TORONTO — A record-breaking 39% more Canadians arrived in Israel in May 2014 than in May 2013, according to Haim Gutin, Consul and Israel Tourism Commissioner, North and South America.

Overall, Canadian tourism to Israel is up 16% for the five-month period, January-May.

Last year was the best year ever for tourism to Israel, with close to four million visitors. Worldwide tourism to Israel was up 17% in May 2014 over May 2013.

“Frankly, an increase of 39% is staggering – it’s the largest ever monthly increase in Canadian tourism to Israel that I can recall,” said Gutin. “What it means is that Israel is experiencing a phenomenal increase in general market tourism from Canada. An increase of these proportions is proof positive that the Ministry of Tourism’s Canadian promotional efforts in terms of public relations, marketing, social media and advertising are succeeding,” Gutin said.

For more information about travel to Israel, visit goisrael.ca.