what is tourist board

What is a tourist board? A SIMPLE explanation

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A tourist board is an important type of travel and tourism organisation that makes up a key part of the structure of the travel and tourism industry . But what is a tourist board, what does this organisation do and why are tourist boards so important? Read on to learn more…

What is a tourist board?

What type of organisation is a tourist board, what does a tourist board do, national tourist boards, regional tourist boards, local tourist boards, what is a tourist board: further reading.

A tourist board is a tourist organisation that is founded with a view to promoting and creating the identity, and to enhance the reputation of tourism in a particular location. They are official organisations that encourages tourists to visit a particular city, country, or region. 

A tourist board is a not for profit organisation that is usually government owned. This means that the focus is on providing a service to the general public, as opposed to making a direct profit. However, indirectly, tourist boards do help to make money for the country because their aim is to promote the tourism industry, which in turn brings in revenue. Tourist boards are publicly funded, meaning that the money needed to operate comes from money that is raised through taxation. Tourist boards operate within the public sector.

A tourist board is generally a point of information for consumers or tourists. The primary aim is to promote tourism in a particular area. They may do this through a range of marketing initiatives including targeted campaigns and advertisements. Tourist boards may run adverts on TV and place advertisements on bus shelters or on the tube, for example. Tourist boards have also been known to partner with influencers such as bloggers and Instagram influencers who will promote the destination to their followers. Sometimes these can be sizeable campaigns.

Tourist boards will also provide information about a specific area, including transportation options, popular tourist attractions , and types of accommodation available in the area. Tourist boards also provide information about the history and the culture of a specific area.

Behind the scenes, tourist boards also do a lot of work to help manage and facilitate the tourism provision in a particular area. Some of their duties may include:

• Conducting market research
• Analysis and appraisal of tourism business in the area
• Liaising with other Governmental organisations
• Managing tourist representative and the provision of tourist information
• Cooperation with tourist boards in other destinations
• Developing the tourism provision in the area

Different levels of tourists boards

There are different levels of tourist boards that focus on different levels of tourism, I will explain each of these below.

National tourist boards oversee tourism at a national level, in other words, they are responsible for tourism throughout the country, or the nation. National tourist boards typically set the agenda for tourism and support the sector to improve what is has to offer. National tourist boards provide funding and help to promote a positive image of the country. They will also work closely with other areas of Government at a national level.

Examples of national tourist boards include Visit Britain , Amazing Thailand and Incredible India .

Regional tourist boards are organisations that are in charge of promoting and managing tourism at a regional level. Regional tourist boards will often work closely with national tourist boards. Their main role is to lead the regional tourism strategies in the area. Regional tourist boards will collaborate with local authorities, tourism businesses and other organisations to undertake a range of marketing, product investment and business support activities within the travel and tourism industry.

A local tourist board is a tourist board that focusses on a specific local area. Many local tourist boards will support local tourism groups and associations that help to bring together the private and public sector. Local tourist boards will address issues at grass roots and will demonstrate a higher level of understanding of tourism in a particular area than a national or regional tourist board will. They will work closely will the local authority and local Government.

Local tourist boards will often have responsibility for tourist information centres. These are centres that provide a range of information to tourists on attractions, accommodation, hospitality options etc within the local area. There will often be trained staff who work at the tourist information centres who are able to advise and help tourists. There may also be a small gift shop onsite.

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What Is a Tourist Board?

A tourist board is an official organization that encourages travelers to visit their city, country, or region. What do tourist boards do? They provide information about the area, including transportation, popular attractions, and where to stay. They also provide information regarding the history and the culture of a specific area.

How Can Tourist Boards Help Vacation Rental Businesses?

When families or individuals plan their trips, they often search for a list of tourist boards to help them with their itinerary. The travel tourism board gives them details they can use when deciding on what to see or do in the area. 

It’s beneficial to connect with tourist boards if you are a vacation rental business. Not only does it make your vacation rental more visible to potential guests, but it also recommends you as a trusted vacation rental owner. 

Travelers using tourist boards to plan their trips will be more likely to book with you because they see that you are a legitimate business whose reputation is backed up by the tourist board. Connecting with your local tourist board will significantly increase your bookings. 

If you’re hoping to promote your vacation rental business, local tourist boards will be the best connections you can make compared to regional or national boards. That’s because a local board connected with your city or county is made up of other locals that know the ins and outs of the tourist industry in which you live. They will be more closely connected to the businesses they recommend to tourists, including your vacation rental. 

Difference between National and Regional Tourist Boards

Two other main types of tourist boards are the national and the regional tourist board. Their definitions are nearly identical. As their titles suggest, the national board cares for tourist information within the entire country. On the other hand, the regional tourist board shares information about specific provinces, states, or regions within the country. It might include things like the climate, local attractions, and common customs. 

What Is a National Tourist Board?

National tourist boards work to promote and create the identity of an area at a national level. They enhance the reputation of tourism and raise the quality of tourist activities throughout the country.

All business operations that promote tourism in the country are organized, conducted, and implemented by the national tourist board. Their tasks include doing market research, designing programs and projects for tourism, and establishing representative tourist offices in foreign countries. 

What Is a Regional Tourist Board?

Regional tourist boards are organizations that monitor the tourism aspect of a specific region or province within a country. They are better equipped to make suggestions and monitor tourism activities in the region because they understand the area’s particular dynamics. 

Take, for example, a country like the United States. While each state is considered American soil, the weather, activities, food, and culture differ significantly between Southern states like Florida and Northern states like Montana. 

Therefore, a regional tourist board will be able to give clear advice based on the specifics of each state or region. 

What is a Tourist Board?

A Tourist Board (also known as a tourism board or destination marketing organization) is an organization, typically funded by a government or private sector, that promotes and develops tourism in a particular region or destination.

The primary goal of a tourist board is to increase the number of visitors to the region or destination and to enhance the visitor experience by providing information and services that help visitors plan their trips and enjoy their stay.

Tourist boards typically undertake a range of marketing and promotional activities, such as advertising, public relations, events, and social media campaigns, to attract visitors. They also work closely with tourism businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, and attractions, to develop and promote tourism products and services.

In addition, tourist boards may provide visitor information services, such as visitor centers, maps, and guides, to help visitors navigate the destination and find activities and attractions that interest them.

How are tourist boards a benefit to vacation rental businesses?

Tourist boards can play an important role in helping vacation rental businesses by providing a range of services and resources that can help these businesses reach new customers and improve their operations. Here are some ways that tourist boards can help vacation rental businesses:

Promotion and Marketing: Tourist boards often have large marketing budgets and established promotional campaigns to attract visitors to a region or destination. By partnering with a tourist board, vacation rental businesses can benefit from this marketing and promotion, gaining increased exposure to potential customers.

Industry Research and Insights: Tourist boards often conduct research into the tourism industry, providing valuable insights into consumer trends and travel behaviors. This information can be used by vacation rental businesses to tailor their offerings to meet the needs and preferences of visitors.

Networking and Collaboration: Tourist boards often host industry events and workshops, providing opportunities for vacation rental businesses to network and collaborate with other tourism industry professionals. These events can be a valuable source of knowledge and ideas for improving operations and customer service.

Visitor Information and Services: Tourist boards typically provide a range of visitor information and services, such as visitor centers, maps, and guides. Vacation rental businesses can benefit from this by providing their guests access to these resources, which can help enhance the visitor experience and encourage return visits.

Training and Development: Tourist boards may offer training and development programs for tourism industry professionals, including vacation rental businesses. These programs can help improve business operations, customer service, and overall business performance.

By working with tourist boards, vacation rental businesses can benefit from increased exposure, industry insights, networking opportunities, and access to valuable resources and services.

Are there different kinds of tourist boards?

Yes, there are different kinds of tourist boards, each with its own focus and goals. Here are some examples:

National Tourist Boards: These are typically government-funded organizations that promote a country as a tourist destination. Their focus is on marketing the country as a whole and attracting visitors from around the world.

