Sunshine Matters

VISIT FLORIDA’s greatest strength has been, and will always be, the input and guidance we receive from the members of the Florida tourism industry.  Now more than ever, it is vital that VISIT FLORIDA’s marketing efforts are strengthened by the direct involvement of volunteer leaders representing our industry. Continue reading »

As the state’s No. 1 industry, welcoming visitors who generate $11.3 billion in state and local taxes and employ 1.4 million Floridians, it’s important to let our lawmakers know how vital tourism is to Florida and its residents.  It’s also crucial that our legislators understand the role VISIT FLORIDA plays in ensuring the Sunshine State remains a top tourism destination for visitors from around the globe. Continue reading »

During a press conference at the Brevard Zoo this morning, Governor Rick Scott announced that Florida set another record in tourism by welcoming the highest number of visitors in the state’s history with 112.8 million in 2016.  This is the sixth consecutive record year for visitation to Florida, exceeding the previous high of 106.6 million in 2015 by 5.9 percent.  Tourism jobs also hit a record high in 2016 of 1.4 million jobs, exceeding the previous record in 2015. Continue reading »

Today marks four weeks on the job as President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, and I want to thank the industry for your support.  Let me tell you what’s been happening.

Today, industry representatives from hotels, restaurants, attractions and every other type of tourism business across the state came to Tallahassee to speak up for VISIT FLORIDA.  You showed up to help and your voice was heard.

While the bill to eliminate public funding for VISIT FLORIDA may have passed out of the House Careers and Competition Subcommittee this afternoon, I could not be prouder of the way the industry has rallied to make a difference. Continue reading »