State Committed To Supporting Tourism

Originally Posted to The Macomb Daily

Despite the economic recession, state officials say an increase in advertising will keep Michigan's tourism industry flourishing this year.

"At a time when many states are reducing their tourism promotion efforts, we have the largest budget for tourism promotion in Michigan's history at $30 million," said George Zimmermann, vice president of Travel Michigan, a unit of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation which markets the tourism industry and provides visitor information services.

A key component in the marketing campaign kicks off this week with advertising on popular cable television channels including A&E, Bravo, HGTV, Food Network, CNN, MSNBC, DIY Network, Fox News, Travel Channel and Golf Channel.

"There are millions of Americans who know little or nothing about the vibrancy, heritage, culture, arts and entertainment in our great cities, the sandy beaches and stunning overlooks along America's longest fresh-water coastline, or the majesty and recreation in our 19 million acres of magnificent forests," Zimmermann said.

In contrast to the ad campaign, some travel industry experts still see a small decline in Michigan tourism, due mostly to the economic downturn.

"We're looking at a decline of 3 percent to 4 percent in travel volume and spending," said Don Holecek, a tourism analyst with Michigan State University.

"If gas prices stay down in the $2 range that they're at now, we could see a 4 percent to 5 percent decline in prices, which will make Michigan's travel product even more affordable."

Encouraging Michigan and non-Michigan residents to vacation in our fine state is both wise and profitable.

Studies show that for each dollar Michigan spent on out-of-state advertising from 2004 through 2008, new visits to Michigan motivated by that advertising created more than $40 spending at state businesses and generated $2.86 in new state tax collections.

So whether you're looking for a golf vacation up north or a boating excursion on the Nautical Mile, Michigan has something to offer any traveler.

You don't always have to go far away from home to have a good time.

The 2009 Michigan Travel Ideas magazine is available free of charge; go to Michigan.org or call toll free (888) 784-7328.