Marketing research company MMGY Travel Intelligence and nonprofit organization Destinations International Foundation recently released findings of a survey regarding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on North American destination organizations. The survey was conducted in two parts: March 4–8 and March 16–22. Employees of city, region and state destination organizations in North America completed the survey.
More than 80 percent of the destination organizations surveyed reduced or postponed sales and/or marketing spend in the last few weeks. More than 60 percent of these organizations asked employees to work from home. The majority of these organizations expect COVID-19 to continue to impact business over the next six months.
Almost 100 percent of destinations report postponements or cancellations of conferences, meetings or events due to COVID-19. Only 30 percent of destination organizations had a pandemic emergency plan in place prior to the COVID-19 outbreak.
“This is a rapidly evolving situation for our industry, and it’s important for destinations to make decisions based on facts and hard data as they begin to prepare recovery strategies,” said Craig Compagnone, chief operating officer, MMGY. “While there is no precedent for this situation, we know that travel has spiked following previous crises, and data will help influence how destinations keep travelers and communities informed until travel restrictions are eased and bookings return.”
The full report can be accessed on the MMGY Travel Intelligence website.
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedParents
Apr 24, 2024Treat Mom to Tea at The St. Regis Atlanta
Are you planning family travel to Atlanta for Mother’s Day this year? For those in the area on May 11 and 12, celebrate mom with a Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea at The St. Regis Atlanta. Afternoon tea is a hallmark at the property and this year’s Mother’s Day version will honor Audrey Hepburn and her iconic role in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Sponsored Content
Interior Upgrades Begin Rolling Out Across United Fleet
United Airlines is in the midst of a major initiative to modernize its fleet over the next several years. After first announcing the plan in 2021, planes fitted with United’s signature interior are finally beginning to appear across the airline’s narrowbody fleet of Boeing and Airbus planes. United flyers are sure to notice these enhancements from the moment they step on board: Each new or updated plane sports remodeled seats, seatback entertainment screens for everyone, Bluetooth connectivity and more, all adding up to a better experience on every journey.
Destinations / North America
Apr 23, 2024What’s New in Billings, Montana, This Spring and Summer
Plan your spring or summer family travel to Billings, Montana, this year. The largest city in the state offers plenty of family-friendly fun.
Destinations / North America
Apr 23, 2024Where to Tiptoe Through Tulips in the United States
First brought to the United States by Dutch immigrants in the late 1600s, tulips have become a colorful symbol of spring throughout the country and a popular spring and summer spot for family travelers. You don’t need to travel far to find them blooming in front yards and, in spring, displays of tulips paint parks and botanic gardens from Maine to Texas. A few places go all out with annual tulip festivals that are perfect spring trips for families.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Destinations / Caribbean
Apr 23, 2024Family Fun Awaits at Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives
Celebrate the warm weather with family travel to the sun-kissed shores of Aruba. Here, you’ll find Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives, a family-friendly resort filled with endless activities for all ages. This property features 10 all-inclusive dining options, four freshwater pools, eight bars and more.
ShareThis