Trenton, NJ—In recognition of National Tourism Week, Secretary of State Nina Mitchell Wells joined other state dignitaries and tourism representatives at a press conference to announce the positive indicators and projections from the tourism industry for the upcoming summer travel season.
The New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism’s informal survey of industry insiders – completed annually prior to Memorial Day – suggests that visitors are still taking much-needed vacations this summer, although they may be closer-to-home vacations due to economic circumstances.
“Everyone wants the relaxation and to spend leisure time with their families, so New Jersey is a great economical option because over 91 million people live less than a tank of gas away,” said Secretary of State Nina Mitchell Wells.
Atlantic City is even more accessible due to new air and rail travel services from New York City, Boston, Atlanta and Orlando. Encouraging statistics from Atlantic City officials revealed that an increasing number of travelers and meeting planners were discovering the ease and affordability of Atlantic City.
County and local tourism officials also express a positive outlook for summer 2009. Officials in Monmouth and Ocean counties report that travelers are expressing interest in staying closer to home this season, and rentals and hotel rooms are steadily filling.
Cape May County representatives report that seasonal second homeowners are returning to vacation this summer. Cape May has also seen a substantial increase in interest and visitation from Canadian travelers in recent years. Campgrounds in the area report bookings are nearly full for the whole season. In Ocean City, rental reservations are steadily increasing and a loyal customer base continues to return. Officials are finding a growing number of these visitors have conveyed that the Jersey Shore is a favorite vacation spot.
“New Jersey’s tourism industry is expanding more than ever," said Secretary Wells. “Last year, expenditures swelled to $38.8 billion and visitors from other states accounted for the largest portion of tourism expenditures, roughly 71% as visitors enjoyed everything from our 127 miles of beautiful beaches and pristine state parks to thriving cultural arts and preserved historic sites.”
For more tourism related info: www.visitnj.org.