Regional Tourist Boards: These are organizations that promote a particular region within a country as a tourist destination. Their focus is on marketing the unique attractions and experiences of the region to potential visitors.

City Tourist Boards: These are organizations that promote a particular city as a tourist destination. Their focus is on marketing the city’s attractions, events, and cultural experiences to potential visitors.

Industry-Specific Tourist Boards: These are organizations that promote a specific sector within the tourism industry, such as adventure tourism, culinary tourism, or eco-tourism. They focus on marketing the unique experiences and opportunities within that sector to potential visitors.

Non-Profit Tourist Boards: These are organizations that promote tourism in a particular area or region without seeking profit. Their focus is on promoting the destination for the benefit of the local community, rather than generating revenue.

Each type of tourist board has its own approach to promoting tourism, and businesses within the industry can work with these boards to gain exposure and support.

What are some tourist board examples?

There are numerous tourist boards operating around the world. Here are some examples:

VisitBritain

VisitBritain is the national tourist board for the United Kingdom, promoting tourism across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. They focus on marketing the country’s rich history, diverse cultural experiences, and scenic natural landscapes to potential visitors. VisitBritain offers a range of resources for tourism businesses, including marketing and promotional campaigns, industry research and insights, and visitor information services.

Tourism Australia

Tourism Australia is the national tourist board for Australia, promoting tourism across the country, including major cities, natural attractions, and cultural experiences. Their focus is on marketing the country’s unique wildlife, natural beauty, and outdoor activities to potential visitors. Tourism Australia offers a range of resources for tourism businesses, including marketing and promotional campaigns, industry research and insights, and visitor information services.

NYC & Company

NYC & Company is the tourist board for New York City, promoting tourism to the city’s iconic landmarks, museums, restaurants, and cultural events. Their focus is on marketing the city as a vibrant, dynamic destination for travelers from around the world. NYC & Company offers a range of resources for tourism businesses, including marketing and promotional campaigns, industry research and insights, and visitor information services.

Costa Rica Tourism Board

The Costa Rica Tourism Board is the national tourist board for Costa Rica, promoting the country’s eco-tourism, adventure activities, and natural beauty. Their focus is on marketing the country’s unique biodiversity, sustainable tourism practices, and cultural experiences to potential visitors. The Costa Rica Tourism Board offers a range of resources for tourism businesses, including marketing and promotional campaigns, industry research and insights, and visitor information services.

Jamaica Tourist Board

The Jamaica Tourist Board is the national tourist board for Jamaica, promoting the country’s beaches, music, culture, and cuisine. Their focus is on marketing the country as a vibrant, welcoming destination for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. The Jamaica Tourist Board offers a range of resources for tourism businesses, including marketing and promotional campaigns, industry research and insights, and visitor information services.

Dubai Tourism

Dubai Tourism is the tourist board for Dubai, promoting the city’s luxury experiences, shopping, and attractions. Their focus is on marketing the city as a world-class destination for travelers seeking opulence and luxury. Dubai Tourism offers a range of resources for tourism businesses, including marketing and promotional campaigns, industry research and insights, and visitor information services.

Tourism Authority of Thailand

The Tourism Authority of Thailand is the national tourist board for Thailand, promoting the country’s rich cultural heritage, food, and natural beauty. Their focus is on marketing the country’s unique blend of history, religion, and modernity to potential visitors. The Tourism Authority of Thailand offers a range of resources for tourism businesses, including marketing and promotional campaigns, industry research and insights, and visitor information services.

Visit Orlando

Visit Orlando is the tourist board for Orlando, Florida, promoting the city’s theme parks, resorts, and family-friendly attractions. Their focus is on marketing the city as a top destination for families seeking fun and excitement. Visit Orlando offers a range of resources for tourism businesses, including marketing and promotional campaigns, industry research and insights, and visitor information services.

These examples illustrate the range of tourist boards operating around the world, each with its own unique focus and approach to promoting tourism.

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What Does a Tourism Board Do?

By Michael Ferguson

A tourism board, also known as a destination marketing organization (DMO), is responsible for promoting a specific location as a travel destination. The primary goal of a tourism board is to increase the number of visitors to an area and generate revenue for local businesses.

But what exactly does a tourism board do? Let’s dive into the details.

Marketing and Promotion

One of the primary responsibilities of a tourism board is marketing and promotion. This includes creating advertising campaigns, developing promotional materials, and managing social media accounts. The goal is to showcase all the unique attractions and experiences that a destination has to offer and entice potential visitors to book their trip.

Sales and Public Relations

Tourism boards also work closely with travel agents, tour operators, and other industry professionals to sell their destination as a travel package. They attend trade shows, organize familiarization tours for travel agents, and host media events to showcase the best of what their location has to offer.

Visitor Services

Once visitors arrive at their destination, the tourism board is often responsible for providing information about local attractions, events, dining options, and accommodations. They may operate visitor centers or have staff available at key locations throughout the area.

Tourism Development

Tourism boards also play an important role in developing new attractions, events, and infrastructure that will appeal to travelers. This includes working with local businesses to improve the overall visitor experience and investing in new projects that will attract more tourists.

• Collaboration:
• Tourism boards often work in collaboration with other organizations such as chambers of commerce or economic development agencies.
• Fundraising:
• Tourism boards may also be responsible for fundraising efforts to support their marketing and promotional activities.
• Research and Analysis:
• Tourism boards conduct research and analysis to better understand visitor demographics, trends, and preferences. This information is used to inform marketing strategies and develop new initiatives.

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• Travel Tips

How To Work With Tourism Boards

Published: December 12, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Stacee Karl

• Plan Your Trip
• Sustainability

Introduction

Welcome to the exciting world of travel marketing and partnership building! In this guide, we will delve into the intricacies of working with tourism boards to elevate your travel business to new heights. Tourism boards play a pivotal role in promoting destinations, attracting visitors, and fostering sustainable tourism practices. Understanding how to effectively collaborate with these entities can significantly enhance the visibility and success of your travel enterprise.

As a travel enthusiast and industry professional, you recognize the immense value of forging strong partnerships within the tourism sector. By establishing meaningful connections with tourism boards, you gain access to a wealth of resources, insights, and promotional opportunities that can propel your brand to the forefront of the travel landscape.

Throughout this comprehensive guide, we will explore the multifaceted nature of working with tourism boards, from building relationships and collaborating on marketing campaigns to leveraging resources and measuring the impact of these strategic partnerships. By the end of this journey, you will be equipped with the knowledge and strategies to navigate the dynamic realm of tourism board collaborations with confidence and finesse.

So, buckle up and get ready to embark on a transformative exploration of how to effectively work with tourism boards to amplify the reach and influence of your travel business. Let's dive into the intricacies of this symbiotic relationship and uncover the keys to unlocking a world of possibilities in the realm of travel marketing and promotion.

Understanding the Role of Tourism Boards

Before delving into the strategies for collaboration, it’s essential to grasp the pivotal role that tourism boards play in the travel industry. Tourism boards, also known as destination marketing organizations (DMOs), serve as the primary entities responsible for promoting and enhancing the appeal of a specific destination or region. Their overarching goal is to attract visitors, drive tourism revenue, and cultivate a positive image of the locale they represent.

These organizations function as the custodians of a destination’s brand, leveraging various marketing channels and initiatives to showcase its unique attractions, cultural heritage, and recreational offerings. By harnessing the power of storytelling, captivating imagery, and targeted promotional campaigns, tourism boards strive to position their respective destinations as must-visit travel hotspots.

Moreover, tourism boards undertake vital roles in advocating for sustainable tourism practices, preserving natural landscapes, and fostering community engagement. They often collaborate with local businesses, hospitality providers, and tour operators to ensure a cohesive and compelling visitor experience while prioritizing environmental conservation and cultural authenticity.

By comprehending the multifaceted responsibilities of tourism boards, travel businesses can gain valuable insights into the dynamics of destination promotion and the underlying motivations driving these organizations. This understanding forms the bedrock for establishing mutually beneficial partnerships and aligning collaborative efforts with the overarching objectives of tourism boards.

