Warnings about the Zika virus started during a slow season for tourism in Florida, however, it did coincide with the time that many travelers were looking to make their plans for vacations.
Hotel chains declined to release figures of percentage of cancellation, but travel agents said although they received many inquiries, only a few people changed plans.
Cities like Las Vegas is benefiting as vacationers book away from Florida. They are seeing a pickup in air and driving traffic traffic in the last couple of months.
The so-called babymoons, trips prior to the arrival of a new child is one of the niche markets that has been most affecte. For destinations with Zika warnings, there has been a significant loss in business.
Some affected areas are rejiggering marketing campaigns, hoping to attract new audiences.
KEYTAKEWAYS
- It’s too early to estimate the economic toll of Zika. There are added health costs, the loss of business and the lack of travel.
- Visitors’ bureaus in some other destinations either said they didn’t have proof of a Zika connection to their growth or were hesitant to speak about the bump, fearing that they might be perceived as gloating in somebody else’s misery.
- James Murren, CEO of MGM Resorts International, said on a recent earnings call that Las Vegas was benefiting as vacationers book away from Florida.
“Magazines including Travel and Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler have been offering “Zika-Free Destination” guides, offering alternative destinations. They include Bermuda, Charleston, South Carolina, San Diego, Palm Springs, Hawaii and Arizona.”
Original Source:
http://www.detroitnews.com/story/travel/2016/08/23/vacation-spots-benefit-travelers-avoid-zika/89215650/
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