Jun 2, 2009, 13:17 GMT
Miami - A popular president, an improving image and a weak dollar: three things that would normally make the United States a magnet for tourists.
But the global recession has produced the opposite effect and in 2009 the number of foreigners visiting the US is expected to fall by 8 per cent, according to the new Commerce Secretary Gary Locke speaking at a tourist fair in Miami.
However, some holiday makers are also seeing an opportunity in these times of crisis. Never before have airline tickets, hotels, cruises and amusement parks been so inexpensive.
Choosing the US as a holiday destination makes good economic sense, according to Tilo Krause-Duenow, manager of tour operator Canusa and a board member on the Visit USA Committee.
'There are a growing number of free extras such as breakfasts, evening meals or use of spas - especially in upmarket hotels,' says Caroline Beteta, head of the California Tourism office in Miami.
Cruise ship companies are also offering big discounts. A seven- night trip on board a ship with all meals included costs between 350 and 400 dollars (250 to 287 euros). 'For many people it's cheaper to go on a cruise than stay at home.'
George Fertitta from New York tourism also believes 2009 will be a year of big savings. Last year, the Big Apple broke visitor records which led to quickly rising hotel prices.
But now there are rooms available at 20 or 30 per cent discounts, 'even though the occupancy rates of hotels remain high.' On average hotel rooms now cost between 220 and 280 dollars a night.
New York is hoping 'The Real Deal' campaign will be a hit with tourists. Over 90 hotels, museums, theatres and excursion organisers are taking part in the campaign.
Anyone who makes a booking through the online portal www.nycgo.com for two persons can also expect to receive a discount of 50 per cent on one ticket.
Miami is planning a four-for-three campaign offering visitors four nights in a hotel for the price of three, according to Suzie Sponder from the Miami region's tourist office. 'Almost all of our members are taking part,' she says.
Another positive surprise for many people visiting the US will be the price of petrol. In summer 2008 a gallon cost about 3.80 dollars. Now in Minnesota, for example, a gallon can now be had for 2.40 dollars, according to Cheryl Offerman from the state's tourist board.
A trip to the US will prove to be cheap for most visitors this year. Krause-Duenow says that 'the prices of the hotel chains have fallen by at least 10 per cent. They are also offering plenty of extras such as free breakfasts. Discounts that never happened before are suddenly available everywhere - from Hawaii to Miami.'
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