I want to share some new developments on how we are promoting Orlando at this time in Florida and U.S. markets. Through these initiatives, we are capitalizing on key audiences' pent-up demand to travel.
Showcasing Orlando to National Media
This week, our publicity team hosted our first-ever virtual press trip, with 18 national journalists representing a variety of national U.S. media outlets, including The New York Times, Parents Magazine, Forbes, USA Today, Boston Globe and Conde Nast Traveler. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with one reporter calling it "the best virtual event I've attended all year."
The interactive presentation showcased new and unexpected activities to do in Orlando, our region's new safety measures, and fall and winter events.
Many thanks to our participating members who created custom virtual tours and interactive demonstrations for the group, including Walt Disney World Resort, SeaWorld Orlando Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, Gatorland, The Knife & Spoon at Grande Lakes Orlando, and the JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa. Stay tuned for many stories resulting from this event!
'State-Cation' Campaign
Our Off to Orlando “state-cation” campaign, which we launched this summer to encourage travel from regional drive markets, has now been extended through early December. The campaign continues to generate strong consumer engagement across our digital and social platforms, as well as positive media coverage on reasons to visit Orlando now.
Looking ahead, new marketing efforts will expand our reach to even more residents throughout Florida. We’ll also continue to promote a variety of story angles that include Florida resident deals, fall events, work/school-cations at Orlando resorts, destination-wide health and safety measures, and more.
Strengthening Local Business with Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining
During a recent press conference, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings spoke to the importance of Visit Orlando's Magical Dining from an economic standpoint. With members from Bites & Bubbles and Kabooki Sushi (above) by his side, he highlighted how the influx of added diners has helped restaurants recoup lost business, keep people employed and even hire more staff.
We knew that this year, more than ever, our popular seasonal dining program had the potential to bolster local business and employment opportunities. And we're thankful that, once again, Mayor Demings and Orange County government have given us such tremendous support.
Through Oct. 31, diners can enjoy three-course, $35 meals at our community's finest restaurants, with $1 from each meal benefiting Feed the Need Florida. View restaurants and menus here.
Hotel Occupancy Hits 7-Month High
Metro Orlando's occupancy rate for the week ending Oct. 10 was 33.7%, our highest level since March 8-14 and up from 30.8% the previous week. Average daily rate rose 17 cents to $82.48.
The Importance of Travel Deals
Discounts and travel deals, especially for airlines and hotels, are becoming more influential on potential visitors’ decisions to travel, according to a national survey. Nearly 4 in 10 say that attractive travel deals influence their decision, up from 33% last month.
Recognizing these trends, Visit Orlando continues to promote over 200 member offers across our destination, from theme parks and attractions to hotels, restaurants, shopping and more. If your company would like to share an offer, email our member relations team.
Stay safe, everyone.
George Aguel
President & CEO