As we venture deeper into this guide, we will uncover the strategies for engaging with tourism boards in a manner that resonates with their mission, amplifies the allure of the destination, and fosters sustainable tourism practices. With this foundational knowledge in place, you are poised to navigate the intricacies of working hand-in-hand with tourism boards to elevate your travel business to unprecedented levels of success.

Building Relationships with Tourism Boards

Establishing strong and enduring relationships with tourism boards is a cornerstone of successful collaboration in the travel industry. The process of cultivating these connections begins with proactive engagement and a genuine commitment to understanding and supporting the objectives of the tourism board. Here are essential steps to foster meaningful relationships with tourism boards:

• Research and Familiarization: Before reaching out to a tourism board, invest time in researching the destination and the board’s existing initiatives. Understand the unique selling points of the locale, its target visitor demographics, and the current marketing strategies employed by the tourism board. This knowledge will demonstrate your genuine interest in the destination and facilitate more meaningful conversations.
• Personalized Outreach: When initiating contact with the tourism board, personalize your communication to reflect a clear understanding of their mission and goals. Express your enthusiasm for collaborating and emphasize how your partnership can contribute to the board’s objectives, whether it’s promoting off-the-beaten-path experiences, supporting sustainable tourism practices, or targeting specific visitor segments.
• Value-driven Propositions: Present compelling proposals that outline the mutual benefits of collaboration. Highlight how your expertise, resources, or promotional platforms can augment the tourism board’s efforts in showcasing the destination. Whether it involves co-creating engaging content, hosting familiarization trips, or leveraging your audience to amplify the board’s messaging, emphasize the value you bring to the table.
• Consistent Engagement: Cultivate ongoing communication and engagement with the tourism board. Attend industry events, participate in destination-specific webinars, and seek opportunities to showcase your commitment to the destination’s success. This consistent engagement reinforces your dedication to the partnership and fosters trust and rapport with the board’s representatives.

By approaching the process of relationship building with authenticity, empathy, and a genuine desire to contribute to the destination’s growth, you lay the groundwork for a collaborative partnership that transcends mere transactional interactions. As we progress through this guide, we will delve into the subsequent stages of collaboration, where these foundational relationships will serve as the catalyst for impactful joint initiatives with tourism boards.

Collaborating on Marketing Campaigns

Once a solid rapport has been established with a tourism board, the stage is set for collaborative marketing campaigns that amplify the visibility and appeal of the destination. Joint marketing initiatives offer a synergistic platform for travel businesses and tourism boards to co-create compelling narratives, leverage diverse marketing channels, and reach a broader audience. Here are key considerations for effective collaboration on marketing campaigns:

• Co-created Content: Collaborate with the tourism board to develop engaging and authentic content that showcases the destination’s unique experiences, attractions, and cultural tapestry. This could involve producing destination guides, immersive videos, or blog features that resonate with the target audience and convey the essence of the locale.
• Amplified Reach: Leverage the tourism board’s promotional channels, such as social media platforms, official websites, and visitor guides, to amplify the reach of your collaborative content. By tapping into the board’s established audience base, you can extend the visibility of your brand while contributing to the board’s overarching marketing objectives.
• Storytelling Alignment: Ensure that the narratives woven into the marketing campaigns align with the destination’s brand identity and the tourism board’s messaging. Authentic storytelling that reflects the local culture, heritage, and sustainable tourism ethos resonates deeply with audiences and reinforces the destination’s appeal.
• Targeted Campaigns: Tailor marketing campaigns to cater to specific visitor segments identified by the tourism board. Whether it’s adventure seekers, cultural enthusiasts, or eco-conscious travelers, aligning your promotional efforts with the board’s strategic focus enhances the relevance and impact of the campaigns.
• Performance Measurement: Collaborate with the tourism board to establish key performance indicators (KPIs) that gauge the success of the marketing campaigns. By jointly evaluating the reach, engagement metrics, and conversion rates, both parties can refine future initiatives and optimize the impact of their collaborative endeavors.

Through seamless collaboration on marketing campaigns, travel businesses can harness the storytelling prowess and promotional reach of tourism boards to elevate their brand visibility and connect with a broader audience. As we move forward, we will explore additional facets of partnership with tourism boards, delving into the strategic utilization of resources and support provided by these influential entities.

Leveraging Resources and Support from Tourism Boards

Collaborating with tourism boards presents a wealth of opportunities to leverage their resources and support in bolstering the promotional endeavors of your travel business. These entities are equipped with a diverse array of assets, insights, and industry connections that can significantly enhance your marketing initiatives and visitor engagement. Here’s how you can effectively leverage the resources and support provided by tourism boards:

• Access to Insider Knowledge: Tap into the tourism board’s in-depth knowledge of the destination, including emerging travel trends, upcoming events, and hidden gems. By aligning your offerings with the board’s insights, you can curate compelling experiences that resonate with visitors and align with the destination’s strategic direction.
• Collateral and Visual Assets: Utilize the high-quality visual assets, including photography, videos, and promotional materials, available through the tourism board. These resources can enrich your marketing collateral, website content, and social media presence, infusing it with captivating visuals that convey the allure of the destination.
• Industry Connections and Partnerships: Leverage the tourism board’s network of local businesses, tour operators, and hospitality providers to forge strategic partnerships. Collaborative packages, exclusive offers, and joint promotions can be crafted in conjunction with the board’s partners, enhancing the overall visitor experience and fostering a sense of community engagement.
• Promotional Support: Capitalize on the tourism board’s promotional platforms and campaigns to amplify the visibility of your travel business. Whether it’s featuring in official visitor guides, participating in destination-specific events, or being showcased on the board’s digital channels, such exposure can significantly elevate your brand’s recognition among potential visitors.
• Training and Educational Opportunities: Engage with the tourism board’s training programs, workshops, and educational resources to enhance your understanding of the destination’s unique selling points and visitor expectations. This knowledge empowers you to tailor your offerings and marketing strategies in alignment with the destination’s distinct appeal.

By strategically leveraging the resources and support extended by tourism boards, travel businesses can enrich their offerings, expand their reach, and deliver compelling experiences that resonate with visitors. As we progress, we will delve into the pivotal aspect of measuring the impact of these collaborative efforts, allowing for informed decision-making and continuous refinement of the partnership strategies.

Measuring the Impact of Tourism Board Partnerships

Effectively measuring the impact of partnerships with tourism boards is essential for gauging the success of collaborative endeavors and refining future strategies. By employing robust metrics and evaluation frameworks, travel businesses can glean valuable insights into the reach, engagement, and conversion rates attributed to their collaborative initiatives with tourism boards. Here are key considerations for measuring the impact of these partnerships:

• Performance Metrics: Establish clear key performance indicators (KPIs) that align with the objectives of the collaborative campaigns and initiatives. These metrics may include website traffic, social media engagement, lead generation, and conversion rates. By quantifying the impact of the partnership, you can assess the tangible outcomes and return on investment.
• Visitor Feedback and Surveys: Solicit feedback from visitors who have engaged with the collaborative content or experiences resulting from the partnership. Understanding their sentiments, preferences, and behavioral patterns provides qualitative insights into the resonance of the campaigns and the effectiveness of the collaborative storytelling.
• Attribution Analysis: Employ attribution models to discern the contribution of the tourism board partnerships to the overall visitor acquisition and conversion funnel. By tracking the customer journey and attributing specific touchpoints to the collaborative initiatives, you can quantify the influence of the partnerships on visitor decision-making.
• Comparative Analysis: Conduct comparative analyses of performance metrics before, during, and after the collaborative campaigns. This longitudinal assessment unveils the incremental impact of the partnerships on brand visibility, audience engagement, and conversion outcomes, providing a comprehensive view of the collaborative efficacy.
• Post-Campaign Evaluation: Collaborate with the tourism board to conduct post-campaign evaluations, reflecting on the successes, challenges, and learnings gleaned from the collaborative initiatives. This reflective analysis informs future strategies and fosters a culture of continuous improvement in the collaborative endeavors.

