Wednesday, January 31, 2024
The Utah Office of Tourism successfully concluded a successful three-city sales mission in India, garnering attention from over 250 travel trade partners and media in Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai. The event aimed to showcase Utah as an enticing tourism destination for Indian travelers seeking diverse and captivating experiences in the USA.
The mission, centered on re-establishing ties with the Indian travel market, highlighted Utah’s expansive natural landscapes and national parks, catering to hikers and road trippers. Beyond outdoor enthusiasts, Utah offers premier skiing resorts for ski enthusiasts and access to dark sky parks for stargazers.
While addressing the travel trade partners and media during the events, Zach Fyne, Global Markets Specialist at Utah Office of Tourism highlighted that India is a primary emerging market with substantial growth potential. He said, “India stands out as one of the most stable tourism markets, showcasing remarkable resilience amidst global fluctuations. Utah’s positioning among the top 10 destinations for Indian visitors reflects the tremendous potential and appeal our state holds. From the breath-taking beauty of our Mighty 5® national parks, 46 state parks, to the unparalleled skiing experiences at our world-class resorts, stargazing in internationally recognized dark sky areas, and indulging in premier glamping options, Utah promises a diverse range of experiences for travellers of all ages. Together with AVIAREPS, we intend to elevate and enrich the travel experiences of Indian visitors, encouraging extended stays and increased spending in the state.”
In 2022, Indian visitors significantly contributed to Utah’s economy, injecting USD 8.7 million and averaging USD 2,391.95 per visitor. The state witnessed a 5% increase in Indian visits compared to 2019, totaling around 8,700 visits. Looking forward, Utah anticipates a substantial 42.6% rise in Indian visitation and an impressive 203.9% surge in projected visitor spending from 2019 to 2027.
Utah caters to diverse preferences in the Indian market, offering options from luxury to budget travel, and adventure to wildlife experiences. Whether exploring the iconic Mighty 5® national parks—Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion—or indulging in luxurious glamping experiences, Utah provides unmatched opportunities for Indian families and travelers, creating a wealth of enduring memories.
What’s Happening in Utah
Celebrating 100 Years of Film and Television
In 2024, Utah commemorates a century since the inception of its film industry. Throughout the year, the state will host a series of exhibits, events, and film screenings, honoring its rich cinematic heritage.
THE NEW SLC
Utah’s Salt Lake City International Airport underwent a groundbreaking USD $5.1 billion reconstruction, establishing it as the first new U.S. hub airport of the 21st century. With 76 new gates and an additional 16 set to open in 2024, the airport now facilitates 320 daily departures to over 90 nonstop destinations.
Winter Olympics 2034
Salt Lake City has been chosen as the preferred host for the 2034 Winter Olympics, building on its successful staging of the 19th Olympic Winter Games in 2002, widely regarded as one of the most successful in Olympic history.
Rocky Mountaineer
Introducing the new train journey originating in Denver, traversing the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, making a stop in the hot spring town of Glenwood Springs, and concluding the next day in Moab—a route named Rockies to the Red Rocks.
Salt Lake Temple Renovation
Serving as the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Salt Lake City is undergoing a six-year renovation of the iconic Salt Lake Temple, initiated in 2020. Non-members of the LDS faith will have a unique opportunity to tour the temple briefly in 2026 before its re-dedication.
Black Desert Resort
A USD $2 billion golfing, retail, and hospitality haven is taking shape in Ivins, featuring the Black Desert Championship Host for the PGA Tour in Fall 2024 and hosting LPGA Tour competition in 2025.
Major Terrain Expansion-Deer Valley Resort
Deer Valley Resort is poised to more than double its skiable acres starting Winter 25/26, emerging as one of the largest ski resorts in North America. The expansion includes a new village, improved resort access, and expanded offerings in lodging, dining, and retail.
Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase
Achieving DarkSky certification in August 2023, Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase became the world’s first resort with this distinction. Utah, home to the highest concentration of dark sky parks globally, continues to captivate stargazing enthusiasts.
These developments solidify Utah’s standing as a premier destination, offering a range of experiences for both travelers and residents.
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
