Sunshine Matters

Brand USA today named the new leader for national tourism: our own Chris Thompson, VISIT FLORIDA’s president and CEO.  There is no better choice for the job.

I congratulate Chris on this exciting opportunity to replicate at the national level the successes he has achieved at VISIT FLORIDA.  In the past three years, Chris has proven he has the vision, passion and commitment to build and lead a world-class organization that will increase the economic impact of international visitors to the United States. Continue reading »

I am proud to announce VISIT FLORIDA’s new Airline Grant Program, which will support Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) within the state and stimulate the Florida economy by expanding international air service to the Sunshine State. VISIT FLORIDA will budget up to $250,000 per year through 2016 to support the program.

“The Airline Grant program is an innovative initiative that will ensure Florida remains at the forefront of international air service expansion opportunities,” said Chris Thompson, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA. “As we continue to position ourselves as the No. 1 travel destination in the world, this is a great way for the state to attract new overseas travelers by creating inbound flights to Florida.” Continue reading »

On Thursday, we hosted a Log-In & Learn titled “VISIT FLORIDA Committee Overview” where Chris Thompson, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, presented information on how Partners can become involved in the VISIT FLORIDA committee process and learn more about what committee service entails. In case you missed it, we have posted the webinar to our Learning Library, so you can listen and view at your convenience.

Industry members play a major role in the evolution of VISIT FLORIDA programs and opportunities. VISIT FLORIDA Partners, including some of the industry’s foremost experts, serve on our committees, which meet to recommend strategic actions. VISIT FLORIDA’s Board of Directors established these committees to enhance and maximize industry input toward fulfilling VISIT FLORIDA’s commitment to being “industry-led.” If you are interested in serving, don’t miss the April 13 deadline to apply. Continue reading »

I am extremely proud to announce the launch of an innovative, first-of-its-kind digital brand awareness co-op program with Google. VISIT FLORIDA is the first partner to pilot this new program, developed by Google specifically for the travel industry. Continue reading »

As part of our ongoing efforts to establish Florida as the No. 1 travel destination in the world, VISIT FLORIDA has begun a review of our advertising and digital service business providers to make certain we are working with the very best agencies in their respective areas of expertise. Continue reading »