Visit California

Last week, #VisitCalifornia revised its 2025 travel forecast to $160 billion in visitor spending — a 2.3% year-over-year increase, though below earlier projections. Global economic conditions and a slower international recovery continue to affect the outlook. This revision underscores the need for continued focus on long-term growth and global competitiveness. Thanks to California's strong brand equity, travelers continue to show a deep affinity for the Golden State. Read the full CEO Update and subscribe to future newsletters. ?? https://lnkd.in/gaCnSeTN

After two years of development, #VisitCalifornia has announced the first-phase release of its draft Regional Strategic Tourism Plans, a comprehensive initiative designed to help businesses and communities navigate challenges, seize opportunities and build long-term resilience. ?? https://lnkd.in/g8dZ5GdJ

San Diego International Airport set a passenger record in 2024, serving over 25.2M passengers. International travel to and from the airport grew by more than 10%. ?? San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, San Diego Tourism Authority https://lnkd.in/gdGa8hMe

For the first time ever, Christmas with Delta, the annual Australian holiday special hosted by musician and actress Delta Goodrem, was filmed in California, bringing the Golden State’s festive charm to over a million Australian households. This year’s edition continued its legacy by transporting audiences to #Hollywood and showcasing the best of #WestHollywood and #Anaheim. ?? Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, West Hollywood Travel + Tourism Board, Visit Anaheim https://lnkd.in/gUCCj96p

January’s Australia CEO Mission, featuring 12 senior tourism leaders, reinforced California’s position as a top destination for Australian and New Zealand travelers. In 2024, 470,000 Australian visitors spent $1.5 billion in California, accounting for 6% of the state’s international travelers spending. One the heels of the recent Los Angeles wildfires, the mission highlighted California’s readiness, resilience and unique value propositions to key partners in the region while emphasizing the state’s "open for business" message. ?? https://lnkd.in/gReVFs8D

As #LosAngeles recovers from the recent wildfires, efforts are underway to show the meetings and events industry that the region is ready to welcome planners and their groups with open arms. Group business plays a critical role in sustaining local economies, and Visit California is leading a coordinated push to protect existing bookings, generate new demand and restore confidence among event planners and attendees. ?? https://lnkd.in/gAYnAfHs

#HotelNews: Multimillion-dollar investment in the #PismoBeach accommodations sector! The Tides Oceanview Inn and Cottages has undergone a complete transformation, featuring refreshed rooms and vacation rentals. ?? https://lnkd.in/gxpKnnrZ

Congratulations to Ontario International Airport for winning six Moodies Awards for digital innovation! This global recognition highlights its commitment to enhancing the traveler experience and solidifies its role as a key gateway to Southern California. ?? GOCAL - Greater Ontario California https://lnkd.in/g8gTTG8b

Visit California recently returned from a Brand USA Trade and Media Mission in India, reaffirming the state's strong appeal in this booming travel market. With over 85 trade and media meetings, 92 trade buyers from 17 cities across India and the largest-ever delegation, the mission reinforced the immense potential for growth in Indian visitation to the Golden State. ?? https://lnkd.in/g74v7bMw

#HotelNews: Palisociety is set to open Le Petit Pali Laguna Beach in April, expanding its boutique bed-and-breakfast brand to Orange County. This two-story, 41-room inn, located on #LagunaBeach’s Coast Highway, features European-inspired design, luxurious amenities and a central pool area. ?? Visit Laguna Beach https://lnkd.in/gyM8p8Fi