As we kick off the summer season across Texas, the outlook for travel is strong and full of opportunity. From our vibrant cities to our charming small towns and breathtaking natural landscapes, Texas continues to offer unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. I encourage each of you to take time this season to plan your own summer getaway - use those well-earned PTO days and rediscover all the incredible destinations and attractions right here in our great state. Don’t forget to check out our Texas Attraction Deals page for discounted tickets to attractions across Texas. A special thank you to our new program sponsor, GetOut, for supporting this initiative. Look for discounted GetOut passes to be available on the site very soon!

May was a wonderful month for connection and collaboration as we hosted our first Regional Tourism Workshop in Laredo. A heartfelt thank you to Visit Laredo for their warm hospitality and partnership in making the event such a success. We’re excited to continue this momentum at our next Regional Tourism Workshop in Early, Texas, on July 29. Registration is now open, and we hope to see many of you there.

Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to join our colleagues in The Woodlands next week for the inaugural LeadHERship Live: A Texas Women’s Conference, hosted in partnership with TSAE. This inspiring event will bring together women leaders from across our industry and there’s still time to be part of it - register now.

If you haven’t yet registered for Travel and Tourism College, now is the time! Taking place June 22–26 in College Station, this signature program offers the opportunity to earn your Certified Tourism Executive (CTE) designation, invaluable professional development and networking opportunities for tourism professionals at every level.

We’re also proud to share that the eighth episode of our What I Like About Texas podcast dropped on May 20. Thank you to Visit Big Bend for sponsoring and participating in this episode that is all about the great outdoors in Texas. Be sure to tune in on Podbean or your favorite podcast platform to hear more great stories from across Texas.

To all of our members - thank you for the important work you do every day to promote travel and tourism across Texas. Together, let’s continue to inspire travelers, strengthen our communities, and have a great summer season!

May begins with a celebration that is especially close to home for all of us - National Travel & Tourism Week. All across Texas, destinations and partners are hosting NTTW celebrations that highlight the people and experiences that make travel such a powerful economic engine and community builder, and I am especially excited to join our colleagues at the San Antonio Visitor Alliance’s NTTW Luncheon on Thursday to celebrate the impact of travel in their community and statewide.

The travel economy is showing momentum in 2026: early indicators from Q1 show strong performance statewide, with hotel demand up year-over-year, spring travel building earlier than normal, and several regions reporting double‑digit growth in hotel revenues compared to Q1 2025 (including a 10.6% increase in the Rio Grande Valley). As we head into peak travel season, these trends reinforce what we already know: Texas travel remains resilient, competitive, and essential to our state’s economic success.

At the same time, we are reminded that our industry is built on people and communities. Last week’s EF-3 tornado in Mineral Wells directly impacted friends and colleagues in our travel family. Recovery is underway, but support is still urgently needed. If you are able, we encourage you to contribute to the Mineral Wells Disaster Relief Fund to help businesses and residents rebuild.

Looking ahead, please remember to register for LeadHERship Live: A Texas Women’s Conference by this Friday, May 8, to take advantage of early bird pricing. This event continues to grow as a powerful space for connection, leadership development, and inspiration across our industry, in partnership with our association friends with TSAE this year. We hope to see you there!

We are also excited to share that our TTA podcast returns on May 20, with new stories and insights from across Texas outdoor travel. A heartfelt thank-you to our podcast sponsor, Visit Big Bend, for supporting this episode and helping us elevate voices from every corner of the state.

Finally, as we gear up for the upcoming 90^th Texas Legislative Session, we need your input. Please take a few minutes to complete our short legislative survey and share the issues that matter most to you and your organization. Your guidance is critical. It ensures that our advocacy efforts remain focused, relevant, and aligned with the real priorities of our members.



Thank you for all that you do to strengthen travel and tourism in Texas. Your dedication, resilience, and collaboration continue to move our industry forward. We are grateful to be working alongside you and look forward to all that lies ahead this summer.

