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In the News
http://business.bostonherald.com/businessNews/view.bg?articleid=72141
Tourism Industry Predicts Spring Blossom
By Jennifer Heldt Powell
March 8, 2005 – It's a good time
to be in the tourism industry.
Americans are expected to travel in record numbers, despite rising gasoline
prices, and many are headed to the Bay State.
“The first quarter has been strong, even with the weather,” said Patrick
Moscaritolo, head of the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau.
“That's critical because how the first quarter goes is usually how
the rest of the year goes.”
As an indicator, Yankee Dental, the region's largest trade show of the
year, had record attendance despite being held during a blizzard. The
second-largest show, the International Boston Seafood Show opening next
week, is growing with a move to the new Boston Convention & Exhibition
Center.
“I think this is going to be the best year for tourism in America,”
said Kevin McLaughlin, chief executive of the Go Boston Card, which
offers visitors and residents discount packages to local attractions.
“The stock market isn't doing great, so people are investing in themselves
and enjoying themselves.”
Americans are planning 281 million trips of 50 miles or more from home
during March, April and May, up from 277.5 million last year, according
to the Travel Industry Association of America.
The industry is keeping a close eye on gasoline and airline prices,
but insiders generally don't expect the increases to keep people home.
“People are confident about the discretionary money they have to spend
on vacations,” said Cathy Keefe, travel association spokeswoman.
Previous spikes in gasoline prices didn't put a damper on travel plans,
she said.
The Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism is launching a spring
discount hotel promotion based on the success of its winter version,
spokeswoman Amy Strack said.
“When it comes down to it,” she said, “people are always looking
for good deals.”
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