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Plea to US government for greater recognition of travel and tourism
The US State Department has been urged to recognise travel and tourism as an “untapped vehicle” for improving America’s image around the globe.
The call came from Travel Industry Association of America president Roger Dow, who said: “America’s image abroad is in crisis right now. At the same time, we have an opportunity to reverse this trend – by welcoming more visitors to our great nation.”
He was speaking to the US State Department Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy.
The US share of the global travel market has dropped by 36% in 15 years, according to the TIA.
And a recently released survey by the Pew Global Attitudes Project revealed that America’s global image has again slipped, even among close US allies, as reported by TravelMole.
Testifying before the commission, Dow said: “By bringing visitors to our country, we can share what makes our nation great – its people, energy and way of life,” Dow said.
“Research documents the ‘perception boost’ that occurs when someone visits the United States and experiences our nation first-hand. Yet we do little to encourage international travellers to pay us a visit, while challenging entry requirements give travellers a reason to go somewhere else. Making America the international destination of choice is good diplomatic policy.”
Report by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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