Sincerely,

Erika Boyd

Texas Travel Alliance President & CEO

As we move into February, Texas tourism is already showing strong momentum for 2026. Recent reports indicate that Texas is among the states leading a national surge in tourism this year, with projected growth in visitor arrivals driven by major airport and infrastructure expansions across Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas. These targeted improvements are helping position our state for a record‑breaking year in travel demand. Additionally, the global airline outlook forecasts 5.2 billion passengers worldwide in 2026, reflecting a 4.9% jump in passenger traffic, a trend that directly benefits Texas as air connectivity and access expand statewide. [travelandt...rworld.com]  And when we add great events across the state, like World Cup matches, America 250 celebrations, the anniversary of Route 66, and more, we are cautiously optimistic as we push through Q1 2026. 



A few reminders and important updates for February:

Register by February 6: Texas Travel Unity Dinner (Early Bird Deadline!)

There’s still time to secure early‑bird pricing for the Texas Travel Unity Dinner - be sure to register by February 6. We hope you’ll join industry leaders from across the state as we celebrate the impact of travel and tourism on Texas. You can register here.

Advocacy Empowered Conference: Registration Now Open

We also encourage you to register for our Advocacy Empowered Conference, where we will equip you with tools, knowledge, and resources to engage effectively with policymakers and advance tourism priorities in your community and for the coming legislative session. Register here.

Economic Impact Video: We Need Your Photos & B‑Roll!

Our new Economic Impact Video is currently in development and will debut at this year’s Unity Dinner. To help us showcase the diversity and power of our industry, we invite you to submit current photos and B‑roll of your destinations, businesses, staff, and visitor experiences. Your contributions help us tell the powerful story of travel in Texas.

Introducing the New TTA Webinar Hub

We are excited to announce the launch of our Webinar Hub(must login to access), where members can now access previous TTA webinars on‑demand. We encourage you to sign up for our upcoming session focused on building successful internships and engaging college students.

As always, thank you for your commitment to strengthening the Texas travel industry. Your leadership, insight, and engagement ensure that we continue to grow, innovate, and amplify the impact of tourism across every corner of our state. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events and continuing this important work together.

Happy New Year! As we kick off 2026, I’m energized by the momentum our industry is carrying into this new year. We’ve just wrapped up an incredibly productive 2025, and I’m proud to share our 2025 Annual Report in this issue. It highlights the advocacy wins, programming successes, and statewide collaborations that made last year such a standout for Texas travel and tourism.

As many of us set new goals and resolutions for the year ahead, I encourage you to make one more resolution - one that supports the strength and future of our industry. Consider deepening your engagement with TTA, mentoring emerging leaders in your community, and supporting the Texas Tourism Foundation and the Texas Travel PAC. Your involvement helps ensure that Texas remains a powerhouse for travel, tourism, and hospitality, and that our collective voice continues to be strong and effective.

We’re jumping right into an exciting January. Be sure to join us for our upcoming member webinar: From Inspiration to Action: The AI-Powered Traveler Journey, presented by Robert Patterson with Mindtrip on January 22 at 2:00 PM. This session will explore how AI is reshaping the traveler experience and how your organization can adapt and thrive.

We’re also planning a member orientation webinar soon - an opportunity to walk through your TTA benefits, meet the team, and get answers to common questions from new (and long-time!) members. Stay tuned and check your inboxes for more details soon.

And great news: registration is now open for our 2026 TTA events. We encourage you to mark your calendars early and secure your spot - this year’s programming is shaping up to be our most impactful yet.

Finally, our podcast What I Like About Texas returns on January 21 with our first episode of 2026. Don’t miss a fun and fascinating conversation with Kashion Smith from Visit Amarillo about quirky Route 66 and the upcoming 100th anniversary of the iconic highway. We’ll also chat with Diann Bayes from How Big is Texas about some lesser-known gems to add to your Texas road trip bucket list.

Thank you for being part of the TTA community. Here’s to a year of big ideas, bold partnerships, and unforgettable Texas travel experiences. Together, we'll make 2026 extraordinary as we remember that life’s better in a state of travel.

As we approach the end of another incredible year and the holiday season is in full swing, we’re reminded of the joy and connection that travel brings to all of us. This year has been one for the record books - literally! According to recent TSA data, more than 3.1 million travelers were screened the Sunday after Thanksgiving, setting a new all-time record. It’s clear that people are eager to explore, and Texas continues to be a top destination for unforgettable experiences.

Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to announce that dates for all of our 2026 events are now available! You’ll find them listed in the newsletter below and on our website. Be sure to mark your calendars now so you don’t miss any of the industry’s best education and networking opportunities in the coming year.

One event we’re especially excited about is our new partnership with the Texas Society of Association Executives (TSAE) for LeadHERship Live! A Texas Women’s Conference, scheduled for early June 2026. This collaboration will bring together inspiring leaders and create a space for meaningful conversations and growth. Stay tuned for more details soon!

As you plan your holiday travels, don’t forget to check out our latest episode of the What I Like About Texas podcast which ispacked with ideas for the perfect holiday road trip. And for those looking to make new family traditions, visit our Texas Travel Deals page for the best ticket deals on attractions across the state. These festive events might just become your favorite holiday memories! Plus, watch for new Texas Travel Deals branding and even more deals in 2026.

Finally, from all of us at Texas Travel Alliance, thank you. We are deeply grateful for your engagement and support throughout this year and as we move into the next. Please take a moment to watch our year-end video below highlighting all of our new members for 2025 and join us in celebrating the incredible growth of our community. We look forward to an exciting year ahead - together.

Warm wishes for a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year from our entire team to yours!

As the heat of summer starts to fade and we enter the final quarter of 2025, it’s a great time to reflect on the momentum we’ve built this year and look ahead to what’s next. The outlook for travel in Texas this Q4 remains strong, with seasonal events, cooler weather, and holiday festivities drawing visitors across the state. Our industry continues to show resilience and creativity, and we’re proud to be part of such a dynamic community.

A heartfelt thank you to all our members and sponsors who helped make the 40th Annual Texas Travel Summit in San Antonio earlier this month a tremendous success. Your energy, ideas, and support made this milestone event unforgettable. We were thrilled to celebrate excellence in our industry at the Awards Gala, where we honored:

• Jasmyne Harris, AJR Media Group – Rising Star Award
• Brad Wuest, Natural Bridge Caverns – Tall in Texas Award
• Paul Schultz, Landry’s Inc.  – Lifetime Achievement Award
• AJR Media Group – Heritage Award

We were also proud to welcome 19 students to Travel Summit this year, giving them the opportunity to connect with our members, learn about the industry, and explore careers in travel and tourism. Several students received scholarships during the conference, and we’ve shared photos from those special moments here. If you’d like to support these efforts, consider joining our Workforce Development Committee or our Speaker’s Bureau (Workforce Info - Members Only Page). And don’t forget: submit your internship opportunities and post your job openings on our TTA Career Center.

We also want to thank everyone who has participated in or sponsored our new podcast, “What I Like About Texas.” We’ll wrap up our inaugural year with a festive holiday episode dropping just before Thanksgiving. If your destination or attraction offers something fun and seasonal for fall or the holidays, we’d love to feature it! Please submit your holiday details by October 24.

Membership renewal invoices will be going out soon. Your continued support helps TTA advocate for our industry, grow member resources, and strengthen the network that keeps Texas travel thriving. Membership rates will remain unchanged for FY 2026 as part of our commitment to providing stability and value for our members.

As we head into the final stretch of the year, we’re energized by the passion and dedication of our members. Thank you for all you do to promote travel and tourism in Texas. Let’s keep the momentum going and finish 2025 strong - together.

Warm regards,

As summer begins to wind down, there’s still time to squeeze in one last adventure—and we’ve got just the thing to help you do it! Our  Texas Travel Deals Program is packed with incredible offers for those spontaneous summer getaways. Whether you're craving a theme park, water park, escape room, or an aquarium, you’ll find something perfect  here.

Looking ahead, we’re gearing up for our  biggest event of the year, Texas Travel Summit , happening this October 1-3 in vibrant San Antonio! If you haven’t registered yet, now’s the time. This year’s Summit promises to be unforgettable, starting with an opening night celebration at the iconic Alamo, followed by an after-party at the retro-cool Be Kind & Rewind. It’s the perfect mix of inspiration, networking, and fun—and we can’t wait to see you there!

