Source: forestfollynews.com
Governor Charlie Crist at the opening of the 42nd Annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism on Monday, expressed optimism in Florida’s tourism industry, notwithstanding the challenging economic conditions. Crist said that “Florida remains one of the world’s leading tourist destinations” and now is the time to collectively and creatively ensure promotional efforts connect with critical markets, essential for a rebound in the industry.
Preliminary estimates show Canadian travel to Florida was up by 5.2 percent during the second quarter of 2009 (April-June) compared to the previous year, which included an increase in both air and non-air visitors. Governor Crist also highlighted recent innovative tourism programs such as the Viva Florida! campaign, a multi-year, multi-city consumer awareness campaign tailored to educate audiences and promote Spanish culture and heritage throughout the state. In addition, the Governor emphasized Florida’s long tradition as a top tourist destination known for its array of vacation opportunities and experiences.
The theme of this year’s annual tourism conference is “Selling the Sunshine, a Florida Tradition.” Tourism in Florida provides 21 percent of the state’s total taxable sales, and tourism industry employment represents more than one million jobs. In 2008, tourism returned $3.9 billion to Florida in tax revenue and generated $65.2 billion in direct economic impact.
The conference, coordinated by VISIT FLORIDA, brings together key members of Florida’s tourism industry to discuss the latest industry trends, conditions and business practices.
