The Westmoreland, Fayette and Somerset Counties Marketing Organization sheds light on the “power of travel” during the National Travel and Tourism Week, held the first week of May.

Ligonier-based GO Laurel Highlands will also welcome visitors to its new office at the city’s Diamond, 113 E. Main St., during two open days from Wednesday to Thursday from 3pm to 6pm.

While officials are facilitating guidance on outdoor health precautions during the Covid-19 pandemic, staff are encouraging visitors and residents alike to explore the area’s “open spaces” and participate in its economic recovery.

“Everyone has the power and personal choice to help our industry recover,” said Ann Nemanic, general manager. “Travel is a powerful tool. one that promotes physical and mental wellbeing. The Laurel Highlands is a destination where these elements are woven into the fabric of our landscape. “

According to the annual government study Economic Impact of Travel and Tourism in PennsylvaniaPrior to the pandemic, visitors to the three Laurel Highlands counties spent a record $ 1.92 billion in 2019, up from nearly $ 1.85 billion in 2018.

When the travel industry was hit by the pandemic and social distancing became a lifestyle, the marketer focused on the area’s outdoor recreational activities. Nemanic said “messaging will continue through 2021.”

Ski resorts boosted tourism in the first quarter of this year, said Nemanic. According to accommodation reports, occupancy rose 40% in March compared to the same month last year.

“We know about ours website Analyzes looking for and booking vacation rentals go over the top, ”she said. “Our camping partners see that places are reserved quickly.”

Those who can’t make it during one of the Open House events can visit the new office and visitor center during regular opening hours from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays. The office is open on a few weekends when Ligonier hosts special events. Masks are required for visitors to the office, which can be reached at 724-238-5661.

More room

After more than 20 years in an office in the borough’s town hall, the office moved across the Diamond to a three-story building that was formerly the Conte Design Lifestyle Gallery and has a storefront in the heart of the business district.

“We decided on the building shortly before the pandemic and moved into the facility last spring and into the summer,” said Anna Weltz, Director of Public Relations and Community Relations.

Visitors to the new office can purchase items such as drinking glasses, water bottles, duffel bags and clothing with the organization’s new logo.

Shortly before moving to the new location, the organization completed its rebranding and decided on a shorter name. “We processed it gently in 2020 and it was well received,” said Weltz.

During the Tourism Week celebration, the office will partner with seven other western Pennsylvania travel destination marketing organizations, including VisitPittsburgh and groups in Erie and Beaver counties, Butler, Crawford, Lawrence and Mercer counties. Each organization provides the others with gift cards or other prizes that are given out through social media.

Laurel Highlands Awards include gift cards from Irwin-based Greenhouse Winery that combine with Laurel Highlands Pour Tour passes, entry to Living Treasures Wild Animal Park, and gift cards from Valley Dairy restaurants.

Jeff Himler is a contributor to Tribune Review. You can contact Jeff at 724-836-6622. jhimler@triblive.com or via Twitter .