New York State Tourism Industry Association

06/09/2024

🔔 Book your 1:1 Networking Sessions to meet, learn from, and engage with tourism professionals across the state and country at the 2024 NYSTIA Annual Meeting!

➡️ Book your sessions: https://bit.ly/4dVKyPo

"I’ve solved problems at the one-on-one sessions; There are a lot of sharp minds in there and—without the pressure of a sales pitch—it’s a relaxed way to get caught up, learn about something new, and see what else is out there. I actually look forward to them!" - Corey Fram, 1000 Islands International Tourism Council

"1:1s are a great way to discover emerging tech that helps us work smarter, not harder. They’re a no-pressure way for us to connect with solution providers outside of the typical workday when taking sales calls is challenging, at best. I leave with a menu of options from companies I already have a baseline level of trust in, knowing that NYSTIA has vetted them in advance." - Cassandra Harrington, Destination Marketing Corp.

03/09/2024

We can't wait to see you next week in Saratoga Springs for a historic 2024 NYSTIA Annual Meeting & New York State Tourism Excellence Awards! 🏆 Get ready for and make the most of your trip:

🇺🇸 Arriving Wednesday, September 12? Register to be a part of the FREE 250th Commemoration Summit packed with celebrations, remarks from state organizations, & more!

🚌 Choose between two FREE FAM Tours held on Wednesday afternoon after the 250th Commemoration Summit and explore the sights and attractions of Saratoga Springs! After, you're invited to join us on the first-ever "Saratoga Stakes" presented by Workshop.

🤝 Book your 1:1 Networking Sessions! Spend valuable one-on-one time with our partners and solutions providers to get acquainted with their multifaceted services and discuss your destination/organization's needs. Gain insights on the tools, strategies, and technology available to assist you in meeting your destination marketing and management goals in 2024 and beyond!

🍽️ Make dinner reservations for Wednesday & Thursday evenings in Saratoga Springs! Check out the list of restaurants and bars provided by Discover Saratoga and start planning your culinary exploration through this historic city.

Sep 3, 2024 Back to Industry News Become a Member Join us on our journey to shape a better future for New York State's communities and residents! We can't wait to see you next week in Saratoga Springs for a historic 2024 NYSTIA Annual Meeting & New York State Tourism Excellence Awards! Get ready for...

01/09/2024

We would like to thank and for providing reusable bags for the Tourism Champions Booth at the . Allowing Fairgoers to explore even more New York State Vacation Destinations! If your at the NYS Fair, make sure to check out the New York Power Authority and Canals exhibit in Center For Progress!

31/08/2024

Day 10 of we had Kaytlynn Lynch with , Nancy Ragus with the and Linda Forsythe with . They talked to fairgoers about the great places to explore in central New York, along Lake Ontario and attractions across the state on the New York Fiber Trail!

30/08/2024

On day 9 of the Patti Rose with was in the booth with us. She discussed Canandaigua, Geneva, and the northern Finger Lakes with fairgoers.

30/08/2024

🗣️ 250 Commemoration Summit Speaker Announcement:

Join us Wednesday morning at the 250 Commemoration Summit to hear Melaine Rottkamp, CDME, President & CEO at Tourism, Inc., Thomas Mooney, Principle & Chief Creative at FourthIdea and William P Tatum III, Dutchess County Historian present how Dutchess County created a big impact with "Tiny George."

➡️ https://bit.ly/4g71qUD

Launched Presidents’ Day weekend, Dutchess County’s Commander-in-Cheers program is quite literally ‘Revolutionary’. Delivered through QR codes on coasters in taverns, tasting rooms and restaurants, a tiny hologram of George Washington himself appears to tell tales of Dutchess County’s role in the revolution. This innovative augmented reality initiative created by Dutchess Tourism working closely with the Dutchess County Historian, the creative minds at FourthIdea and tech experts Evercoast, sparked excitement and new engagement with the county’s Revolutionary War history.

29/08/2024

Day 8 of the we had Kelly Jordal, Jen Longley, and Savannah Wycoff with who talked to fairgoers about Oswego County and the Thousand Islands-Seaway region. Pam Renfro with also joined us to discuss the Fiber Trail across New York State.

28/08/2024

Day 7 of The Great New York State Fair we had Patrick Keyes with Rainbow Air Inc. and Sarah Braddon with Visit Finger Lakes. They discussed touring Niagara Falls via helicopter and the great destinations in the Finger Lakes with fairgoers.

28/08/2024

"I’m excited to share that Advance Media New York will once again be the presenting sponsor of the 2024 NYSTIA Annual Meeting & New York State Tourism Excellence Awards in picturesque Saratoga Springs, NY!

The Tourism Excellence Awards celebrate the most creative and successful campaigns, publications, individuals, and projects from across the state. This event always inspires us to strive for excellence, adopt best practices, and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Our team at Advance Media NY, a full-service advertising and marketing agency, applauds all organizations who submitted entries for the awards. Our friends and clients across the state have done amazing work and Advance Media NY will showcase the winners in a video tribute produced by our award-winning creative team at the Tourism Excellence Awards ceremony on September 12.

The annual meeting is the premier event for gaining industry insights and inspiration. It’s a fantastic opportunity to network with some of the brightest minds, most experienced professionals, and trendsetting thought leaders in the tourism industry. New York Tourism organizations truly bring their best to this event.

