A new survey reveals that the United States is the world’s top country brand in 2009, rising from a position of third spot in 2008. However, this distinction does not translate to an increase in the number of visitors.
The Country Brand Index (CBI) which was released today by FutureBrand, in conjunction with Weber Shandwick’s Global Travel & Lifestyle Practice, led Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association to observe that, while interest in the United States is growing, policy makers must ask the question why it is not resulting in greater overseas travel to the U.S.
Dow noted that according to the Department of Commerce, August was the 10th straight month in which international travel spending in the United States declined. And 2009 will be the eight straight year in which overseas arrivals fell short of pre-9/11 visitors to the country.
According to the Country Brand Index report, the Unites States ranks #1 in brand image but remains in the bottom half of countries for ‘ease of travel’ to and within the country.
“It’s past time for our country to make welcoming visitors a priority. These visitors are key to our diplomacy and economy. It’s time for a fair and effective visa system that limits wait times and arbitrary refusals. It’s time for an entry process that is the envy of the world in its use of technology and efficient screening. And it’s time to welcome people to our shores by passing the Travel Promotion Act and promoting America as a premier travel destination”, said Dow in a statement released today.
Dow noted too that, the travel industry can create jobs and strengthen America’s image in the world. “The onus is on policymakers to work with this industry, tap into the global demand and welcome millions of new visitors to our great country”, he said.
Source: hotelnewsresource.com
