Leaders of the travel and tourism sector of the national economy will convene to share ideas and prepare recommendations to assist President-elect Barack Obama in accelerating the economy through travel and tourism. The outcomes will be presented to Obama, his transition team and key members of Congress following a Dec. 16 meeting in Washington, D.C.

A broad cross-section of travel and tourism leaders has been invited to be a part of creating workable solutions for the struggling economy. The participation of more than 20 organizations has been confirmed, including leaders representing packaged travel, lodging, travel agents, cruise lines, ground transportation, air transportation and special interest travel, according to the National Tour Association, which is managing the effort. 

 “We believe it is critical to equip President-elect Obama and his administration with the ways in which travel can fuel the U.S. economy,” said NTA President Lisa Simon, CTP. “We know that travel and tourism is a way to quickly inject new jobs, new income and new tax revenues into our national economy. We simply need a unified plan to make it happen.”

Strategic partners and leaders within the travel and tourism sector have been asked to prepare their policy and cooperative marketing ideas, share them in advance with the entire group and then attend the summit in Washington, D.C., where the plans can be prioritized and coordinated into pragmatic solutions to assist the economic recovery.

The travel and tourism sector of the national economy contributes $700 billion to the United States annually. (www.ntaonline.com)

seeking excitement and a low cost adventure this winter season need look no further than the Land of Lincoln.  Travelers are encouraged to take a road trip and explore the different regions of Illinois, or stay close to home and enjoy activities that can be found in their own backyards.  From free parades and lights festivals to reduced rates at some of the state’s coolest attractions, Illinois has something for everyone – and every type of getaway – this winter.   

Illinois makes it easy to find affordable winter festivities by providing exciting 3-Day Getaway itineraries highlighting the events and attractions of the season.  To find out more, check out www.enjoyillinois.com.

CHICAGO

Visitors to Chicago’s Michigan Avenue will take home a lot more then full shopping bags this holiday season as memories will be made at the 17th Annual Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, Nov. 22.  For the 40th consecutive year, trees will be illuminated along North Michigan Avenue to signal the official start of the holiday season.  Kids can join Mickey Mouse and his Disney pals and enjoy free performances by Justin Roberts and the Not Ready for Naptime Players, Jason Mraz, and the Cheetah Girls for a magical holiday celebration in the Magnificent Mile district.  A fireworks display over the Chicago River at North Michigan Avenue will truly light up the night.  For more information, contact Greater North Michigan Avenue Association (312-642-3570, www.themagnificentmile.com). 

Travelers can discover the Magic of Macy’s this holiday season and join Tommy Hilfiger as he lights the Macy's Centennial Great Tree in the world famous Walnut Room.  The Centennial Tree will be on display through Jan. 6 and decorated with more than 1,200 themed ornaments and 25,000 sparkling lights.  The 41st Annual Animated Christmas Windows will tell the enchanting story about how the Great Tree was decorated using local Chicago landmarks.  Both the Great Tree lighting and window unveiling will take place Saturday, Nov. 8. 

For more information, contact Macy’s on State Street (800-329-8667, www.visitmacyschicago.com).   Take a break from holiday shopping and check out Chicago’s best views from John Hancock Observatory.  From Nov. 15 through Dec. 21, the Observatory will usher in holiday cheer with Christmas trees, mistletoe and visits from Santa, as well as breathtaking views of the city’s holiday lights from 94 stories above the Magnificent Mile.  Kids get in free on the weekends with every paid adult throughout November and December.[1]  While there, visitors can warm up with a steaming cup of coffee or hot cocoa at the world’s highest Espression by Lavazza Café.  For more information, contact John Hancock Observatory (888-875-VIEW, www.hancockobservatory.com).

[1] Adult must provide valid Illinois state I.D. to receive discounted child’s admission. Valid for children ages 11 and under. 

