More Sunshine For Florida
Florida Governor Rick Scott reports that the Sunshine State welcomed its highest number of visitors during the first quarter of the year with 29.8 million tourists visiting Florida.
This is an increase of 4.8% over the same period last year and exceeds the previous high of 28.5 million in the first quarter of 2015. And, despite a low Canadian dollar, 1.6 million Canadians visited the Sunshine State in the first quarter of 2016.
“I’m thrilled that Florida continues to break records in the amount of tourists visiting our state. Nearly 30 million visitors have enjoyed our beautiful beaches and attractions so far this year, and a record high of more than 1.2 million Floridians are employed in the tourism industry – which is great news,” said Scott. “Last year, we exceeded our goal of an historic 105 million visitors because of Florida’s unique national treasures, and I look forward to smashing our record again this year by welcoming 115 million visitors to the Sunshine State.”
Will Seccombe, president and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, added, “Given the challenges our industry is facing – the strong dollar’s impact on Canada and issues in Brazil – this record quarter for Florida tourism is even more exciting. It’s further proof that tourism marketing works. Our strategy of showcasing both the familiar and off-the-beaten-path travel opportunities remind potential visitors that, while Florida is filled with destinations they know and can trust, there is always more to discover.”