By diligently measuring the impact of partnerships with tourism boards, travel businesses can refine their collaborative strategies, optimize resource allocation, and demonstrate the tangible value derived from these symbiotic relationships. This data-driven approach empowers both parties to iteratively enhance their collaborative initiatives and drive sustained success in destination promotion and visitor engagement.

Congratulations on embarking on this enlightening journey through the intricacies of working with tourism boards to elevate your travel business. As we conclude this comprehensive guide, it’s imperative to reflect on the transformative potential of collaborative partnerships with tourism boards and the enduring impact they can have on your brand’s visibility, visitor engagement, and destination promotion.

By understanding the pivotal role of tourism boards in destination marketing, you have gained insights into the multifaceted responsibilities of these entities and the strategic significance of aligning your collaborative efforts with their overarching objectives. Building strong relationships with tourism boards, rooted in authenticity, personalized engagement, and value-driven propositions, forms the bedrock for enduring and impactful partnerships.

Collaborating on marketing campaigns with tourism boards unlocks a realm of storytelling possibilities, amplified reach, and targeted engagement with diverse visitor segments. By co-creating compelling content and aligning narratives with the destination’s brand identity, you have the opportunity to captivate audiences and contribute to the enduring allure of the locale.

Leveraging the resources and support provided by tourism boards empowers you to enrich your offerings, expand your reach, and deliver authentic experiences that resonate with visitors. By tapping into insider knowledge, visual assets, industry connections, and promotional platforms, you can elevate your brand’s recognition and foster a deeper connection with potential visitors.

Measuring the impact of your partnerships with tourism boards equips you with valuable data-driven insights to refine your strategies, optimize resource allocation, and demonstrate the tangible value derived from these collaborative endeavors. By quantifying the reach, engagement, and conversion outcomes, you can iteratively enhance the efficacy of your collaborative initiatives and drive sustained success in destination promotion.

As you navigate the dynamic landscape of travel marketing and partnership building, remember that the journey with tourism boards is not merely transactional but rooted in a shared passion for showcasing the beauty and allure of destinations. By fostering enduring relationships, co-creating captivating narratives, and leveraging resources in a purposeful manner, you are poised to leave a lasting imprint on the travel landscape while contributing to the sustainable growth of destinations and communities.

Armed with the knowledge and strategies gleaned from this guide, you are well-equipped to embark on a transformative trajectory, leveraging the power of collaboration with tourism boards to shape compelling visitor experiences, amplify your brand’s influence, and contribute to the enduring allure of travel destinations. Embrace the opportunities that lie ahead, and may your collaborative journey with tourism boards be filled with creativity, impact, and shared success.

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Tourist board

What is a tourist board.

In the dynamic world of vacation and short-term rentals, understanding the role and benefits of tourist boards is a key factor for success. Tourist boards , also known as tourism boards or authorities, are pivotal in shaping the tourism landscape of a region. Their primary mission? To put their area on the travel map, benefiting local economies and businesses, including your rental properties.

How do tourist boards help property managers in short term rentals?

For short-term rental property managers, tourist boards are a key resource. They boost destination appeal, driving more bookings. These boards offer market insights and networking opportunities, helping managers stay competitive and form valuable local partnerships. Engaging with them can significantly enhance a property’s market presence.

What does a tourist board do?

Tourist boards serve as the backbone of regional tourism strategies, offering a range of services and initiatives that extend far beyond mere promotion. These organizations are integral in shaping a traveler’s experience and perception of a destination. Their roles include:

• Strategic Marketing and Promotion: They create comprehensive marketing campaigns that highlight the unique attractions and experiences of the area. This can range from digital advertising to organizing press trips for influencers and journalists.
• Resource and Information Center: Tourist boards provide a wealth of information, not just to travelers but also to local businesses, including detailed guides, maps, and event calendars.
• Supporting Business Growth: By offering training, workshops, and networking opportunities, they empower local businesses, including vacation rentals, to enhance their offerings and service quality.
• Cultural Advocacy: A crucial but often overlooked aspect is their role in preserving and promoting local culture and traditions, making sure that tourism growth does not come at the expense of the region’s heritage.
• Crisis Management: In times of crises, such as natural disasters or pandemics, tourist boards play a key role in crisis management and recovery efforts, helping to rebuild and reassure both travelers and local businesses.

Types of tourist boards

Understanding the different levels at which tourist boards operate is crucial for property managers, as each type offers unique opportunities and resources:

• National Tourist Boards: These organizations focus on promoting a country as a whole. They are typically involved in large-scale international marketing and are a valuable resource for understanding broader travel trends and national tourism policies.
• Regional Tourist Boards: Focusing on specific regions within a country, these boards offer more localized insights and marketing efforts. They can be particularly helpful for property managers in understanding the unique selling points of their region and how to align with regional tourism strategies.
• City or Local Tourist Boards: The most granular level, local tourist boards concentrate on individual cities or towns. They offer the most direct and relevant support and information for property managers, including details about local events, attractions, and marketing initiatives that can impact the demand for short-term rentals.

How do you get sponsored by the Tourism Board?

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• Craft a Compelling Proposal: Highlight how your property aligns with the board’s goals and can add value to the region’s tourism.
• Engage and Network: Connect with board members, attend local tourism events, and be an active participant in the community.
• Showcase Your Unique Offerings: Demonstrate how your property stands out in the local tourism scene.
• Fulfill Specific Criteria: Ensure you meet the board’s requirements, which may include sustainability practices or community engagement.
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When you close your eyes and envision paradise, what do you see? Sapphire waters lapping against powdery white beaches? Lush stretches of verdant tropical vegetation stretching to the horizon? Endless warm sunshine giving way to stained-glass sunsets that paint the night sky with brilliant hues? These images aren’t just a dream here. They’re our way of life in the British Virgin Islands — a pristine archipelago of more than 50 discrete isles, comprising a cradle of Caribbean culture that’s unique in all the world. Drop anchor here and experience the magic.

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Your visit to the British Virgin Islands is entirely what you choose to make it and anything you wish it to be. So if you have any questions regarding the possibilities represented by a BVI getaway, we’re available to assist you. We have the inside line on all of the essential local information, like hotels, restaurants, activities and much more. Feel free to reach out to us, and we’ll gladly answer any questions you may have regarding the logistics of spending time in our pristine piece of paradise.

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U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board

About the ttab.

The United States Travel and Tourism Advisory Board (TTAB) serves as the advisory body to the Secretary of Commerce on matters relating to the travel and tourism industry in the United States. The Board advises the Secretary on government policies and programs that affect the U.S. travel and tourism industry, offers counsel on current and emerging issues, and provides a forum for discussing and proposing solutions to industry-related problems.

Past Boards have presented Secretaries of Commerce with advice on a wide range of policies and issues facing the travel and tourism including travel facilitation, visa policy, infrastructure, aviation security, research, energy policy, and economic sustainability, as well as, valuable advice on the National Travel and Tourism Strategy. Board recommendations will be shared on this site.

The Board is comprised of up to thirty-two members appointed by the Secretary of Commerce. Members represent companies and organizations in the travel and tourism industry from a broad range of products and services, company sizes and geographic locations. Members serve, at the pleasure of the Secretary, typically for a two-year term. The Board was originally chartered in 2003, and because of the Department’s need for the ongoing advice from industry representatives, has been re-chartered 10 times, most recently in 2023. Under the Visit America Act, the TTAB is now a congressionally-mandated federal advisory board.

Members includes representatives of state and regional economic development teams, businesses, and organizations. 

The Deputy Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism serves as the Board’s Executive Director. The National Travel and Tourism Office serves as the Executive Secretariat for the Board. If you have questions or comments, please email  [email protected].

The National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO) creates a positive climate for growth in travel and tourism by reducing institutional barriers to tourism, administers joint marketing efforts, and provides official travel and tourism statistics.

