Sunshine Matters

In support of the state’s No. 1 industry, Governor Scott met last week with a contingent of international airline executives and tour operators to discuss ways to increase airlift to Florida.  VISIT FLORIDA coordinated the event, which brought together key executives from Aer Lingus, British Airways, Copa Airlines, Etihad, Iceland Air, iTravel2000, Monarch Travel, Qatar Airways, Sunwing Travel and Tour America. Continue reading »

According to preliminary estimates* we released today, an estimated 85.9 million visitors came to Florida in 2011, an increase of 4.4 percent over 2010.  This represents a record year for visitation to Florida, exceeding the previous high of 84.5 million in 2007.  Direct travel-related employment in Florida also rose to a near record high of 1,013,100, adding more than 38,000 jobs and representing a 3.9 percent increase over 2010.

“With such significant increases in jobs and visitors to the Sunshine State in 2011, tourism remains the state’s No. 1 industry and the leading driver of Florida’s rebounding economy,” said Governor Rick Scott. “VISIT FLORIDA and the entire Florida tourism industry are leading the way to ensuring that we become the No. 1 travel destination in the world.” Continue reading »

Governor Rick Scott and the “Sunshine Ambassadors” from VISIT FLORIDA returned from last week’s highly visible “Share a Little Sunshine” tour with a renewed commitment to the importance of tourism in Florida.  Governor Scott and the rest of the team spent two days in Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, New York City and Chicago hosting Florida-themed events, speaking with potential visitors and meetings professionals, and awarding Florida vacation packages to lucky winners.  Continue reading »