CHICAGOLAND

This winter, culture enthusiasts can take a Holiday Mansion Tour, Nov. 28 – Dec. 31, at the Cuneo Museum in Vernon Hills to experience the elegance and artistry of a time gone by.  In addition to the tour, visitors can drive through the Winter Wonderland Holiday Lights Show, Nov. 28 – Jan. 3, to view animated displays and holiday decorations.  Built as a private residence in the early 1900s, the Cuneo mansion is now a historic house museum highlighted by European furnishings, tapestries and treasured works of art, including several ceiling murals painted by late Chicago-area artist John Mallin.  Holiday Mansion Tours are offered daily (except Mondays) and during select evenings for $8 per person.  Additional admission is $5 per car, Monday through Thursday; the Winter Wonderland Holiday Lights Show is $10 per car on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.   For more information, contact Cuneo Museum (847-362-3042, www.cuneomuseum.org).

 All aboard the Wonderland Express at the Chicago Botanic Gardens Nov. 28 – Jan. 4.  There is always something new to see at the Model Railroad Garden, where 16 classic model trains cross bridges, zoom through tunnels, and wind their way past many of America’s most famous landmarks – all made from natural materials.  And now in its sixth year, the Reindog Parade (Dec. 6) will be a howling good time for everyone!  Dogs and owners will celebrate the holiday season in a parade led by Santa and compete in a dog costume contest.  Additional events include "Winter Wonders" family drop-in activities throughout the month, plus Christmas Breakfast with Santa (Dec. 13, 20), Christmas Supper with Santa (Dec. 11, 16, 18), and a Hanukkah Dinner and Concert (Dec. 22).

Don’t just see the trains at the Botanic Gardens; save money and ride Metra.  Take Metra’s Union Pacific North Line to the Glencoe station and hop on the Botanic Garden’s holiday trolley every weekend during Wonderland Express, and every day from Dec. 26 to Jan. 4.  Round trip trolley tickets are only $2.

For more information, contact Chicago Botanic Garden (847-835-5440, www.ohwow.org).

In its 27th year as a Chicago-area favorite, the Brookfield Zoo welcomes visitors once again to it annual Holiday Magic celebration, taking place Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 6 – 31.  Zoo-goers can find adventure as they marvel at the nearly 1 million twinkling lights illuminating the zoo’s walkways, a dazzling Laser and Light Spectacular, ice-carving demonstrations, magicians and much more.  Santa will make a special appearance to hear children’s wish lists (through Dec. 21).  On Dec. 31, families can ring in 2009 during Counting Down the Zoo Year with Radio Disney from 6 – 8 p.m.

For more information, contact Brookfield Zoo (708-688-8400, www.brookfieldzoo.org).

NORTHERN

A winter adventure can be found amidst the rolling hills of Illinois’ beautiful Galena Territory.  At the Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa guests can relax and enjoy the perfect balance of the area’s serenity and holiday activities.  Spa-goers staying between Nov. 27 and Dec. 27 will certainly catch the holiday spirit with self-guided driving tours to view nearby homes brilliantly decorated for the season; special packages feature deals for families, couples and spa enthusiasts.  For more information, contact The Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa (815-777-2444, www.eagleridge.com).

Beginning Thanksgiving weekend, the shops and streets of Richmond will be reminiscent of years past as they are trimmed with seasonal cheer and sparkling lights at the Christmas of Yesteryear in historic downtown Richmond.  The festivities run Nov. 28 – 30, and children of all ages will love to experience the days before motor cars with free horse-drawn wagon rides that will be offered all weekend long.  Santa Claus will arrive to light the majestic Christmas tree, and visitors are encouraged to contribute their own special ornament to the tree.  Visitors will enjoy perusing the historic downtown, shopping throughout the antique district’s quaint shops, and dining in locally owned restaurants.  

For more information, contact McHenry County CVB (815-363-6177, www.visitmchenrycounty.com).

Will winter extend for six extra weeks this year?  Head over to Woodstock for their annual Groundhog Days celebration, Jan. 29 – Feb. 2, and find out as the city watches to see whether or not Woodstock Willie sees his shadow.  The weather-curious can enjoy a weekend of activities all related to the 1993 movie, “Groundhog Day,” which was filmed in Woodstock.  Activities include Lighting of the Groundhog kick-off event on Feb. 1, free walking tours of film sites, free screenings of the movie at the downtown Woodstock Theater and more.   For more information, contact Groundhog Days Hotline (815-338-2436, www.woodstockilchamber.com). 

