A December 2001 poll of the nation's state tourism directors showed that 19 of the 38 who responded to the questionnaire anticipated recovery within…
A December 2001 poll of the nation's state tourism directors showed that 19 of the 38 who responded to the questionnaire anticipated recovery within six months. Eleven others expect recovery by the end of the year.
Directors in 31 of the 38 states that responded reported that tourism revenues had declined since September 2001, and 20 of the directors report budget reductions followed. Four states indicated that revenues had not declined and three states indicated that they lacked sufficient economic data to make a determination for their respective state. Forty-one percent of the state tourism office executives have redirected marketing dollars, 23 percent have cancelled some promotions, and 21 percent have increased advertising.
Marketing changes included new in-state, drive or regional marketing initiatives, special packaging, and "hot deals" promotions.
Only five states and the District of Columbia reported receiving special appropriations for economic recovery; 31 states indicated that they had not. Of those who did receive additional funds, New York clearly received the most: $40 million. The remaining five respondents received between $50,000 and $2 million, or an average of $850,000.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
