The South Dakota Department of Tourism saw positive movement in travel spending and visitation in the state this past week, despite a national downturn in consumer sentiment when it comes to the safety of travel and a belief things are going to get worse with the coronavirus.
According to Tourism’s latest COVID-19 Weekly Research Update:
- South Dakota was one of 29 states that experienced increases in hotel search and bookings over the prior week.
- The percent of American travelers who feel the pandemic will worsen over the next month increased to 61.5%.
- 45% of American travelers said this past week they won’t take a trip until a vaccine is approved and is being administered.
- 18.2% of American travelers expect they may take their next road trip in August.
- Road trips to and within South Dakota declined by 3% this week vs. the prior week.
- The US hotel occupancy rate reached an average of 48% last week, a decrease of -38% vs. prior year.
- When asked about the timing of their next international trip, a significant share of respondents are now looking at the summer of 2021.
- We have placed some new resources from the Department of Health on our COVID-19 Health and Cleaning resource page on SDVisit.com:
- ◦ COVID-19 GUIDANCE: FOOD CONCESSION STANDS FOR SCHOOLS AND TEMPORARY EVENTS
- ◦ RISKS and BENEFITS: CONSIDERATIONS FOR SOCIAL ACTIVITIES DURING COVID-19
Tourism officials remind state residents 605strong.com is available to provide mental health assistance to people struggling due to the impact of COVID-19. If you are in need of assistance, call 211 to speak with a counselor. Asking for help is a positive step for you and those you care about to help with depression, anxiety and stress.
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