Michigan Great Outdoors - Marketing West Michigan

Representatives from Mason, Lake, Manistee, Oceana, and Newaygo Counties band together to draw tourists

Travel Michigan's public relations director, Dave Lorenz, delivered the keynote address to the Michigan Great Outdoors group, November 5, 2007. He commended the counties on uniting their efforts to attract visitors to the region.

Lorenz noted that since Sept. 11, 2001, Americans have cut back on travel, but regional trips are still popular. $10 billion of Michigan's tourist dollars come from residents traveling within the state. Slightly less, $8.7 billion, comes from those who travel here from other states.

Hospitality is key to success. People want to be informed about what else is available in the nearby area. And more travelers are requesting earth-friendly places. They are asking for hotels and resorts that are green-certified.

When asked the purpose of their trip, 9.4% said they were going to a beach or waterfront, and 8.7% said they were visiting parks. Hunting and fishing tallied 10.2%.

Lorenz encouraged Michigan to promote the "Pure Michigan" campaign to the point where is becomes as recognizable as the I (heart) NY logo.

from the Ludington Daily News
See Michigan.org
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