Celebrate Our Wide-Ranging Travel Industry

By LISA LAWSON Special to the Tribune

Published: May 12, 2008

Travel and tourism is vital to Pasco County prosperity.

During National Tourism Week, which is recognized nationwide May 10-18, we join hundreds of cities and states in an annual salute to the economic, social and cultural benefits of travel.

This year's theme, "Discover Great American Traditions," highlights the role that travel plays in discovering the icons of a destination, such as our PGA golf courses, which are recognized worldwide, and our beautiful Gulf beaches, historic settings, pristine waters, festivals and sporting adventures.

This industry is diverse and wide-ranging. It includes sectors such as hotels, airlines, rental cars, taxis and motor coaches and countless community features such as restaurants, museums, zoos, parks, beaches and events.

In terms of direct, indirect and induced expenditures, travel in America is a $1.6 trillion industry. The travel dollar creates 7.5 million jobs spanning all career levels. It generates $110 billion in tax revenues for local, state and federal governments - money that reduces taxes paid by local residents, encourages entrepreneurial opportunities and generates community pride and enthusiasm.

Those impressive numbers don't reflect the whole story, though. Travel is America's front door, leading to countless measures of goodwill among travelers near and far.

National Tourism Week recognizes the value of travel and tourism. Please join us in celebrating tourism's contributions in the Lutz area.

The writer is senior director of sales for the Residence Inn Tampa/Suncoast Parkway/Northpointe.