Guest nights close to a normal level in July

Figures from the accommodation statistics show there were approximately 6.4 million guest nights at commercial accommodation establishments in July this year, a 3.1 per cent decrease compared to July 2019. Norwegian guest nights increased by 39 per cent while foreign guest nights dropped by 79 per cent.

Measures introduced in March to prevent the spread of the coronavirus had dramatic consequences on commercial accommodation establishments. As the restrictions were mostly concerning the lack of foreign tourism, this had a impact on total guest nights in July, which normally is a popular month for foreign travellers.

Increased Norwegian guest nights

There was an increase in Norwegian guest nights in all accommodation types in July this year compared to July last year. Norwegian guest nights increased by 35 per cent at hotels, 40 per cent at camping sites and 65 per cent at holiday dwellings and youth hostels. Foreign guest nights were however four times as many in July as in June. Most of these foreign guests were from Denmark, Germany and Finland.

Hotels still affected

There was a decrease by 9.0 per cent of guest nights at Norwegian hotels in July 2020 compared to July 2019 because foreign guest nights were absent. This was especially seen in Oslo and other big cities and regions that depend on foreign tourists.

Increase at camping sites persists

Norwegian guest nights at camping sites increased by 40 per cent in July this year compared to July 2019. July is traditionally a popular month for foreign tourists, and Norwegian tourists have replaced them in many parts of the country. The largest increase in guests nights at camping sites were in Viken and Norland counties, while the biggest decrease was in Vestland county.