Florida continues to set national records under the leadership of Ron DeSantis.
One got under the skin of his nemesis, Gavin Newsom.
And Ron DeSantis made one announcement about Florida that left Gavin Newsom fuming.
Ron DeSantis celebrates Florida being number one in the country for tourism
Florida’s tourism has been surging since the pandemic.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis kept the state open while other states imposed draconian pandemic restrictions.
That helped create a tourism boom during his administration.
Now the Sunshine State is the top tourist destination for Americans and the number two destination for international travelers according to data from VISIT FLORIDA, the state’s official tourism marketing group.
“Florida’s world class attractions, hospitality, and unwavering commitment to freedom have solidified our position as the top vacation destination,” DeSantis said.
“These figures show that Florida continues to be on the right path, as we have insisted on prioritizing public safety and common-sense leadership,” DeSantis added.
Florida’s share of the domestic tourism market increased to 14.8% from 13.8% in 2022.
The state’s share of the international tourism market increased as travel began to normalize after the pandemic.
Germany, Mexico, and the United Kingdom were the countries with the most tourists to visit Florida.
DeSantis’s office pointed out that Florida’s domestic market share of tourism increased since 2022 while “formerly popular destinations” California and New York saw a noticeable decline.
California had a 1.2% decline since 2022.
Florida now leads California by a 2.7% margin, cementing the Sunshine State as the top spot for American tourists out of any state.
VISIT FLORIDA president and CEO Dana Young said he looked forward to the state continuing to beat expectations.
“Florida’s continued ability to attract visitors speaks volumes about the state’s appeal, both domestically and internationally,” Young said. “From our pristine beaches and serene state parks to the thrills of our world-renowned theme parks and vibrant cities, Florida continues to captivate visitors with its unmatched experiences.”
“We look forward to continuing to surpass all expectations and welcoming visitors to our beautiful state,” Young added.
One day before DeSantis’ announcement, California Governor Gavin Newsom tried to proclaim that his state was the number one tourist destination.
Gavin Newsom beclowns himself boasting about California tourism
Newsom traveled to the top of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge to record a video of him boasting about the state’s tourism.
California’s tourism just hit an ALL TIME HIGH. pic.twitter.com/98syiCUSCt
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) May 5, 2024
“So I’m up here on the Golden Gate Bridge,” Newsom ranted. What a perfect place to announce our record-breaking tourism numbers. Last year, $150 billion of investment, tourists around the globe coming to the great state of California.”
Critics pointed out that the number was driven by inflation.
KTVU reported that Visit California, the state’s tourism marketing agency, report found “that adjusting for inflation, travel spending in California is actually down 14% from its peak in 2019.”
San Francisco still has not regained its pre-pandemic level of tourism.
Businesses in the City by the Bay wondered where the tourists were.
“We’re just waiting for the tourists to come and for the season to really get going,” Pier 23 Cafe owner Mac Leibert told KPIX. “And as you can see on a Sunday afternoon brunch, it’s not happening.”
California is once again lagging Florida in yet another category.
DeSantis Daily will keep you up-to-date on any new developments in this ongoing story.
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Author: rg_jh
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