“While it’s unusual for a city to promote another destination, this pandemic has encouraged a spirit of collaboration in support of the tourism industry,” said Visit Omaha Executive Director Keith Backsen.
Each city has created its own Virtual Vacation. Through social media promotion, each destination will encourage its local community to click through and enjoy inspirational photography, colorful videos, and digital offerings from the other cities.
“Families are looking for new ideas and creative ways to be entertained during a time when it’s important to practice social distancing,” said Catch Des Moines President and CEO Greg Edwards. "As a destination proud to be a part of the heartland, our region has just what families are looking for in their next vacation."
“Since in-person rallies and events have been hallmarks of NTTW in years past, but are not an option this year, we wanted to find a way to inspire people to travel and explore new places without leaving the sofa … at least for the time being,” said Experience Sioux Falls Executive Director Teri Schmidt.
Travel research by U.S. Travel Association and MMYG Travel Intelligence indicates 1 in 3 travelers is more likely to take a vacation closer to home than they were before COVID-19.
“This is an opportunity to partner with our neighbors to showcase what our region has to offer,” said Meet Minneapolis President and CEO Melvin Tennant. “When travelers are ready to take that first road trip, we all will be ready to welcome them.”
National Travel and Tourism Week is an annual tradition during the first full week of May for the U.S. travel community to celebrate the value travel holds for our economy, businesses and personal wellbeing. This year marks its 37th year.
Visit Omaha Virtual Vacations