We’re also proud to once again present the  Daniel J. Decker Scholarship at this year’s Summit. This opportunity honors Dan’s legacy by supporting the professional growth of individuals in our industry. The recipient will receive complimentary registration to either the 2026 Travel & Tourism College or the 2026 Texas Travel Summit, along with access to a mentor who is an established executive in the Texas travel industry.  Applications are open now through September 1.

In addition, we are now  accepting proposals to host the 2026 and 2028 Texas Travel Industry Unity Dinner and Advocacy Empowered Workshop. These events bring together industry professionals, elected officials, and TTA leadership for critical advocacy training. The deadline to submit is  August 20. See the  packet and  schedule for full details.

Meanwhile, our advocacy work continues full steam ahead. As the first called special session unfolds at the Texas Capitol, we’re actively engaged—making sure your voices are heard and your priorities are represented. Help us secure the future of travel by donating to the Texas TravelPAC. The TravelPAC allows for the opportunity to support legislators who work hard to protect and grow the Travel Industry.

Let’s make the most of these last golden days of summer. Whether you’re traveling, planning for Summit, or staying close to home, we’re proud to be your partner in growing and strengthening Texas travel.

See you on the road (or at the Alamo)!

As we welcome the vibrancy of spring, we are reminded of the beauty and renewal that this time of year brings. Springtime in Texas is particularly special, with wildflowers in full bloom and a renewed sense of energy in our communities. The bluebonnets are already looking particularly beautiful!

We invite you to renew your professional energy by attending one of our upcoming events. The Texas Travel Expo is right around the corner on April 30 - May 1 in Waco, providing a fantastic opportunity to showcase your destinations and attractions. Additionally, Texas Travel College will take place in College Station June 23-27 and is packed with fantastic speakers and great information to help you on your way to attaining your CTE credential. And don't miss out on Texas Travel Summit in San Antonio, October 1 - 3. We encourage all members to register and participate in these impactful events to connect with industry peers and stay informed about the latest trends.

Please note, we have also issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the 2026-2028 Texas Travel Summit events. Bids are due by April 11, and we look forward to receiving your innovative proposals for this stellar industry event. This is a great opportunity to bring our premier conference to your community and showcase what your destination has to offer.

Last week, Amanda Garcia and I traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in U.S. Travel's Destination Capitol Hill event, advocating for Texas at the federal level. We participated in great conversations with our industry peers from across the U.S. and then had meetings with the Texas legislative delegation to talk about the importance and impact of travel and tourism to the U.S. economy and Texas. 

Our conversations are ongoing at the state level as well. With less than 50 days left in the Texas legislative session, things are now moving quickly at the Austin Capitol. We still have several important bills progressing, and your involvement is crucial. Over the next few weeks, we will be calling on you to help by writing letters to your legislators or we may ask you to travel to Austin to provide testimony in person. Your participation is vital to ensure that our industry's voice is heard and that we can continue to advocate effectively for the travel and tourism sector. Don't forget, you can receive our in-depth weekly legislative updates by making a contribution to the TravelPAC. 

Thank you for your continued support and dedication. Together, we are making a significant impact and continuing to elevate Texas as a premier travel destination.

Warm regards,

As we welcome the month of March, I am thrilled to reflect on the incredible momentum we have built together. Last month, on February 20th, we gathered in Austin for the Texas Travel Rally at the Capitol. It was inspiring to see so many of you engaging with over 70 legislative offices, advocating for the travel industry's vital role in our state's economy. The day culminated in our annual Texas Travel Industry Unity Dinner, where travel professionals and elected officials from across Texas came together to celebrate our industry's strength and impact.

Looking ahead, I am excited to announce our next event, the 2025 Women in Travel Conference, taking place on March 27-28 in Georgetown. Last year, we hosted our inaugural event, and we are looking forward to another fantastic gathering with even more inspiring speakers at this now two-day event. The Women in Travel Conference promises to be an empowering experience, and I encourage you to register now to secure your spot. You can find more information and register here.

In other news, Governor Abbott recently released the Governor’s Small Business Freedom Council comprehensive report, which aims to cut red tape for small businesses in Texas. I am honored to have served on this Council and to contribute to this important initiative.

