U.S. Travel Association ESTO 2024
Kyle Edmiston, president/CEO; Timothy Bush, chief marketing officer; and Kathryn Shea Duncan, senior director of social media/communications—participated in the U.S. Travel Association's ESTO 2024 conference in Columbus, Ohio.
ESTO (Educational Seminar for Tourism Organizations) is an annual event for destination marketing professionals. It offers three days of dynamic learning, networking, and industry insight. Designed to inspire innovation and elevate marketing strategies, ESTO ensures professionals stay at the forefront of the evolving tourism landscape.
During the conference, Edmiston and Bush participated in panel discussions. Edmiston was a panelist for “Coopetition: Creating Synergy Across Destination and State Partners,” sharing insights into how Visit Lake Charles successfully teams up with other destinations, including Houston, Austin, and New Orleans, to create international marketing campaigns, share resources, and innovative efforts to drive international visitation elevating both our own and neighboring destinations.
Bush co-moderated “Peer Open Forum: Marketing & Advertising—DMOs,” which focused on rapid advancements and technological disruptions impacting the industry while fostering candid discussions and shared insights among peers on how to tackle those challenges and turn them into opportunities.
Southwest Louisiana Master Naturalist Certification
Sharon Ellender, an adventure guide at Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point, recently graduated and is now a Certified Southwest Louisiana Master Naturalist.
The Southwest Louisiana Master Naturalist program educates participants about the region's unique ecosystems, equipping them with the knowledge to protect and promote our region's natural beauty. As certified naturalists, individuals like Ellender play a pivotal role in educating visitors and supporting initiatives that preserve our area's natural habitats.
At a time when ecotourism is on the rise, programs like these ensure that Southwest Louisiana’s stunning landscapes and biodiversity remain integral to its tourism appeal. By safeguarding the environment, certified naturalists like Ellender contribute to conservation efforts and the sustainable growth of tourism in the region.
Louisiana Municipal Association 87th Annual Convention
Earlier this month, Emily Treme, director of association sales; and Madison Yates, destination services specialists, attended the Louisiana Municipal Association's 87th Annual Convention in Shreveport.
This event is an essential gathering of municipal leaders from across the state, fostering collaboration and community development. Lake Charles is set to host the 2025
convention, and with this in mind, the Visit Lake Charles team set up a booth at the tradeshow to generate excitement for next year’s convention in Louisiana’s Playground.
Report Recap: Tourism's Impact on Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana
In 2023, Calcasieu Parish welcomed seven million visitors, generating $800 million in total spending. That comes from the 2023 Travel USA Report, conducted by Longwoods International, reaffirming the area's strong appeal to visitors despite post-hurricane challenges.
The report highlights the resilience of the region's tourism industry, which saw a 3.3% increase in visitor spending compared to 2021 despite operating with over 1,000 fewer hotel rooms than before Hurricane Laura.
A significant takeaway from the report is the high rate of return visitation—eight out of 10 overnight visitors had visited previously, with 37% returning within the last year. This loyalty highlights Southwest Louisiana's lasting impression on travelers who come to experience the region's rich culture, cuisine, and outdoor activities.
Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana has remained resilient, keeping business travel steady while other places saw drops. With 84% of overnight visitors happy with their trip, the area’s attractions, accommodations, and hospitality are clearly making a great impression.
Check out Tourism Works in the American Press on the last Thursday of each month.