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NATIONAL TOURIST BOARDS AND THEIR ROLE

National Tourist Boards are national tourist organizations founded with a view to promoting and creating the identity, and to enhance the reputation of tourism at national level. Their mission also includes the planning and implementation of a common strategy and the conception of its promotion, proposal and the performance of promotional activities of mutual interest for all subjects in tourism in the country and abroad, as well as raising the overall quality of the whole range of tourist services on offer in the country.

Most S ignificant Tasks

• to encompass the total tourist offer at national level;
• structuring and conducting operational market research for the promotion of tourism at national level;
• designing programmes and promotion plans of tourist product at national level;
• organizing, conducting and implementing all business operations concerning the promotion of the tourist product of the country;
• analysis and appraisal of the purposefulness and efficacy of implemented promotional activities;
• establishing a national tourist information system;
• performing global and tourist information activities;
• providing and coordinating the incentives of all the Tourist Boards, as well as all economic and other tourism subjects which operate either directly or indirectly, in order to improve and promote tourism in the country;
• establishing tourist representative offices and branch offices in foreign countries, and the organization and supervision of their work;
• cooperation with national tourist boards in foreign countries and with specialized international regional tourist organizations;
• according to reports received from county tourist boards, analysis and evaluation of activities by plans and programmes of the established tasks and the roles of the tourist boards' system;
• taking necessary measures and planning activities for the development and promotion of tourism in the less developed areas of the country.

Typically the management bodies involved within a National Tourist Board are: the Parliament, the Tourist Board, the Auditing Committee, and the President. The duties of the President of the National Tourist Board are undertaken by the Minister for Tourism. Activities are based upon an Annual Work Programme and the Financial Plan, passed by the Assembly. The organization’s revenues come from the following sources: tourist taxes, membership fees, allocations from the state budget, and other sources.

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Jamaica tourist board (jtb), public bodies.

Mission Statement

To always position destination Jamaica as the pre-eminent Caribbean tourist destination that delivers value for the People and Government of Jamaica and the tourism industry stakeholders.

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica's national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. The JTB is a public company governed by a Board of Directors, appointed by the Minister of Tourism. The Director of Tourism, also appointed by the Minister, is the administrative head of the organization and is responsible for the day-to-day activities of the JTB.

The JTB is responsible for the worldwide tourism marketing and promotion for Jamaica. Its mandate has been to promote Jamaica as a preferred travel destination; identify new and emerging consumer groups; cultivate new relationships with travel partners and disseminate timely and useful marketing information to its offices and travel partners worldwide. The Jamaica Tourist Board is the most preferred point of contact for persons travelling to Jamaica. The organization markets the uniqueness and diversity of destination JAMAICA through creative programmes and advertisements worldwide. Throughout the years, the JTB has been recognized for its exceptional leadership and outstanding service with accolades from industry and trade partners both regionally and internationally.

JTB offices are located in Kingston, Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and London. Representative offices are located in Berlin (Germany), Barcelona (Spain), Rome (Italy), Amsterdam (The Netherlands) and Tokyo (Japan).

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Board of Directors

Mr. John Lynch - Chairman Mr. John Byles - Deputy Chairman Mrs. Nicola Madden-Greig - Director Mr. Bertram Wright - Director Mr. Adam Stewart - Director Mr. Clifton Reader - Director Mr. Josef Forstmayr - Director Mr. Fred Smith - Director Mr. Philipp Hofer - Director Ms. Hyacinth Lightbourne - Director Mrs. Tanikie McClarthy Allen - Director Mr. Donovan White (ex officio) - Director of Tourism

Visit the JTB at: http://www.visitjamaica.com/

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We benefit Scotland by growing the tourism industry. We want Scotland to be recognised in the global marketplace for its wealth of incredible features.

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The German National Tourist Board

On behalf of the German federal government, the GNTB has been working internationally to promote Germany as a travel destination for more than 60 years. It communicates the diverse appeal of the country to a worldwide market, thereby promoting a strong and attractive brand – 'Destination Germany'.

The GNTB plays an important role in the promotion of Germany as a travel destination on the international market. Its activities include the development of new marketing strategies and concepts based on specific themes, events and attractions and also bringing together and optimising the diverse marketing activities of partners in the German travel industry. It also takes an active role in the form of far-ranging sales activities in new growth markets. In this respect, the GNTB relies on its close collaboration with the German travel industry, partners from commerce and trade associations.

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The German National Tourist Board (GNTB) is the central organisation for marketing Germany as a travel destination. We aim to communicate the beauty, diversity, romance and vibrancy of the country to people of all ages in Germany and abroad. Germany is currently one of the most popular international travel destinations. Below you can find detailed information about training, work placements and jobs at the GNTB.

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Austria – Lebensgefühl. Experience the Joy of Life in The Heart of Europe

Feel the ease, the serenity, the love for great food and art and culture, the charming wit, the welcoming atmosphere – feel the Austrian Lebensgefühl

Discover the Entire Country

Discover austria.

Explore Austria at its best with these concise itineraries. Whether it's iconic landmarks or hidden gems, culinary delights or art and culture, discover how to make the most out of your stay.

Vienna in 3 Days

Salzburg in 48 hours, innsbruck in 3 days, graz in 3 days, our hotel reccomendations, austria hotel collection.

Looking for a charming family-run hotel, a luxury spa resort, or a cosy private apartment? Here is our curated list featuring great hotels in Austria's cities and on the countryside.

A Summer in Austria - Your Daily Dose of 'Lebensgefühl'

Nature, mountains and lakes, cultural treasures and thousands of moments of indulgence are the setting for a very special attitude you'll experience during a summer holiday in Austria: A light-hearted feeling, that comes to life beautifully when connecting to the locals.

Lebensgefühl Austria - hiking with the family Austrian National Tourist Office / Marko Mestrovic media_content.tooltip.skipped

A Holiday in Austria puts a Smile on your Face

An experience, an encounter, sometimes just a moment - and the new somehow feels familiar. In Austria, this atmosphere is literally in the air: A sensation that, in nature, feels light and free, full of fun and joie de vivre. A feeling that, while connecting with the people who live here, feels genuine.

Mountains, water, energetic places, cultural treasures - that is Austria for you. As well as cooling off in a crystal-clear lake, the gratifying feeling when conquering a summit, and a snack at a mountain hut. Austria is the freedom of an open-air festival, and the cosiness of a wine tavern. All places and moments, that make it easy to clear your head, to be amazed, to feel the vitality. The spark is quickly ignited. Anyone who is a guest here becomes part of this very special attitude to life.

Experience Austria's Nature

These boots are made for walking, the most beautiful swimming lakes, i want to ride my bicycle, we are family, hiking with children.

Exploring mosses, watching butterflies, feeding goats ... Children are curious. Austria's hiking routes are just right for an unforgettable hiking day.

Moments of Cultural Pleasure

Museums and galleries, embrace austria's guilty pleasures, wine culture in austria, culinary pit-stops in austria, time for easter egg hunting, easter in austria.

Experience Austria's unique traditions and visit one (or more!) of our colourful Easter markets.

Which Summer Activity do you Fancy?

Walking and hiking in austria, cycling and biking in austria, lakes and nature in austria, trailrunning: a wonderful family experience, discover city life, city breaks in summer - your cultural 'lebensgefühl'.

City trips in Austrias cultural summer hit right at the heart. Because Austrias cities surprise, make curious – and sometimes even are addictive. #feelAustria

Austria is a country rich with history, beautiful regions, imperial cities and year long activities.

In Harmony with Austria

When you spend your holiday in Austria, you will experience that one moment – the moment that you’ll remember for years to come, the moment you’ll return to in your head when life gets stressful.

Active in the Outdoors

It's the small moments that make us happy: The pride on our best friend's face when finally reaching the summit. Or at night, falling asleep with achy legs but a smile on our face. That's what life in the outdoors is all about.

Wellbeing & Relaxation in Austria's Nature

Nature soothes our minds and bodies. From the healing effect of waterfalls and trees to the beauty of cultural landscapes, mountains, and waters, Austria is filled with natural gems.

