Inspired Insights

World Economic Forum Study Shows Record Gains in Travel

The WEF’s Travel & Tourism Development Index reports a record 1.5 billion international tourist arrivals in 2025, one of many positive signs for DMOs and other organizations promoting travel.

Sevierville Invites Visitors to Walk in Dolly’s Footsteps

Among the worldwide tributes for the legendary singer and performer is a new walking tour debuting in October in Parton’s hometown of Sevierville, a cozy community in the shadow of the Great Smoky Mountains.

How Visit Austin Turned a Convention Center Closure Into a $748M Marketing Win

The DMO was awarded the Marketing Momentum Award at the ESTO 2026 conference for a leisure campaign that generated 28,300 hotel bookings, $9.36 million in direct hotel revenue, and a reported $748 million in total economic impact.

Study Highlights the Importance of Travelers' Airport Experience

The JD Power 2026 North America Airport Satisfaction Study found that passengers demonstrated increased happiness with their experiences at mega airports, large airports, and medium-sized airports.

Royal Caribbean Is Buying Into Sandals Resorts. What Does That Mean for the Travel Industry?

The merger brings together two of the largest brands in the travel sector and could have major ramifications for travelers once the deal is finalized in early 2027.

The Hardest Destination Marketing Metric to Prove? Whether Your Ads Actually Got People to Visit

A VDX.tv campaign led to a 7.5% increase in visitation. Here are the takeaways.

Dennis Edwards Set to Retire as President and CEO of Greater Raleigh CVB

44-year hospitality veteran led destination through nearly two decades of tourism growth.

What Will It Take to Reach 100 Million International Visitors by 2030?

Earlier this month, leaders from the U.S. tourism industry emerged from a White House meeting with an ambitious new goal of attracting 100 million international visitors by 2030.

Orlando Celebs Share ‘Common Ground’ with Travelers on New YouTube Series

Tripadvisor partners with Visit Orlando on inaugural video series promoting local experiences.

How One Destination Tapped into Its ‘Soul’ for a Feel-Good Activation

On June 19 and 20, the Augusta GreenJackets altered their identity to become the Augusta Soul as a tribute to the city’s rich musical legacy.

‘Middle of Everything’ Campaign Continues to Pay Off for Illinois

According to the governor’s office, the “Middle of Everything” campaign was responsible for additional 2.78 million trips and $904 million in visitor spending last year.

Destination DC Sets Record in 2025, Aims Higher with Upcoming Sports Events

Tourism in the nation’s capital rebounded in 2025. Destination DC is counting on sports to continue momentum built from the festivities surrounding the country's 250th birthday.

eTourism Moves: New Hires & Promotions for September 2026

Summer break is over and there are a lot of new faces in new places within the eTourism community. Here’s a look at recent hires, promotions, and other personnel news.

Fred Dixon Return to Head New York City Tourism + Conventions

Fred Dixon is returning home, following a two-year stint as president and CEO of Brand USA.

How One Holiday Campaign Changed This DMO’s Year-Round Marketing Strategy

Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge changed its marketing mindset to target older travelers during shoulder seasons.

In Kingston, Ontario, the Olympic Legacy Lives on 50 Years Later

North American destinations that hosted the World Cup this summer need only look Kingston, Ontario for inspiration for what awaits.

Visit Tucson Staff Completes Accessibility Training

To better accommodate all visitors, Visit Tucson recently initiated training for its hospitality community via the Wheel the World Academy program.

6 Destinations to Escape the Heat

This has been the summer of the heat dome in the U.S. With it sweltering in many places, a chance to beat the heat is going to sound like a cool idea for many travelers. Here are some top choices to have a great trip without breaking a sweat.

Virginia Touts Local Impact from Tourism Records

Visitors fill hotel rooms, eat at restaurants, and shop locally when on vacation, but the impact trickles down to full-time residents. The Virginia Tourism Corporation reiterated that point when framing its record-setting 2025 tourism statistics.

World Cup Fills Hotel Rooms in Philadelphia

Philadelphia announced strong revenue results for the city’s hotel industry resulting from the six matches it hosted between June 14 and July 4.

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