| Travel:
The Ultimate Economic Stimulus for Idaho
Much of the talk nationally, as well as locally, has been centered on how to get our economy moving again. Policy proposals and local budgets are being measured by whether they will create jobs and stimulate spending. While a contentious debate about the right policy rages in Washington, D.C., how about an answer that is much less controversial, easier to implement, and, best of all, could yield better results right here in north central Idaho? I’m talking about investing in our travel economy. Many people don’t realize it, but travel and tourism is one of our most important economic drivers. In fact, in Idaho, travel and tourism is the third largest contributor to the state’s economy. Simply put, when people travel, the economy grows, jobs are created, and the tax coffers are filled. So how can we invest in this precious resource, and leverage it to improve our economy? Here are a few ideas. How can any of us do that? Invite meetings be held in Idaho. What personal and/or professional groups are you associate with? Suggest they meet right here in our local area, or somewhere else in Idaho. Make a list with the contact information for the personal and/or professional groups you are associated with that hold meetings and forward that list to a regional travel specialist who will make sure your contacts receive ‘meet in Idaho’ invitations. For north central Idaho, which includes Idaho, Lewis, Nez Perce, Latah & Clearwater Counties contact Frances Conklin of the Idaho Travel Council at frances@dogbarkparkinn.com or phone 208 962-3647. Corporations, professional and social associations, hobby groups, reunions, and board meetings are sources for potential meeting business. It is critical that we do everything possible to provide our local chambers & regional tourism travel promotion association with the necessary financial resources to get our message out to potential visitors. If you own or manage a motel, hotel, bed & breakfast, rv park or campground, restaurant, grocery store, gas station, museum, retail store or other business that visitors frequent, consider joining your local chamber and NCITA. Take advantage of resources provided by the Idaho Tourism Division. New initiatives were launched this year to encourage Idaho visitation. Enjoy the travelogue at www.greatidahogetaway.org, enter the contest, and forward the info on so your contacts can find out why Idaho is a great budget & family-friendly state to visit. Check out www.souldofskiing.com and also pass this link on to a ski buddy or two inviting them to come ski with you next season. This week is National Travel and Tourism Week & it’s a great opportunity to let our elected officials know that we support and appreciate their efforts to improve our economy locally & nationally. The United States has been observing National Travel and Tourism Week since 1984 when President Reagan established it to promote the tremendous value of travel in America. Remember, we can all do our part to continue to grow Idaho’s economy one traveler at a time! Submitted by Frances Conklin Dog Bark Park |
 |