Hotels in Rome saw a 40% increase in average room rates as a consequence of the death of John Paul II and the resulting influx of visitors during April 2005.

Deloitte’s Daily HotelBenchmark assessment revealed that the rates reached their highest levels on 7 and 8 April, the day before and the day of the funeral. On these two days hoteliers achieved average room rates of €240 and €231, a premium of €80 on the rate achieved at the same period last year.

However, during the rest of April, average room rates showed no similar significant movement against 2004.

During April occupancy levels peaked at 97% on 23 April, the day before the inauguration of the new Pope Benedict XVI, compared with 74% occupancy achieved on the same day in April last year.

For the rest of the year, Rome’s hotel performance is expected to continue to improve against 2004. The events of April have been predicted to boost Rome’s profile and visitor numbers, which will in turn benefit hoteliers.

Buy this week's Caterer magazine for more industry news and analysis