Wisconsin travelers prove power of internet
For anyone who’s ever doubted the power of the internet in travel, there’s news from the state of Wisconsin to consider.
Travelers visited the state’s official tourism Web site in record numbers with a 24% increase last year.
Wisconsin drew close to four million users in 2005, up 600,000 from the previous year.
“The consistent growth in traffic to travelwisconsin.com confirms that the internet is how people today are looking for their travel information,” said Jim Holperin, the state’s tourism secretary.
He attributed the jump in users in large part to advertising on search engines such as Google and Yahoo to reach potential travelers that may not have seen print or broadcast advertising.
Enhanced content to the site also helped draw users. New features included a Global Positioning System (GPS) and a Virtual Wisconsin section.
Starting this year, the state is offering all its travel guides in an electronic format. Travelers can download and print them without waiting for mail.
First person “travelogues” written by individuals traveling around the state will also be added to the site this year.
Report by David Wilkening
David
Vegas’s Billion-Dollar Secrets – What They Don’t Want Tourists to Know
Visit Florida’s New CEO Bryan Griffin Shares His Vision for State Tourism with Graham
Chicago’s Tourism Renaissance: Graham Interviews Kristin Reynolds of Choose Chicago
Graham Talks with Cassandra McCauley of MMGY NextFactor About the Latest Industry Research
Destination International’s Andreas Weissenborn: Research, Advocacy, and Destination Impact
Graham and Don Welsh Discuss the Success of Destinations International’s Annual Conference
Graham and CEO Andre Kiwitz on Ventura Travel’s UK Move and Recruitment for the Role
Brett Laiken and Graham Discuss Florida’s Tourism Momentum and Global Appeal
Graham and Elliot Ferguson on Positioning DC as a Cultural and Inclusive Global Destination
Graham Talks to Fraser Last About His England-to-Ireland Trek for Mental Health Awareness
Kathy Nelson Tells Graham About the Honour of Hosting the World Cup and Kansas City’s Future
Graham McKenzie on Sir Richie Richardson’s Dual Passion for Golf and His Homeland, Antigua
ADS PRO 
Airlines suspend Madagascar services following unrest and army revolt
Airbnb eyes a loyalty program but details remain under wraps
Qatar Airways offers flexible payment options for European travellers
Air Mauritius reduces frequencies to Europe and Asia for the holiday season
Major rail disruptions around and in Berlin until early 2026