The table illustrates changes in the number of people who travelled internationally between 1990 and 2005, measured in millions, across different regions of the world.
Overall, international travel increased steadily over the period. Europe remained the most popular destination throughout, while Africa and the Middle East recorded the lowest figures. All regions experienced growth, although at different rates.
In 1990, the total number of international travellers stood at 448.9 million. This figure rose significantly to 615.2 million in 1995 and continued to increase to 669.2 million in 2000, reaching a peak of 693.7 million by 2005. Europe accounted for the largest share, growing from 280.2 million in 1990 to 400.2 million in 2005.
Travel to Asia and the Pacific also showed substantial growth, almost doubling from 60.2 million to 135.8 million over the 15-year period. Similarly, America saw an increase from 80.5 million in 1990 to 113.2 million in 2005, although there was a slight decline after 2000.
By contrast, Africa and the Middle East attracted far fewer tourists. Africa rose modestly from 18.2 million to 28.7 million, while the Middle East increased from 9.8 million to 15.8 million during the same period.