CENTRAL

Celebrate the 145th anniversary of the reading of the Gettysburg Address at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library in Springfield, Nov. 19 – Jan. 31.  The exhibit, Sam Fink's The Gettysburg Address, will feature original art created for the book, The Gettysburg Address, illustrated by master calligrapher and artist Sam Fink.  The art will go on display on the anniversary of the 1863 reading of the Gettysburg Address by Abraham Lincoln.  The exhibit can be viewed free of charge with general admission to the museum.  For more information, contact Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (217-558-8934, www.alplm.org).

Visitors at Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch can meet real reindeer at this central Illinois treasure in Rantoul.  Hardy’s is home to an ever-growing herd of real, live Alaskan reindeer, and offers an authentic holiday experience year-round.  Not only can visitors pet and feed friendly reindeer, it's a wonderful place to find the perfect Christmas tree, warm up with cups of hot Wassail and pick up homemade treats at the barn gift shop.  For more information, contact Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch (217-893-3407, www.reindeerranch.com).

 Now in its sixth year, the Pantagraph Holiday Spectacular (Dec. 12 – 14) will fill the stage at Illinois

State University Braden Auditorium in Normal with a crowd pleasing variety show that celebrates theholidays through singing and dancing.  The show is loosely based on A Christmas Carol, and incorporates humorous holiday scenes the whole family will enjoy.  Music includes classic songs by Irving Berlin, and an amazing Nativity reenactment complete with live animals and traditional carols. Tickets range from $25 - $20 for adults, $10 - $8 for kids (14 and under). For more information, contact Illinois State University Braden Box Office (309-438-5444, www.holidayspectacular.org). 

WESTERN

Discover a downtown winter wonderland in Bloomington with Christmas in the Park.  Take a step back in time when old fashioned holiday traditions are featured on center stage as Miller Park and the historic Pavilion are turned into a Christmas wonderland.  Free activities will include visits and pictures with Santa Claus, crafts, sleigh rides, storytelling, face painting and holiday games, plus local musical entertainment by The Tri-Valley Madrigals, Mains Street USA and Davis Verchwold. For more information, contact the City of Bloomington (309-434-2260, www.cityblm.org/parks).  

One of the nation’s largest lights festivals, the East Peoria Festival of Lights (Dec. 5 – 31), has once again been voted one of the Top 100 Events in North America by the American Bus Association.  In its 24th year of crowd-pleasing entertainment, this year’s event includes the River Trail Classic on Nov. 29, and free tours of historic homes featuring holiday decorations on Nov. 30 and Dec. 7.  As always, the festival kicks off with the popular Parade of Lights and fireworks spectacular on Nov. 29.

For more information, contact the City of East Peoria (800-365-3743, www.cityofeastpeoria.com).  Bringing skiers and snowboarders back to the Midwest for more than 26 years, Ski Snowstar Winter Sports Park in Andalusia welcomes in the winter season.  The park offers 28 acres of well-groomed snow and a variety of trails that cater to all levels.  Ski Snowstar provides customized lessons as well as night skiing, snow tubing and endless fun for snow enthusiasts. For day passes, or for those who will be hitting the slopes all winter long, tickets can now be purchased at a discounted rate online.  For more information, contact Ski Snowstar Sports Park (800-383-4002, www.skisnowstar.com). 

SOUTHERN

Offering an enjoyable variety of distinct wine varietals and primarily featuring Illinois-grown grapes, the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail has become a favorite destination for wine lovers and travelers throughout Southern Illinois.  For a special wintertime getaway, take a weekend trip to one of the many wineries offering cozy bed and breakfasts and stock up on award-winning wines to give as the perfect holiday gift. For more information, contact Shawnee Hills Wine Trail (www.shawneewinetrail.com, 618-967-4006). 

