy Aided by Special Currency Rates

ROME.—Tourists have been coming once more in large numbers into Italy. Big cities claim to have broken previous records as regards foreign visitors. Their number appears to be even greater than it really is, especially after their complete disappearance during the latter half of 1935 and the early months of 1936. The past summer season has been an exceptionally good one from the tourist viewpoint. Hotel-keepers and travel agencies anticipate that, if there are no unfavourable developments in the international situation, the coming year will see another notable Increase in the number of foreign tourists. Letters of Credit There are various causes which account for the revival of the tourist trade in this country. The Fascist Government is offering numerous facilities to attract foreigners. Foremost among them is the institution of tourist lire and travellers' letters of credit, whereby foreigners can obtain lire at a much cheaper rate than that quoted in the official market.

In addition, they are offered special hotel coupons which enable them to obtain board and lodgings in almost any hotel and pension in this country at reduced prices. Motorists, moreover, may get petrol coupons for the supply of petrol at reduced prices. An incentive to foreigners to visit particular Italian towns is further given by the great number of exhibitions and shows, festivals, and theatrical, musical and artistic manifestations staged m various cities throughout the whole year. It was noted that in recent months, in addition to a considerable number ot American and German tourists, France has sent a large contingent of tourists to Italy, and that it is now in the frontline in the list of nations arranged according to the number of tourists they send to this country.