Travel
Arizona Tourism Launches Plan To Reopen Travel
"Rediscover Arizona" wants to bring business back to Arizona destinations, businesses and attractions under COVID-19 safety guidelines.
PHOENIX — The Arizona Office of Tourism launched “Rediscover Arizona,” a campaign to encourage residents statewide to visit attractions and businesses across the state.
According to Chamber Business News, the program will focus on Phoenix, and eventually expand to Southern and Northern Arizona campaigns. The state will follow a phase-in approach that gradually reopens tourism in Arizona. Phase one of the Rediscover Arizona campaign will run through (at least) July 4. The goal is to get Arizonans excited about travel again and to begin exploring within the limits comfortable to them.
The new website features open spaces, road trips, staycations, camping and travel that aligns with the state safety guidelines for the tourism industry in limiting the spread of COVID-19. Debbie Johnson, director of the Arizona Office of Tourism is working with Gov. Doug Ducey to stimulate the Arizona economy.
Find out what's happening in Across Arizonafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
"We are grateful that the recent reopening of pools, fitness centers and spas has driven positive results for some of our resort and hotel partners. Thank you to everyone who continues to share what’s happening in their part of the industry and state, as it’s very helpful in guiding our efforts. Our latest data shows occupancy is very slowly inching upwards, which wouldn’t normally be cause for celebration, but it is certainly good news during these unprecedented times," said Johnson in an announcement.
According to the Arizona Office of Tourism, travel generated $24.4 billion for Arizona's economy. In April the Lodging & Tourism Association reported a $1.5 billion economic loss and a 40% decrease in employment in the industry.
Find out what's happening in Across Arizonafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
"A substantial portion of our state’s tourism revenue is directly attributable to business travel and meetings hosted in Arizona hotels, resorts, and convention centers. The economic activity generated by convention attendees and exhibitors is vital and getting our meetings industry back up and running is our next priority," said Johnson.
Learn more at letsseeaz.com.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.