Orlando tourism chiefs are “cautiously optimistic” about ongoing growth from the UK.
The number of direct flight seats from the UK to Orlando in 2016 was up 11% on last year, with the number of seats currently allocated for the first six months of 2017 up 2% on the same period in 2016.
Denise Spiegel, senior director of public relations for Visit Orlando, said: “We have challenges around currency but we have so much product which aligns well with the UK market that we are cautiously optimistic.”
Spiegel said there was an increasing focus on three and four-star properties to demonstrate the value options available in Orlando, and also pointed to a recent Post Office survey which listed Orlando as the only US destination in its top 10 best value destinations.
In addition to a raft of new attractions and accommodation options being opened in Orlando’s main theme parks, the city is also developing its reputation as a sports hub, with the US Tennis Association moving its headquarters to a newly built facility, and the Orlando City soccer team also soon to move into a purpose-built stadium.
Visit Orlando will hold its tenth annual Megafam for the UK trade next year, and is also encouraging agents to promote its new destination app to add value for clients.