State tourism restoration underway, however will take years to completely rebound

In about a year, the pandemic “wiped out a decade of growth in California,” a senior state tourism manager told reporters Tuesday.

How long will it take to recover? “

“Our latest forecast, made in collaboration with the tourism industry, shows a recovery from the pandemic that will in fact take about four years,” said Caroline Beteta, CEO of Visit California, which oversees the nonprofit that is involved in the promotion national and international visits to the US is mandated state.

Among the domestic projections for visitor spending, California is 76% of 2019 levels this year, according to Beteta. In 2022, spending for domestic visitors is expected to hit 94% of 2019 levels, while international travel is not expected to see any significant recovery through 2023 becomes.

“Along with the rest of the state of California, Visit Napa Valley looks forward to a full and safe reopening in time for the busy summer season,” said Linsey Gallagher, President and CEO. “Visit Napa Valley and encourage travelers to book midweek stays to take advantage of specials and experience the valley like a local.”

During Tuesday’s annual economic outlook meeting, Beteta announced the launch of Visit California’s new campaign, “Dreaming On In California,” which looks to brighter days and opportunities to make up for the celebrations and moments lost last year.

“The focus on Californians traveling and making up for the missed milestone celebrations – weddings, birthdays, graduations, anniversaries – means we can get some of the 39 million residents to travel here,” said Tim Zahner, Sonoma Valley executive director Visitors Bureau.

Claudia Vecchio, President and CEO of Sonoma County Tourism, said she was confident of a resilient summer season in the area.

“Travelers from Northern California and the western United States, as well as some of our major flight markets, are already booking trips to the region,” said Vecchio. “We know the pent-up desire to travel is real, and we’re thrilled that Sonoma County is one of the first destinations people feel safe when they return.”

Beteta said Californians can help promote their state’s recreation by vacationing in the state.

“This is about voting California and choosing your Californian citizens first as a modern act of patriotism and helping get the state going again, generating billions in tax revenue, and getting our friends and family back to work when you are ready. Said Beteta.

Read more from North Bay Tourism Guides and visit California in the print edition of the North Bay Business Journal on Monday.