Americans have chosen California over Florida as their favorite vacation spot, a turn-around caused by the Sunshine State’s hurricane woes.
The Sunshine State dropped eight points in travel research company YPB&R’s annual survey, a steep enough drop to eliminate it from its long-time no. 1 position.
“Lingering perceptions about weather problems,” was the major reason cited by Chairman Peter Yesawich.
The National Travel Monitor survey polled 1,700 respondents.
The findings apparently were directed more at areas such as the Florida Keys, which had six hurricane evacuations in the last two years.
Tourist interest in areas such as South Florida continued to be strong, the survey found.
Visit Florida plans to launch a $1.6 million summer campaign aimed at in-state vacationers. The slogan:
“You Should See the State You’re in.”
Report by David Wilkening