Why Forest Bathing Can Make You Healthier and Happier, According to Science

Why spas and thermal baths are so good for us, culinary discovery trip through austria.

Austria owes its culinary identity to both its location in the heart of Europe and its remarkable history. Austria stands for openness to varied influences and a love for refining existing traditions at the highest level.

9 restaurants and mountain huts with a view

Dream career: organic farmer, austrian culture, artists & masterpieces.

Let us dive into Austria’s arts and culture sphere and discover fascinating stories of the masters and personae that led the way.

Hedy Lamarr, Hollywood Goddess and Lady Bluetooth

Gustav klimt loved art, women and lake attersee, our hotel recommendations, find a city hotel, find an alpine stay, share feedback for a chance to win a special holiday experience.

We value your feedback! Take part in our brief survey to be in with the chance of winning one of five very special holiday experiences in Austria. Click here to take part.

It goes without saying that your data is processed with complete anonymity. Read the terms and conditions here.

Insiders' Tips

Austria's quirkiest city tours, austria’s prettiest places, according to austrians, austria’s top sights, top 5 austrian dishes you need to try, events in austria, practical travel information, about austria, brexit and travelling to austria, how to get to and around austria, what are you interested in, family fun in austria, round trips in austria, cities and culture in austria, skiing and winter in austria, austrian cultural stories, famous austrians.

From Mozart and Sisi to Hedy Lamarr – Austria's sons and daughters have left their mark across music, art, science, politics, and sport. Find out which famous personalities originate from or lived in Austria and follow in their footsteps.

Passport & Visa for Austria

Vienna pass: your personal key to the city, travel experiences designed by experts, austrian – the charming way to fly.

Enjoy Austrian hospitality and multi-awarded service already on board, with Austrian Airlines from 130 cities around the world direct to Vienna and other Austrian cities.

Explore Austria By Train

Travelling through Austria by train is reliable, comfortable, and convenient. Relax, sit back, and enjoy your vacation, the Austrian Railways takes you to Austria’s most beautiful places.

Have a Taste of Austria

[{ "@context": "http://schema.org/", "@type": "imageobject", "url": "/static/img/icon/recipe.png", "contenturl": "/static/img/icon/recipe.png", "caption": "favourite austrian recipes", "isfamilyfriendly": true }] favourite austrian recipes.

Craving a taste of Austria? Why not don your apron and recreate your favourite regional specialities at home? Here is a list of some of Austria's most delicious all-time classics.

About Iceland

Visa information, geography of iceland, general information, the northern lights, volcanic eruptions, sustainable travel, iceland academy, plan your trip, how to get there, accommodation, things to do, map your journey, getting around, visitor numbers, carbon footprint, destinations, the regions, scenic routes, national parks, trip suggestions, towns & villages, inspiration, food and beverages, lbgt+ travel, escape the ordinary.

Read handpicked articles to get you inspired by Iceland

16 places of Character and Charm to eat for Every Corner of Iceland

Atmospheric eateries, located across Iceland, that can at least claim to wear and tear Michelin tires.  

Swimming pool culture in Iceland

Reykjavík Weekend Getaway

Iceland travel advice - from one tourist to another

LGBT+ Travel in Iceland

Volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula

How to Get to Iceland

It’s snow outside: Winter activities for beginners and pros 

Minibreak North Iceland

Reykjavík on the Rocks - Five geosites in the Capital Region

Nature's Alchemy: Exploring Iceland's geosites

Iceland for lovebirds

How to capture the Northern lights with a smartphone

6 Unforgettable riding tours in Iceland

Planning a trip to Iceland

The Reykjavík Triangle of Hot Resorts

Volcanoes of Iceland

What to wear in Iceland

New destinations in 2024

Mapping the best places for food and drink in Reykjavik

How to practice your hobby in Iceland

A day-trip from Reykjavík: Discover the Whale Fjord

Key Locations for Viking History in Iceland

Iceland's Three UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Incredible travel experiences money can indeed buy

Around Iceland in 14 days

Sustainability travel tips

Dalvík and Around: Ride Fjords and Moutains In Every Season

Safe travel in Iceland

Arctic Coast Way

The Diamond Circle

Vatnajökull National Park

Famous film sights in Iceland

VOLCANIC ACTIVITY ON THE REYKJANES PENINSULA

Since 2021, the Reykjanes Peninsula has witnessed a surge in seismic activity, including several volcanic eruptions. Despite this, Iceland has remained a safe and open destination for travelers. For a detailed look into the recent volcanic activities and their safety implications, the Icelandic Meteorological Office offers insights through this informative video.

Embark on the journey of a lifetime in Iceland!

With our new interactive map feature, you can easily plan every step of your adventure. From cozy accommodations to unforgettable activities, the possibilities are endless. Dream big, plan smart, and chart your path with our personalized itinerary feature. Make the most of every moment in Iceland!

Take the Icelandic Pledge

Are you visiting Iceland? Be a responsible tourist and take the Icelandic pledge. Encourage your friends to do the same!

Looking for things to do?

Regions of Iceland

Iceland is typically divided into 7 different geographical regions. Each region differs slightly in respect to culture and landscapes, but are uniquely Icelandic. Find your favorite part of Iceland.

Iceland is a popular travel destination. Sometimes, certain places can be busier than others. Skip the hectic tourist traffic at the most popular destinations and plan your trip to make the most of your time in Iceland. Use our tourist counter to see peak visitor times and plan accordingly. 

Appreciate our towns & villages

Did you know that there are over 100 towns and villages to explore throughout Iceland? We encourage you to stop and look into these charming, beautiful, and often quirky places. History, art, nature, local cuisine, and year-round swimming pools abound. You might be surprised at what you find!

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Stay connected and find out what is happening in Iceland.

Cultural News and Events

Cuba Tourist Board of Canada

• REQUIREMENTS FOR CANADIANS PASSENGERS TRAVELING TO CUBA (updated as of Nov 2, 2023)
• Travelling from Canada to Cuba, you just need a valid Canadian passport, if your passport is from another country, you need your Canadian resident card or a work or study permit that includes a multiple-entry permit attached to your passport. For Cuba, you need the tourist card (the tourist card is included in your plane ticket and is issued by the airline on board)
• All passengers arriving to Cuba from a direct flight from Canada, do not need to present a vaccination passport.
• Medical insurance is required for Cuba, medical insurance must cover any type of medical emergency including COVID-19, so in case of a medical emergency the tourist is responsible for paying the costs, for this reason, Cuba suggests having medical insurance for all types of medical emergencies including covid. If you are unable to obtain insurance in Canada, you can purchase medical insurance in Cuba at the airport or visit www.cubatravel.cu. For more information on what the insurance includes, contact the representative at the Insurance desk at the airport in Cuba.
• Since January 1, 2022, travelers must complete the customs and health declaration form, this is done online and the website to visit is: https://www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu . All travelers must complete this information online 48 hours before traveling to Cuba. Once the form is completed, you will receive a QR code by email. You must show an electronic or printed version of the QR code to the authorities upon arrival. If you have any problems and you can't fill out the form online because you don't have internet access, the printed form will be available on arrival at the airport in Cuba to fill it out.
• CURRENCY: The local currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP). The convertible peso has been discontinued and is no longer accepted in Cuba. US and CAD dollars are  accepted anywhere in Cuba.  At tourist areas which includes hotels, restaurants and shopping malls, payment is only accepted with debit/visa cards or visa / mastercard credit cards from Canadian banks . Customers who do not have a credit card can buy a prepaid card in Cuba at the airport or at any money exchange kiosks at hotels . Payments outside the tourist areas are all in Cuban pesos (CUP); We recommend exchanging Canadian dollars for pesos as needed and only if you plan to travel OUTSIDE of tourist areas, since you will not be able to change the remaining pesos into Canadian dollars at the end of the holiday.

For additional information, please contact Cuba Tourist Board at:

E-mail: [email protected] TL : 416 362 0700

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StarTribune

Minnesota tourism returns to form.

Opinion editor's note: Editorials represent the opinions of the Star Tribune Editorial Board, which operates independently from the newsroom.

