Why is a bad national economy a good economy for tourism in Kent County? Because when those “from away” can’t afford to fly far, they drive someplace nifty that’s nearby. And that would be here.
Tourism Development Director Bernadette Van Pelt was at the Tuesday commissioners’ meeting to give an update about the state of tourism in Kent County — and the news she gave is good.
In 2008 visitors, including day trippers, spent $55.4 million during their vacations. Since 2007, the lodging industry alone has generated more than $4 million in revenue.
“I don’t think anyone could possibly say that Kent County isn’t a destination because it obviously is,” said Van Pelt.
On average the tourism office places 67 ads in 38 different publications, she said. The ads are working: last year the tourism office received 18,000 requests for visitor information. The Web site is generating interest as well. Kent County’s Web site, www.kentcounty.com received 454,000 unique visitors last year; Chestertown had 282,000, Rock Hall 221,000, and Galena 22,000.
The county visitors’ center in Chestertown is also a draw with 16,261 walk-ins reported last year.
What’s helping Kent County remain a destination in this struggling economy? Oddly enough, the economy, Van Pelt said. Because of its location, Kent County is the ideal vacation spot for folks who live in Philadelphia, Baltimore, Wilmington, or even New York who want a dose of small town charm without having to travel a great distance.
“Our research shows that people are still taking vacations; they just may not be flying,” she said.
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