Although substantial, the losses were less than some had expected.
BAR HARBOR, Maine – The Maine tourism industry posted historic losses in 2020. Though substantial, they remained smaller than many people expected.
According to the Maine Office of Tourism, Maine had 12 million visitors last year. There were 27 percent fewer visitors than in 2019, when the state had over 16 million tourists.
According to the report, these visitors spent nearly $ 4.8 billion. This is also a 27 percent decrease compared to 2019, when tourists spent more than $ 6.5 billion.
The restaurants and hotels in Maine felt the lack of tourism in 2020, but this summer is just around the corner. As security restrictions for COVID-19 relax and more people travel in comfort, reservations at hotels and campsites across Maine are increasing.
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Alf Anderson, executive director of the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce, says some businesses in the city are reporting their busiest April ever.
The Maine tourism industry posted historic losses in 2020. Though substantial, they remained smaller than many feared. Learn the details further this morning @ Newscentermaine at 5:30 and 6:30. I will also tell you why this summer seems to be a lot busier.#wake me up pic.twitter.com/aMSPOTDGzu
– Alex Haskell (@AlexHaskellTV) May 7, 2021
“There is a lot of optimism for the coming season and this season has already started,” Anderson told NEWS CENTER Maine. “I’ve heard from other business owners. This year has been really great [for some of them] even compared to 2019 and earlier years. Bookings are very strong for accommodation and other activities. “
Bar Harbor is not alone. Laura Dolce of the Kennebunk-Kennebunkport-Arundel Chamber of Commerce said she saw many visitors from New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts.
Find the full 2020 report from the Maine Office of Tourism Here.
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