Update July 8th: Statistically, 88% occupancy was below expectations. All the same, local business owners seem to be very happy with the turnout.
According to the Clay Brittain Jr. Center for Resort Tourism, occupancy was actually down compared to their study of the same weekend last year. Occupancy was down 2.9% but revenue per available room was up 3.5%. See the full summary here.
The Sun News didn't just rely on Clay Brittain Center numbers, which typically samples a small portion of hotels, they actually interviewed representatives from Ocean Lakes, Oceana Resorts, and MYR International Airport. Everyone sounds pleased. WBTW also had a similar piece this morning. That's here.
First Report: This is a severe tourism advisory in effect for our area. Forecasters predict poor driving and mass quantities of fried seafood. Locals should prepare and plan accordingly!
The good news is revenues should be just as high as the occupancy rate. Contributing factors cited are the July 4th holiday falling on a Monday and great gas prices. Dawn Bryant has a full rundown on The Sun News website. Read it here. WMBF also has a video package with more information. See it here.