Minnesota tourism is bouncing back from pandemic-era lows — good news for the leisure and hospitality industry, the state's fourth-largest.

In 2022, the state recorded about 77 million visitors — a level last seen in 2019, according to Explore Minnesota, the state's tourism agency. And while 2023 figures have not been fully calculated, they are projected to be even better.

When those numbers are up, the state and its citizens are beneficiaries. The 2022 visitors (counting both those from outside the state and those traveling for leisure and entertainment within it) generated more than $13 billion in economic impact.

Minnesota's leisure and hospitality sectors have had about 250,000 employees working in resorts, hotels, restaurants, stadiums and culture and arts venues. The COVID-19 pandemic reduced those numbers by 23,000 workers compared with 2019.

But the welcome signs of recovery have come in increased average monthly hotel occupancy rates, and in the number of passengers traveling through Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Air travelers dropped to less than 15 million in 2020 but increased to 31 million in 2022, according to officials. That's still below the nearly 40 million who came through the airport in 2019.

An Explore Minnesota survey last summer found that most tourism and hospitality businesses reported being financially stable or growing, leading the agency to project a 2% increase in the number of 2023 trips over the previous year. The agency's estimates show a modest increase in visitors to and through central and southern Minnesota during the year and a slight decrease in those visiting the seven-county metro area and the northwestern reaches of the state.

But the overall encouraging news must be tempered by the losses experienced by tourism businesses that depend on winter weather. During our 2023-24 "winter that wasn't," northeastern Minnesota, which includes the North Shore and surrounding areas, saw a drop in traffic of about 6.4%.

A March 2024 Explore Minnesota survey of 323 businesses or organizations from across the state found that 91% of those groups reported negative impacts from the warmer, nearly snowless winter.

To assist those businesses, state officials from Minnesota, Michigan and Wisconsin asked the U.S. Small Business Administration to expand economic injury disaster loans for droughts to businesses that rely on winters with ice and snow. The loan program allows businesses to borrow up to $2 million to cover their losses, with no interest the first year and a lower rate after that.

And the Minnesota Legislature wisely invested $25 million for state tourism efforts, including the new "Star of the North" campaign that will help some of the regions that saw a downturn in travel.

Still, the upward trend in overall statewide tourism numbers is a welcome sign for the state's economy. As Explore Minnesota spokesperson Chris Morgan told the Star Tribune, "When we have more visitors, the local businesses benefit, the bigger businesses benefit [and] the citizens of Minnesota benefit."

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Delta is changing its boarding process

B oarding a plane can often be a frustrating experience, particularly due to the lengthy process, straining to hear boarding groups and securing an overhead bin space — all before finally settling into a seat.

However, Delta Air Lines is hoping to streamline this process by changing how it calls boarding groups.

What is Delta Air Lines’ new boarding process?

Starting May 1, Delta is rolling out numbered boarding zones, one through eight, for all flights. Passengers will receive a zone number instead of boarding groups based on airline status or fare class. However, the boarding order will remain the same, per CBS News .

This change is similar to the process the company used back in early 2019, according to CNN .

Delta said in a statement to CBS News that the “simple change” will “provide customers more clarity into the boarding sequence and make the boarding process more intuitive — especially for infrequent travelers and/or customers who might face a language barrier at the gate.”

“Numbered zones will also align more closely with our joint venture and international partners, providing international customers a more simplified, consistent experience when traveling on mixed-metal itineraries,” Delta continued to CBS News .

To see a visual of the current boarding process and the new numbered boarding zones, check out this graphic from Delta Air Lines .

Should you board a plane first or last?

Hoping to make the boarding process quicker and easier for yourself? Besides having family members, luggage, bathroom breaks and snacks all situated, considering your boarding time can significantly improve efficiency.

Deciding whether to board a plane early or late ultimately comes down to personal priorities for you and your family. On one hand, one author on The Points Guy explains his preference for boarding early when your group is called:

• Less stress (makes sure you will not miss your flight).
• Available space in the overhead bins for luggage.
• More time to get settled in.
• Time to sanitize the area you’re sitting in.

In comparison, Lonely Planet spoke to individuals about why they board planes last:

• Bypass stressful and crowded lines.
• Have more leg room and time to stretch before sitting in a tight space on the plane.
• There are usually a few spots left in overhead bins. If not, the crew will gate-check the bag.

Why is boarding a plane so inefficient?

According to CNBC , during the 1970s, Southwest Airlines, for example, had an average turn time of 10 minutes, from the plane’s arrival at the gate to its departure. However, in present times, this figure has extended to approximately 45 to 55 minutes.

New York Magazine found reasons why airline boarding proves inefficient:

• Size of overhead bins: Increased checked bag fees, leading to more passengers placing baggage in overhead bins.
• Boarding groups: Airlines may have six to 10 distinct groups to board at separate times.
• Boarding the plane front to back.

Jason Steffan, an associate professor of physics at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, studied how to make airplane boarding better, per USA Today .

His computer model analyzed millions of boarding methods and found the fastest one: Passengers in window seats board first, followed by those in middle seats and then aisle seats. However, this approach doesn’t account for families staying together or accommodations for disabled passengers, according to USA Today .

Noting this “more efficient” way is unlikely to be adopted, Steffan suggested other options: Stop trying to get individuals on in a certain order and put carry-on bags away faster, per USA Today .

35 Best Toys and Gifts for 5-Year-Olds

Unique, educational and everything in between.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

"Around age 5, kids are solving more complex problems and developing more critical thinking skills, so more elaborate construction toys are perfect," says Jacque Bogdanov, PsyD, child psychologist and founder of ChildBehaviorClinic.com . "These might include toys like marble runs, building tracks and smaller Legos. More involved art projects, like cutting and gluing, art kits or easy how-to-draw books allow them to express their own interests and creativity while also practicing following multistep directions."

Whether you're looking for board games that help them hone their critical thinking skills, patience and turn-taking; educational toys like STEM sets and DIY kits or art toys that let them flex their creative muscles, the Good Housekeeping Institute can help figure out which ones are the best for kids this age. The Lab experts stay on top of toy releases all year, then call in their favorites to test them to make sure they're safe, easy to use and able to withstand the love of kindergarteners. Then they pass them along to actual 5-year-olds, who give the most important feedback of all. When it's all settled, these emerged as the best toys and gifts for 5-year-olds in 2024, including some current and former Good Housekeeping Toy Award winners .

Our top picks:

• DoodleJamz JellyPics , $10 at amazon.com
• B Is for Bananas Picture Book , $13 at amazon.com
• Skillmatics Foil Fun , $20 at amazon.com
• Crazy Forts , $60 at amazon.com
• Learning Resources Botley the Coding Robot , $65 at amazon.com

The kids loved exploring beginner science sets, building bigger and better structures, playing with fidget toys , creating masterpiece artworks and using play sets that let them use their imaginations. And who could blame them?

