SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) Tourism officials in New Mexico say more people are visiting the state. A report from the state's Tourism Department found that New Mexico saw 2.6 percent more overnight and day visitors in 2012 than in 2011. There were 32 million overnight and day visitors in 2012. The previous high was in 2008, with 31.4 million visits.
Tourists spent an estimated $5.9 billion in New Mexico last year. In 2011, tourists spent just over $5.5 billion in the state.
The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that tourism officials believe the higher numbers are an indication that last year's $2 million advertising budget increase for tourism marketing was successful.
The New Mexico Tourism Department is asking for a $2.5 million budget increase for advertising next year.