Additionally, this month's newsletter includes the February month-end legislative update. The 89th Legislative Session is starting to move quickly now, and I am pleased to report that several of our bills have already been heard or are scheduled for committee hearings. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each of the members who joined us in Austin to testify in support of the TTA cavern liability bill and the TTA waterpark liability bill. Our advocacy team continues to work tirelessly at the Capitol every day to represent your interests and move these initiatives and others forward. If you would like to receive more frequent legislative updates, weekly reports are sent to those who support the TravelPAC.You may donate here to support our advocacy efforts.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to the Texas travel industry. Together, we are making a difference.

Sincerely, 

February is here and our team is busy preparing for our first two big events of the new year—the Texas Travel Industry Unity Dinner & Silent Auction and Texas Travel Rally at the Capitol, both on February 20th in Austin.

We will start the day with the Texas Travel Rally at the Capitol. This rally is a crucial event for showcasing the importance of the travel industry to our state legislators. During the day, our members will split into groups and attend prearranged meetings with legislative offices to emphasize the critical role travel plays in the Texas economy. There is no cost to attend. If you have not yet registered, please do so today and join us as we Rally at the Capitol for travel.

Later that evening, we will gather at the Austin Convention Center for the Texas Travel Industry Unity Dinner, an annual event that brings us together to champion the future of travel in Texas with our colleagues and our elected officials from across the state. We are particularly excited to hear about the 2025 travel outlook from featured speaker, Adam Sacks, President of Tourism Economics,an Oxford Economics company dedicated to unlocking the power of economics for the travel sector, during the dinner program.  

There is limited space available, so reserve your tickets and tables for Unity Dinner today. And please consider inviting your local elected officials and state representatives to join you at your table. Their presence is vital in highlighting the significance of our industry and fostering strong relationships with our policymakers.

We also encourage you to contribute to the iconic Unity Dinner Silent Auction by donating an item. Your generous contributions help make this event a success and make our ongoing support of the travel industry possible.

We are excited and looking ahead to a great year; 2025 promises to be a year of robust growth and innovation for the travel industry. With strong demand continuing across Texas, we anticipate more travelers prioritizing their travel experiences and exploring new destinations. This positive outlook underscores the importance of our collective efforts to advocate for and support the travel industry in Texas.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to the Texas travel industry. We look forward to seeing you at these exciting events!

Kind regards,

Happy New Year! As we welcome 2025, I hope this message finds you and your loved ones in good health and high spirits. Our team is looking forward to a productive new year with continued growth as we continue to support the Texas travel industry. 

I am pleased to announce that our 2024 Annual Report has been published. This report highlights our significant accomplishments over the past year, and I am incredibly proud of our team, our dedicated board of directors, and the progress we have made together. You can view the report here.

As we look ahead, the 89th Legislative Session is about to commence in Texas. This session presents a crucial opportunity for us to advocate for the interests of the travel industry. I invite you to join us in Austin on February 20th for our annual Texas Travel Industry Unity Dinner and the new Texas Travel Rally at the Capitol. These events are vital for demonstrating our collective strength and commitment to the growth and success of our industry and provide two great opportunities to connect with our elected leaders directly to show the impact that travel and tourism have on the Texas economy.

CALL TO ACTION:An iconic part of our annual Unity Dinner event is the silent auction that showcases items from all facets of the industry. Please support us by donating an item today.

Thank you all for your continued support and dedication. Our collective efforts will ensure that we continue to grow, innovate, and lead the way in promoting Texas as a premier travel destination.

Warm regards,

As we approach the end of another remarkable year, I want to extend my warmest holiday greetings to each of you. This season is a time for reflection, gratitude, and celebration, and I hope you all have the opportunity to enjoy it with your loved ones.

The holiday season is a special time to cherish the moments we share with family and friends. It's also a time to appreciate the beauty and diversity of our great state. From the festive lights of our cities to the serene landscapes of our countryside, Texas offers countless opportunities to create lasting memories. I encourage you all to take some time to explore and enjoy the wonders of Texas during this festive season.