Early 19th century holiday traditions are on display in Metropolis at Illinois’ first state park, Fort Massac State Park during the Olde Tyme Christmas celebration (Dec. 9).  While there, visitors can walk around the replica of the 1802 original fort which will feature re-enactors representing the French, American and Civil War-time traditions of the holidays including period decorations, live local music and refreshments such as hot spiced tea and cookies baked in the authentic period oven. For more information, contact Southernmost Illinois Tourism Development Office (618-524-9321, www.southernmostillinois.com).

SOUTHWEST

Experience the enchantment of the holiday season at the Rock Spring Park Christmas Wonderland Holiday Light Display in Alton.  Visitors can take a moonlit drive through the park and view more than two million twinkling lights strung throughout the trees to make a host of charming displays.  Also featured, Santa Claus will welcome guests in the Enchanted Forest, and a variety of animals will keep the kids entertained at the petting zoo.  Christmas Wonderland 2008 will be open from Nov. 28 – Dec. 28, with a special walk-through night on Dec.1.  For visitors looking to add some romance to the night, carriage rides are available with advanced reservations by calling Greatting Horse Farm. For more information, contact Alton Convention and Visitors Bureau (800-ALTON-IL, www.visitalton.com).

Travelers can celebrate the holiday season with international flare during Weihnachtsfest, the annual German Christmas Festival in Millstadt on Dec. 7.  The day features an arts and crafts fair, holiday parade and Cookie Walk, plus homemade German food and beverages including favorites such as sauerbraten, bratwurst, potato pancakes, strudel and gluehwein.  All events are free and will occur between 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.For more information, contact The Tourism Bureau of Southwest Illinois (618-476-1812, www.thetourismbureau.org).

Throughout the winter season, the Mississippi River hosts one of North America’s largest concentrations of bald eagles that are drawn to areas of open water in search of fish.  Adventure seekers can join the city of Madison for the 14th Annual Eagle Days at the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, Jan. 17 – 18, featuring an educational program, spotting telescopes and Lewis and Clark re-enactors.  The eagle program is repeated every 20 minutes from 10:00 a.m. – 2:40 p.m. daily and viewing telescopes are staffed by trained volunteers to assist visitors in spotting the magnificent eagles. For more information, contact Trail Net (314-416-9930, http://trailnet.org).

To get travelers started on their Illinois winter journeys, the Illinois Bureau of Tourism offers information on related one-of-a-kind attractions, events, accommodations and bookable 3-Day Getaways through the Bureau’s Web site, www.enjoyillinois.com or its travel counselors at 1-800-2CONNECT.  Travelers can also order the Illinois Travel Guide, the most comprehensive guide to travel in the Land of Lincoln.  Guides are available at Tourist Information Centers, local convention and visitors bureaus, and regional tourism development offices statewide.

The Travel Industry Association released its annual travel forecast, which said that while the travel industry will continue to face challenges through 2009 and in some segments through 2010, leisure travel will sustain the industry while business travel retrenches. However, the search for value is greater than ever, and travelers will cut back -shortening trips, downscaling the level of hotels they choose and perhaps switch to lower-cost destinations.

Leisure travel remains more resilient than business travel, said Dr. Suzanne Cook, senior vice president of research for the TIA. “Consumers are responding as we might expect during an economic slowdown,” said Cook. “But travel should not simply be viewed as an economic indicator; it should be seen as a part of the solution to our economic woes. There’s no doubt that if we can spur travel, we can help to turn the economy around.”

Despite current economic conditions and lagging consumer confidence, the forecast shows that leisure travel volume remains stable for 2008 (down 0.2 percent) and is expected to decline modestly in 2009 (down 1.3 percent). According to the latest travelhorizons survey co-authored by TIA and Ypartnership, seven out of 10 (71 percent) respondents intend to take an overnight trip of 50 miles or more from home during the next six months. Nearly half (48 percent) of all respondents stated they were not planning any changes to their future travel plans as result of the recent turmoil in the financial markets.