Skillmatics Foil Fun Animals

Kids can make their own works of art without paint, markers, crayons or glue. They just place the shining paper over foam stickers in different shapes, rub, and — poof! — the color from the foil paper magically transfers to the sticker, which they can then place on a canvas. One parent tester noted that, when she had this out at a public picnic, even strangers' children rushed over to try it out. Ages 4+

RELATED: The Good Housekeeping Best Toy Awards

Jellycat Little Candy Cane Stuffed Plush

It's never too early to snag a few holiday items in advance, and what would look better sticking out of a stocking than a smiling candy cane? (Bonus: No sugar rush.) And while it might seem odd to snuggle up with a candy cane, this plush is extremely soft. Ages 0+

Hanna Andersson Mickey Mouse Long John Pajama Set

Mickey mouse and red and green plaid — two classics that go great together. These holiday pajamas, made of comfy OEKO-TEX® certified organic cotton, comes in coordinating styles in adult and kid sizes , so you can grab that matching family photo sooner rather than later. There's even a dog version for your Pluto. Sizes 2 – 12

B Is for Bananas

A goofy banana isn't ready for bed — know any kids that can relate? Instead of sleeping, the funny fruit inserts itself into an alphabet book, changing sleepy words to more active ones. C is for cozy, for example, becomes C is for Captain Banana. Good Housekeeping Institute testers loved the silliness, and even compared it to Mo Willems. Ages 4 – 8

RELATED: The Good Housekeeping Best Kids' Book Awards

Crazy Forts

Let those architects and engineers design their own blanket forts with this set, which comes with 69 pieces (mostly rods and ball connectors). There are plans they can follow to make structures like a rocket, a castle or an igloo, or they can build whatever they like. All you have to do is add your own sheets and blankets on top. Ages 5+

Kinetic Sand Deluxe Beach Castle Play Set

Give them the best part of a day at the beach — the sand castles — without having to pack all the towels and sunscreen. This comes with two and a half pounds of perfectly moldable sand, along with all the accessories they need to build their own castles : walls, tower, doorways and tools like scoopers, cutters and diggers, which help them with their fine motor coordination. Kid testers asked to play with this one over and over. Ages 3+

DoodleJamz JellyPics

Kids (and their families) love these boards because they're quiet, but so soothing. A clear gel is filled with beads, and kids can use the included stylus or their fingers to push the beads around in the gel to augment the pictures. It comes with one double-sided background, but you can print more. Ages 5+

PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie Aircraft Carrier HQ

Anyone looking for a big gift for a PAW Patrol fan can look no further — this one really wowed our testers. Kid testers loved the impressive look of this HQ, inspired by this year's PAW Patrol: The Might Movie , and they enjoyed launching rescue vehicles from the side-by-side ramps. (A Chase figure and vehicle is included, others are sold separately.) In addition, there are tons of other details to explore, like a meteor with lights and sounds, a lookout tower and side compartments. Ages 3+

The Fun Shop Look & See Puzzle

By the time they turn 5, they're ready for more complex jigsaw puzzles with more pieces. This puzzle, featuring a fun toy-shop scene, is 72 pieces, so it presents a big enough challenge. But the fun doesn't end when the puzzle is done; there's a seek-and-find component , and the border of the image has toys that kids have to look for in the rest of the scene. Ages 5+

Playmobil My Figures: Pirates' Island

This set comes with six pirate-themed figures, along with swappable heads, arms, legs, torsos and accessories to make more than 1,000 combinations with them. They'll use their creativity to create their own characters, then set them loose in imaginative play — only to swap the pieces, make new figures and play again. In addition to the pirate-themed set, you can find My Figures sets with Magical Dance or Rescue Mission motifs. Ages 5+

Botley 2.0 Activity Set

This fun robot is a great way to introduce kids to coding without using screens. During toy testing of the previous version, kids immediately loved it right out of the box. Now the Botley "2.0" has expanded coding styles (including lights, movement and music), different interactive modes (program it to be a police car, a ghost or a train) and an accessory kit with more than 75 pieces. Ages 5+

RELATED: The Best STEM Toys for Kids

Stomp Rocket Stomp Racers

The best things about these cars are that they're totally kid-powered: no batteries or charging required. Instead, kinds stomp on the launcher as hard as they can to send the cars flying! Good Housekeeping Institute kid testers loved going head-to-head to see which car would go the furthest, along with using the ramp to make them get some air. Ages 5+

World of Disney Eye Found It Board Game

You'll need to clear off a lot of space for this game — the board is six feet long! But when it's unfolded, set the timer and head off to seek out as many of a certain item as you can find in the extra-large scene (bells, flags, cats, apples, etc.), challenging players on their memory and matching skills. It's the perfect family board game, because the rounds are quick by design, it's easy to learn, and the game is cooperative , so if one player wins, everyone wins! There's also a Marvel Eye Found It board game with a smaller board. Ages 3+

GeoSafari Jr. Kidscope

By the time kids are 5 years old, they're more curious about science and the world around them. This talking microscope helps empower them to learn more with 15 slides featuring close-up images of animals, plants and beyond . Parents and kids alike enjoyed that it's simple, easy to use and offers a lot to learn. And if they want to gaze out far into space, this year saw the launch of the GeoSafari Jr. Telescope . Ages 5+

Orboot Earth Globe

This globe lets kids travel the world through the magic of augmented reality. By using an app, they can learn more about the history, geography and environment of each region by zooming in with a tablet. There are more than 1,000 world facts included!

Paint by Sticker Kids

Kids can make cool, mosaic-like pictures without glue, markers or paint — instead, they fill in the pictures with pre-cut stickers in different shades. Positioning the sticker in the right spot is good for their fine-motor coordination, and they'll feel accomplished when they see the cool art they've made. Each book comes with 10 scenes to fill in.

VTech KidiZoom Creator Cam

With the KidiZoom Creator Cam, they can create their own high-definition videos, just like their favorite YouTube stars. This kit includes a green screen, a library of animated backgrounds, a tripod that's easy for little hands to hold and even a built-in microphone. Easy on-screen editing is available too, and parents can upload the videos to a computer via the included USB cable. Otherwise, it doesn't connect to the internet, so you don't have to worry about kid privacy. Ages 5+

Parents who grew up in the '90s will remember these well — the "virtual" pet is back and better than ever . Kids can feed their pets, play games with them, train them to do tricks and keep them healthy (all without the hassle of a real pet). You can get a puppy, a frog, a pixie, a dinosaur, a unicorn and the "original" Compukitty with Starcat. Ages 5+

VTech KidiStar DJ Mixer Black

Kids can experiment with beats, sound effects, faders and vocal tags with this device, which puts them in the role of DJ. In addition to more than 2,000 sound combinations that come preloaded into the kit, you can also connect it to your music player with Bluetooth or an AUX cable so they can remix their favorites. Ages 5+

Crayola Scribble Scrubbie Pets Arctic Snow Explorer

Kids can customize their furry, snow-themed friends , rinse and repeat as many times as they'd like. (Just be prepared to soak them a bit to erase the past scribbles.) There's even a cool, color-changing element: The pets turn blue in cold water, which was a hit with our testers. The set includes three cold-weather pets and six markers, plus two snowboards, two soaking tubs, a scrub brush and a vehicle that can be used as storage. Ages 3+

Marisa (she/her) has covered all things parenting, from the postpartum period through the empty nest, for Good Housekeeping since 2018; she previously wrote about parents and families at Parents and Working Mother . She lives with her husband and daughter in Brooklyn, where she can be found dominating the audio round at her local bar trivia night or tweeting about movies.

Rachel Rothman was the chief technologist and executive technical director of the Good Housekeeping Institute for over 15 years , overseeing testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all GH Labs. She also managed GH's research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems. 

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LOCAL UPDATE: Drivers Wednesday morning faced major delays and miles-long backups around the D.C. region. Here's why

No injuries when small plane lands in sprawling park in middle of Hawaii’s Waikiki tourist mecca

The Associated Press

April 16, 2024, 11:46 PM

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HONOLULU (AP) — A small plane landed in a sprawling Honolulu park Tuesday and the two people on board were not injured, officials said.

The plane “lost power and landed safely” in Kapiolani Park , in the heart of tourist-mecca Waikiki, said Scott Humber, a spokesperson for the city of Honolulu.

Honolulu Emergency Services Department received a call about the plane at about 3 p.m. Tuesday. Department spokesperson Shayne Enright said emergency responders determined no one was injured when the plane landed near Waikiki Shell, an amphitheater in the 200-acre (80.93-hectare) park in the shadow of the island’s iconic Diamond Head crater.

Millie Dydasco, a coach for the Leahi Soccer Club, was getting ready for three teams to arrive for practice when the plane glided about 20-feet in front of her. “It was a pretty smooth landing,” she said. “It didn’t come smashing down.”

She saw a man and woman get out, and then embrace each other.

Hundreds of kids typically practice soccer in the park daily. “Thank goodness around that time, it was still empty,” Dydasco said. “Had it been another hour and a half, two hours later, with kids on the field … would it still have landed here?”

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