The positive impact of tourism became evident in Los Angeles last month when the local businesses of Santa Monica rallied together to help the victims of the three deadly fires that wiped out two LA neighborhoods.
Despite its proximity to the Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica was unaffected by the LA fires, meaning it was in a prime position to help those affected.
Nearly 30 restaurants donated 3,000 meals and more than 50 additional businesses offered free meals to first responders and evacuees. Well-known hotel brands, including the Fairmont, also offered discounted accommodation for first responders.
Last month delegates from California’s tourism industry travelled to Australia to urge the Australian tourism industry to not cancel their travel plan to LA.
“Now we’re ready for your help in Los Angeles’ recovery story. With your support, we can rise stronger and help businesses and residents that need tourism now more than ever,” Ryan Becker, senior vice president of communications and strategy, Visit California said.
The ONE message that California’s tourism industry has for Australians
