Travel: U.S. finalizes ambitious national tourism strategy

Posted on May 11, 2012 by Bob Berwyn

Administration aims to boost visits to U.. by 50 percent

New Orleans is a top tourism destination in the U.S.

By Summit Voice

SUMMIT COUNTY — After working together with key players in the travel and hospitality industries, the Obama administration this week delivered the final version of a National Tourism and Travel Strategy aimed at boosting international travel to the U.S. by 50 percent in the next 10 years.

The ambitious goal would lead to additional spending of $250 billion per year, helping to creat jobs and spur economic growth across the country. It’s the first time that the highest levels of the U.S. government have recognized the potential of tourism as an economic engine.

By some estimates, travel supports more than 14.4 million American jobs and contributes $1.9 trillion to our economy — and travel exports have been booming. Travel exports totaled a record $152 billion in 2011, and the travel industry is now the number one contributor to the country’s balance of trade. (more…)

Filed under: business, Colorado, tourism, Travel | Tagged: , , , , , , | 2 Comments »

U.S. tourism industry seeks easier access for travelers

Posted on March 15, 2012 by Bob Berwyn

Easing visa requirements, cutting wait time  at airports and boosting youth travel seen as crucial to sustaining tourism growth

Locals and tourist line Main Street in Frisco, Colorado, to watch the annual Independence Day parade, one of the biggest events of the year in the small Rocky Mountain town.

By Bob Berwyn

SUMMIT COUNTY — The Colorado high country could benefit — at least indirectly — from a sweeping effort to boost international visitation to the U.S. under a national travel and tourism strategy being developed by the Obama administration.

The U.S. State Department has already added 100 workers and expanded hours to process tourist visa applications in China and Brazil, both seen as key markets for the U.S. tourism market. A new consular facility in Beijing should increase visa interview capacity by 50 percent, and consular officers in Brazil can now waive interviews for applicants younger than 15 and older than 66.

The U.S. Travel Association believes even more can be done to spur travel, which could potentially add thousands of new jobs and result in millions of dollars in revenue for American businesses. (more…)

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