Dawit Habtemariam

Dec 11, 2024 | outcoast.com | Dawit Habtemariam

Visit Florida has announced that its CEO and president, Dana Young, will retire. Young was appointed to lead the agency in January 2019 by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis shortly after he took office. She plans to remain as the organization’s president and CEO until her replacement is appointed and onboarded. During her tenure, visitation rose 7.3% and economic impact grew 32.4%.

Oct 25, 2024 | skift.com | Dawit Habtemariam

Skift Take After dipping their toes in the waters of tourist management, Venice's officials are now diving in headfirst with entry fees on 54 days next year. Want to do a quick Instagram tour of St. Mark's Square? That'll be €5, grazie mille. Key PointsVenice is expanding its tourist entry fee program to 54 days in 2025 after a successful trial. Day-trippers will pay a fee of €5 or €10, depending on booking time, with enforcement through QR code checks.

Oct 25, 2024 | skift.com | Dawit Habtemariam

Skift Take Maui is still healing from the tragic wildfire that occurred over a year ago. Governor Josh Green hopes the incoming $5 billion in relief, along with support from the tourism industry, will supercharge the recovery. Key PointsHawaii Governor Josh Green outlines plans to rebuild Maui with $5 billion in government spending, focusing on climate resilience and sports tourism.

Oct 24, 2024 | skift.com | Dawit Habtemariam

Skift Take Malaga's politicians are aiming to relieve the strain on affordable housing by tightening regulations on short-term rentals. However, given the current popularity of southern Spain, this move could shift the pressure to nearby destinations. Key PointsMalaga, Spain, will ban short-term rental registrations in 43 neighborhoods where such rentals exceed 8% of homes. The restrictions, effective from November, aim to last up to five years and follow similar measures in cities like Barcelona.

Oct 22, 2024 | skift.com | Dawit Habtemariam

Skift Take Julie Coker is trading San Diego's fish tacos for New York City's dollar slices by becoming NYC's new tourism champion. Coker is taking the reins from Fred Dixon, who bounced to Brand USA. Key PointsJulie Coker has been appointed as the new president and CEO of NYC Tourism + Conventions, starting December 9. Coker has extensive experience in tourism leadership, previously serving as the CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority and the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau.