Adelaide welcomed 84% of the 475,000 international visitors who stayed for an accumulative 8.5 million nights, proving the allure of the city’s offerings.

“The city of Adelaide is South Australia’s most visited destination and a gateway to our world-renowned regions and the Australian outback,” says Lord Mayor Martin Haese.

The Adelaide Airport is in the throes of a $165 million expansion of its main terminal to provide an internationally competitive experience for passengers. The expansion is expected to attract more flight paths and additional services from international carriers.

See also: $165m Adelaide Airport expansion approved

CEO of Culshaw Group of Companies/Majestic Roof Garden Hotel, Eoin (Owen) Loftus believes international visitor expenditure is critical for his business – representing approximately a third of his guests.

“International markets often stay longer, spend more and disperse into our regions which is most important. Solid international base of clientele, helps diversify our market mix enabling more steady flows of guests right throughout the year,” Mr Loftus said.

Incentive tourism groups are a growing and lucrative market for Adelaide and South Australia. Unlike other business events, incentive tourism is usually conducted purely for entertainment rather than educational or professional purposes. In June 2017, a group of 2,714 delegates from a direct selling company in China visited over a two-week period and generated $11.2 million in economic benefit. Adelaide and South Australia are becoming recognised as a destination of choice for these incentive groups.

See also: TFE Hotels to open first Vibe Hotel in Adelaide 2020

The substantial growth of visitors to Adelaide is reflected in the expansion of luxury accommodation options. Global brands such as Sofitel Hotel, Crowne Plaza and Marriott's Westin are entering the marketplace alongside plans for Adelaide Casino to incorporate a hotel offering in its $330 million expansion.

See also: Westin Hotel Adelaide GPO redevelopment

Visitors with discerning palettes are flocking to Adelaide to experience the gourmet food and wine journey firsthand, with South Australia accounting for 61% of Australia’s total wine exports in 2017. A JLL Australia report has also revealed that Adelaide's gourmet hospitality offerings aren't just delicious but also a key driver of local real estate development, tourism and retail spending.

See also: Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets opening in 2020

“Our food and wine offering, abundant local produce and emerging laneway and small bar culture have encouraged city vibrancy and provide a reason for visitors to come and experience Adelaide” says Lord Mayor Martin Haese