Looking ahead to 2025, we are filled with optimism and excitement for the future of travel in Texas. Our state continues to be a top destination for travelers from around the world, thanks to its rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and stunning natural attractions. We anticipate a strong year for tourism, with new initiatives and partnerships aimed at enhancing the travel experience for all visitors.

Our team has been busy preparing for the upcoming 89th Legislative Session, where we will continue to advocate for policies that protect and enhance travel and tourism in Texas. We are committed to ensuring that our industry remains strong and vibrant, and we will work tirelessly to support legislation that benefits our members and the broader travel community.

Mark Your Calendars: I also want to remind everyone to mark their calendars and plan to join us in Austin on February 20th for the Texas Travel Industry Rally Day at the Capitol and the Texas Travel Industry Unity Dinner. These events are fantastic opportunities to visit with legislators and stress the importance of travel and tourism to the Texas economy. Your participation is crucial in demonstrating the collective strength and unity of our industry. Registration will open soon, so watch your inbox for more information.

As we prepare to welcome the new year, I am filled with hope and enthusiasm for what lies ahead. The Texas Travel Alliance remains committed to supporting our members and advocating for the travel industry. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that Texas remains a premier travel destination. I look forward to collaborating with all of you in the coming year to achieve our shared goals and to celebrate our collective successes.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication. Wishing you all a joyous holiday season and a prosperous new year!

Warm regards,

It's hard to believe that it is already November, and we are in the final months of 2024. At this time, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible success of our recent annual meeting, Texas Travel Summit, held October 14-16 in the vibrant city of Houston. It was a pleasure to see so many of you there, engaging in meaningful discussions and forging new connections.

A special thank you goes out to Houston First for being our presenting sponsor and graciously hosting us in your beautiful city. Your support was instrumental in making this event a very memorable one.

As we look ahead, the travel and tourism industry in Texas continues to show resilience and growth. Despite the challenges we’ve faced, our sector is bouncing back with increased travel activity and a positive outlook for the upcoming holiday season. In 2023, visitor spending contributed nearly $95 billion to the Texas economy, and the industry now employs more than 1.3 million people. We anticipate a strong finish to the year, with more travelers exploring the diverse and rich experiences our state has to offer.

Looking ahead to next year, please save the date for our Unity Dinner 2025, which will be held on February 20th in Austin. More details will be shared soon, and we look forward to another opportunity to come together and celebrate our industry. We will also host the Texas Travel Rally Day at the Capitol during the day on February 20^th to meet with legislators and talk to them about how important our industry is to Texas and each of our local economies. Mark your calendars today so you don't miss this engaging event!

I would also like to encourage you to exercise your right to vote if you didn't do so during early voting. Electing those who support travel and tourism and then forging relationships with those elected officials is crucial to the continued growth and success of our industry.  The TTA TravelPAC also plays a vital role in ensuring that our voices are heard by legislators. By contributing to the TravelPAC, you help the Texas Travel Alliance “have a seat at the table” with policymakers, advocating for the interests of our industry. This advocacy is essential for protecting our jobs and promoting the growth and sustainability of travel and tourism in Texas.

Please consider making a donation to the TravelPAC so we can continue to support the elected officials who support a strong tourism industry. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference. Together, we can ensure a thriving future for the travel and tourism industry in Texas. To donate, please visit TravelPAC donation page and select a one-time or a monthly, recurring donation in any amount you are comfortable donating.

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your dedication and hard work. Your efforts are what make our industry thrive. From our team to yours, we wish you and your families a very happy Thanksgiving filled with joy and togetherness.

As we transition into the vibrant fall season, we are reminded of the beauty and diversity that Texas offers. This time of year brings a refreshing change in scenery and a renewed sense of purpose as we look forward to the exciting events and opportunities ahead.

We are thrilled to be hosting our annual meeting, Texas Travel Summit, in Houston from October 14-16. This premier conference is a fantastic opportunity for industry professionals to network, learn from experts, and explore the latest trends and innovations in travel. Whether you’re seeking professional growth, inspiration, or new business prospects, Summit promises to be an enriching experience for all attendees. This is a can't-miss event with a fantastic lineup of industry thought leaders and experts - register today!

