With one of the most appealing and important travel seasons well underway all across North Carolina, the Division responded quickly this week to help industry partners minimize the impact of the federal shutdown on visitation.
On the eve of the shutdown, the Division released a statement encouraging visitors to use VisitNC.com to take extra care in planning their fall visits. This release was picked up by the Associated Press and ran in numerous outlets nationally including The New York Times, ABC News (online), NBC News (online) and the Washington Post, with additional inquiries continuing to come in for positive information about what visitors can do. Total circulation to date is an impressive 66,764,855. The release was also posted with photography through the Division’s social media channels, and industry partners are encouraged to share and contribute to the conversation.
Recognizing many potential visitors are confused about what attractions are federal facilities and what attractions are not, the Division developed a new editorial page on VisitNC.com/fall explaining which iconic North Carolina attractions are open or closed, and providing nearby alternatives for attractions that have been shut down. Staff at the state’s nine Welcome Centers are also using this information to guide travelers. The Division team will continue updating this page as the situation changes and more information becomes available. N.C. travel industry partners should keep the Division posted on any additional closures and alternative activities for visitors in your area. Send updates to Director of Tourism Marketing Wit Tuttell.
The Division’s monthly Travel Insider electronic newsletter, distributed today to 85,000 subscribers and potential travelers, linked to the updates on VisitNC.com regarding the status of attractions throughout the state.
While response efforts continue, the Division’s ongoing fall promotional campaign is also showcasing seasonal activities across the state through print advertising, digital advertising, public relations, social media, VIsitNC.com and more.
The U.S. Travel Association is also asking for input about how the government shutdown is affecting tourism stating there’s no better evidence of the very real impact of this shutdown exists than stories from the frontline, which U.S. Travel can use with lawmakers and media. It’s seeking examples of how the shutdown is impacting travel in your area, whether through significant lost travel business, canceled or postponed events, or frustrated travel groups. This information can be emailed to US Travel.