Hawaii Tourism Authority: An Overview
If you have ever visited Hawaii, chances are you have heard of the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA). The HTA is a state agency that is responsible for managing and promoting tourism in the Hawaiian Islands. In this article, we’ll explore what the HTA is, its mission, and how it works to promote tourism in Hawaii.
What Is the Hawaii Tourism Authority?
The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) was established in 1998 as a state agency to manage and promote tourism in Hawaii. The organization is governed by a board of directors appointed by the governor of Hawaii and confirmed by the state Senate.
The HTA’s primary mission is to attract visitors to the Hawaiian Islands while also supporting the local economy. The organization achieves this through a variety of marketing and promotional activities, as well as partnerships with local businesses and community organizations.
The HTA’s Mission
The HTA’s mission is to “manage tourism growth in a sustainable manner consistent with economic goals, cultural values, preservation of natural resources, community desires, and visitor industry needs.” This means that the organization aims to promote tourism while also ensuring that it does not negatively impact the environment or local communities.
The HTA also works to support local businesses by promoting their products and services to visitors. By doing so, it helps to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in Hawaii.
How Does the HTA Promote Tourism?
The HTA promotes tourism through a variety of marketing and promotional activities. These include:
- Advertising campaigns: The HTA runs advertising campaigns on TV, radio, print media, and online platforms to promote Hawaii as a tourist destination.
- Public relations: The organization works with journalists and media outlets to secure coverage of Hawaii as a travel destination.
- Trade shows and events: The HTA participates in travel trade shows and events around the world to promote Hawaii to travel agents and tour operators.
- Social media: The organization uses social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to engage with potential visitors and promote Hawaii as a destination.
The Impact of the HTA
The HTA has had a significant impact on Hawaii’s tourism industry. In 2019, the state welcomed over 10 million visitors, who spent a total of $17.8 billion. This generated over $2 billion in tax revenue for the state.
The organization has also helped to create jobs and support local businesses. In 2019, the tourism industry employed over 216,000 people in Hawaii.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Hawaii Tourism Authority is an essential organization that plays a crucial role in promoting tourism in Hawaii while also supporting local businesses and communities. Through its marketing and promotional activities, the HTA has helped to attract millions of visitors to the Hawaiian Islands while also generating significant economic benefits for the state.