Looking ahead, we are also gearing up for the 89th Legislative Session in January. This Session will be crucial to advocate for policies that support and strengthen our travel industry. Your participation and engagement will be vital as we work together to ensure a prosperous future for travel in Texas. As always, we are monitoring committee meetings during the Interim and the latest summary can be found in our legislative section below.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to making Texas a top travel destination. We look forward to seeing you at the Texas Travel Summit and working alongside you in the upcoming Legislative Session.

As we transition into the vibrant fall season, I am filled with optimism and excitement for the future of our industry. The pumpkin spice lattes and cooler temperatures bring not only a refreshing change from summer, but also a renewed sense of purpose and opportunity for all of us in the travel and tourism sector.

I am thrilled to remind you that our annual meeting, Texas Travel Summit, is just around the corner. This year’s summit promises to be an exceptional event, filled with insightful sessions, networking opportunities, and the chance to celebrate our collective achievements. If you haven’t already, please make sure to register and secure your spot.

You may also show your support and showcase your business or destination by donating a package or item for our silent auction. Your participation is crucial as we come together to share knowledge, discuss challenges, and shape the future of travel in Texas.

As we navigate the evolving landscape of our industry, it is more important than ever to stay connected and informed. The fall season brings with it a host of opportunities and challenges, from adapting to new travel trends to leveraging emerging technologies. Together, we can continue to innovate and drive the growth of Texas as a premier travel destination.

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication. I look forward to seeing you at the Texas Travel Summit and working together to make this fall season a successful and memorable one for all.

As we transition from the height of summer into August, we find ourselves on the cusp of a new school season. This summer has been marked by record travel days across the state and the country, and forecasts show travel will remain strong into the fall. More on the economy below.

ADVOCACY IN ACTION: Our TTA legislative team has been hard at work throughout the summer, advocating on your behalf. Recently, we shared our mid-year legislative update, highlighting key achievements during the Interim Session. Our efforts continued with a productive meeting last week with the Economic Development and Tourism (EDT) Office leadership and ETF/MERP staff to discuss the proposed full repeal and replacement of the administrative code concerning those programs. We extend our gratitude to everyone who engaged with us on this issue. Your feedback was invaluable as our team submitted comments on the proposed rule changes. We remain committed to supporting our members and collaborating with the EDT office throughout this process, ensuring the long-term viability of these crucial programs.

Additionally, we have been following up on our June testimony to the Senate Natural Resources and Economic Development (NRED) Committee regarding Hotel Occupancy Tax use. Our team had a positive meeting with the Water Development Board staff, helping connect them with communities seeking funding for water infrastructure projects. We also identified and shared potential funding opportunities for road infrastructure projects in these communities.

ECONOMIC OPTIMISM: The latest federal economic outlook report reveals that the U.S. economy grew at an annual rate of 2.8% in the second quarter of 2024, driven by increases in consumer spending, inventory investment, and business investment. Personal income saw a modest rise of 0.2% in June 2024, reflecting continued economic resilience.

Closer to home, Texas continues to demonstrate robust economic performance. The state’s employment grew by 2.9% in July 2024, outpacing the national average. Year-to-date growth stands at 3.3%, showcasing Texas’s strong economic momentum. Read more from the Dallas Fed here.

Our colleagues at U.S. Travel have also noted that for the second month in a row, prices throughout the travel sector have fallen, making current prices more favorable for travelers. You can read their press release here.

EDUCATION & NETWORKING: The early bird rate for Texas Travel Summit ends this week, so be sure to register and secure your spot today! Summit will bring together colleagues from across the state to discuss trending industry topics and learn from experts and thought leaders in travel and tourism. If you’ve already registered, download our toolkit and post the “I’m Attending Texas Travel Summit” graphic to your social media accounts to encourage your friends and colleagues to join you in Houston this October.

As we look forward to the upcoming cooler fall months, we are filled with anticipation and excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead. Your continued support and engagement are the driving forces behind our success. Thank you for being an integral part of our community. We look forward to seeing you at the Texas Travel Summit and continuing our journey together.

Warm regards,