Orlando becomes first US destination to top 55 million
Orlando had another record attendance year and says it became the first destination in this country to welcome 55.1 million visitors, making it the most visited destination in the US.
Total domestic visitation (business & leisure) accounted for a 7.5% increase over 2010 and a record for any US destination; international travel totaled 3.8 million, an increase of 3.5% from 2010.
"We are known worldwide as the top family destination and we continue to be a top choice for inspiring meetings," said Paul Tang, chairman of Visit Orlando.
How did they do it? He cited families and the improved meeting market.
New marketing campaigns also helped. A new meetings and conventions marketing effort focused on the "influencer" in making decisions.
Visit Orlando also showcased the destination’s offerings to thousands of tour operators and travel professionals at numerous key travel industry trade shows throughout North America, Europe, Latin America and Asia. The destination also initiated new marketing campaigns domestically co increase tourism during slower periods such as May-June and Mid-August-September.
Canada continues to be Orlando’s number one international market breaking the 1 million visitor mark for the first time, an increase of 5.7%, followed by the United Kingdom (767,000).
By David Wilkening
David
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