May 16, 2006

Dear Fellow Nebraskans:

While families all across our state are touched by higher gas and energy prices, it was interesting to hear that historically higher prices at the pump haven’t prevented Americans from canceling their travel plans, instead choosing to make slight modifications to their travel plans according to the Travel Industry Association of America.

Nebraskans still have many options when it comes to enjoying attractions and activities closer to home.

In recognition of the important impact tourism has on local and statewide economic development efforts I was very pleased to announce a new tourism campaign designed to promote the many opportunities Nebraska has to offer to not only out-of-state visitors, but our residents as well.

We want to tout the wonderful attractions Nebraska has to offer, and the ‘More Vacation. Less Travel’ campaign is an opportunity to thank our tourism partners for the role they play in local economic development, and to show our pride in this growing industry that is key to Nebraska’s continued success.

With this campaign, we also hope to encourage more Nebraskans and their families to take advantage of travel opportunities throughout the state. Whether it’s by reconnecting with our rural roots, attending some of the many festivals and events taking place during the summer months, or enjoying the beauty of Nebraska’s many landscapes; there’s no limit to the possibilities offered in communities across our state.

We have seen some important progress in recent years. Last year, travelers in Nebraska helped set a new milestone for tourism spending by crossing the $3 billion mark for the first time ever. In addition, a national survey conducted by AAA named Nebraska as the least expensive state to visit for two years running.

In 2006, a family of four vacationing in our state will spend an estimated $191 a day on travel-related expenses, and tourism dollars spent in a community typically stay in that community, translating into an overall economic impact of $2.70. Tourism-related businesses also enhance local economies by providing nearly 44,000 jobs in communities across the state.

Numbers such as these are why Nebraska’s tour and travel industry is the third-leading industry in the state, and ours is a state that offers travelers not only great value, but great attractions.

Whether you want to reconnect with some of Nebraska’s historic locations ranging from Arbor Lodge in Nebraska City to stops along the Oregon Trail and Chimney Rock near Bayard, take advantage of outdoor activities at one of Nebraska’s eight state parks and more than 80 recreational areas including Lake McConaughy near Ogallala, or see unique sights like that of Carhenge near Alliance, Nebraska has much to offer.

In addition to these destinations are literally hundreds of events and local festivals planned throughout the summer months in communities from one end of the state to the other. One example of statewide interest are the events planned for late this summer to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Lewis and Clark’s journey home after years spent crossing the U.S. during the early 1800s.

A free Nebraska travel packet featuring these and other destinations is available from the Nebraska Travel and Tourism Division by visiting http://www.VisitNebraska.org or calling (877) NEBRASKA.

With the summer months just around the corner comes the opportunity for more Nebraskans to get out and see a new part of the state. This is a great time to explore some of Nebraska’s endless possibilities.