The outlook for business travel is more challenging, with a 3.7 percent decline in volume projected for 2008 and another 2.7 percent decline forecast for 2009, according to TIA’s annual travel forecast. Companies are making decisions to scale back in the current environment and business travel is no exception. Business, meeting and convention travel volume is expected to begin to recover in 2010, increasing 2 percent.

Dr. Peter Yesawich, chairman of Ypartnership, echoed Cook, saying that demand for leisure travel represents the majority of the demand for travel services in the United States today. “More people are boarding aircraft and checking into hotels for leisure than for business,” he said.

The Travel Sentiment Index (TSI) is at 78, the same level it was in July but down from a high of 93 in February. Yesawich said that the TSI appears to have bottomed out, in part because of the industry’s response to the current economic downturn with attractive promotional offers. Three of the six factors that determine the TSI are up -- the perceived safety of travel, the perceived quality of service and the perceived affordability. Three measures are down, a major one being the perceived time available. Time poverty has been taking a toll for quite some time, Yesawich said. There’s been a slight decline of interest in travel, which Yesawich attributed to the current financial crisis and the third criteria, money to spend on travel, is also down.

Yesawich said that the current financial crisis has made value “king” for travelers. That has made inclusively priced vacations -all-inclusives, cruises and vacation packages that include many components paid for in advance- appeal to about 75 percent of active travelers. “To Americans, vacation is a birthright,” Yesawich said, “but many of them will be trading down in terms of budget, length of stay and expenditures on food, beverage and souvenirs.” Yesawich said that the travel industry can stimulate demand with attractive offers but that it must take care to build these offers around the weekend, which sets the parameters for most American vacations.

Although overseas travel to the United States still has not returned to pre-9/11 levels, recent increases in international travel have cushioned the blow of declining domestic travel. This is not expected to hold true in 2009. The Department of Commerce estimates that international arrivals will decline by 1.6 percent in 2009. Overseas travel to the U.S. is expected to decline 3 percent in 2009 and grow very modestly in 2010. By the end of 2011, overseas arrival still will not exceed the record level in 2000. “As the dollar gains strength and the global economy cools, the need to make America more attractive to international travelers grows,” said Cook. “America’s visa process, the entry experience and the lack of communication and promotion all need a second look in this difficult environment. Now is not the time for unnecessary barriers and inefficiencies.”

Yesawich noted that the Canadian dollar has dropped substantially, making Canada a much better value for Americans, and that the peso has dropped 35 percent, making Mexico an extremely affordable winter vacation destination and the English pound has dropped as well.

The National Tour Association Board of Directors has approved decreasing membership dues for 2009 in order to assist its members during the current economic crisis. Members will receive a nearly 15 percent deduction in their membership dues, thanks in part to the tremendous growth the association experienced in 2008.

"We know that times are tough in today’s economy,” said NTA Chairman and CEO Bob Hoelscher, CTP. “NTA wants to continue to be an affordable resource for our members and an available option to new travel companies looking for assistance in dealing with the challenges of running a business in today's marketplace.”

In 2008, NTA experienced unprecedented growth, including the addition of more than 150 new tour operator members. This growth has allowed the association to offer this cost-savings assistance to current and future members in the coming year.

“In addition to the many new members we have already welcomed this year, NTA Headquarters is experiencing a high call volume from businesses interested in joining the association,” said Hoelscher. “In times like these, more companies realize the importance of a professional business organization to find potential partners and tap new markets. NTA offers the business opportunities, such as tour operator partnering and regional product development, to help facilitate this.”

The National Tour Association is the preferred association in the tourism industry for packaged travel professionals. NTA's diverse membership and progressive nature make it an industry leader as the place to do business. NTA consistently seeks innovations for the services and business tools it provides to members, and the leadership keeps its fingers on the pulse of the ever-changing world. In turn, NTA members are some of the most creative in the dynamic travel industry. NTA membership represents 36 countries, and tour and travel packagers of all types, including a group, independent, student, and more. To learn more, please visit www.NTAonline.com.