This September, treat yourself to a visit to Saratoga Springs, where history, arts, culture, and natural beauty await you. Join me and be inspired by the innovative and highly successful Tourism Excellence Award recipients. Don’t miss out!"

- Bridget Cerrone
Senior Travel Marketing Strategist
Advance Media New York

We're thrilled to announce, that after consulting with the NYSTIA Events Committee and Tourism Excellence Awards Committee, the 2024 NYS Tourism Excellence Awards Ceremony & Reception will be held at the iconic and beautiful Canfield Casino, nestled in the heart of Congress Park!

27/08/2024

On day 6 of The Great New York State Fair we had Theresa VanWormer from Visit Finger Lakes Lakes and Jessie McNaughton from The New York Fiber trail. They spoke to fairgoers about exciting things to do in the Finger Lakes and along the Fiber Trail across New York state!

26/08/2024

Over the first weekend of the Fair, we saw the biggest crowds yet! Fairgoers loved the new booth elements and asked about all the different New York Tourism Champion destinations across the state!

24/08/2024

Day Three of we had Nancy Ragus with in the Tourism Champions booth. She discussed the impact of the yarn and the fiber industry across the state while driving business to rural fiber farming destinations!

24/08/2024

We had a successful Day Two at the The Great New York State Fair! Thank you to Lisa Gray and David Owens with Oswego County, NY for their help in the Tourism Champions Booth. Where they talked to the fairgoers about Oswego county's great outdoor adventure opportunities!

23/08/2024

On Day One of , Lindsey Babbles with the joined us in the Tourism Champions booth. Discussing the Finger Lakes and all the great attractions and events in Skaneateles!

23/08/2024

Kicking off Day 1 of the The Great New York State Fair with our new photo booth by 📸 in our Tourism Champions Booth!
Fairgoers instantly loved getting their photos taken with different backgrounds featuring New York destinations.

07/08/2024

The Nominating Committee of the New York State Tourism Industry Association (NYSTIA) is seeking individuals interested in serving on the association's Board of Directors. Will you put your expertise, enthusiasm and experience to work for the advancement New York State's industry and your NYSTIA colleagues?

🗳️ Nominate by August 23!

The Nominating Committee of the New York State Tourism Industry Association (NYSTIA) is seeking individuals interested in serving on the association's Board of Directors. Will you put your expertise, enthusiasm and experience to work for the advancement New York State's tourism industry and your NYS...

26/06/2024

📣 Call for Proposals! Webinars/Workshops & Case Studies

Do you have a best practice case study that you would like to share in Saratoga Springs at the NYSTIA Annual Meeting and/or as a Wednesday Webinar in Fall 2024? We encourage you to use this opportunity to demonstrate knowledge, expertise, and efficacy to your tourism friends and colleagues! All are welcome to submit. The Wednesday Webinar Series will pick up from 9:15 am to 9:45 am, September 18 to December 11, 2024.

Proposals must be received by July 15 to be considered for the webinar series and the September event. Submit now!

19/06/2024

Last week, we shared that the New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association-led industry coalition succeeded after a multi-year effort! The bill to regulate short-term rentals in New York State has passed both houses of the legislature. 🎉

After a tremendous effort this session led by Mark Dorr at NYSHTA, the bill to regulate short-term rentals in New York State has passed both houses of the legislature (FINALLY). The bill requires the State to create a registry and collect sales and occupancy taxes.

Members of the NYSTIA Advocacy Committee (Jeff Shipley, Edward A T Carr, Josiah Brown), Board Chair Corey Fram, Vice Chair-Elect Gregory L. LaDuca, Board Secretary Cass Harrington, and President Bob Provost participated in the NYSHTA-led legislative meetings as well as follow-up calls and conversations in support of the legislation.

👉 https://www.nystia.org/news/new-york-state-legislature-passes-short-term-rental-legislation

11/06/2024

Many of our members had already heard about the efforts to create a National Marine Sanctuary (New York's first) along New York's Lake Ontario coastline at the 2023 New York State Tourism Conference in Oswego. We are delighted to share that last week, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) officially designated the Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary! 🎉

Oswego County Administrator Phil Church graciously agreed to share these comments with NYSTIA colleagues:

"After 10 years, it's tempting to think of today as a climax, as a culminating reward, as an ending. But that’s not how we think. Now the truly rewarding effort begins as our local communities begin working in partnership with federal and state agencies to realize the sanctuary’s promise. The education and understanding, the research and collaboration, the economic opportunities, and the adventures… it all lies before us. Not the end. It’s just the beginning of the great Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary!" - Phil Church, Oswego County Administrator

Jun 5, 2024 Back to Industry News Become a Member Join us on our journey to shape a better future for New York State's communities and residents! A note from Bob Provost: Many of our members had already heard about the efforts to create a National Marine Sanctuary (New York's first) along New York's...

28/05/2024

🔔 Registration is now open! Join us for the 2024 NYSTIA Annual Meeting & New York State Tourism Excellence Awards in beautiful Saratoga Springs, NY. This premier event is your chance to gain industry insights and inspiration while networking with some of the best minds, most experienced individuals, and trendsetting thought leaders in the tourism industry.

Delve into the latest trends and innovations shaping the future of tourism! Gain actionable insights and fresh perspectives on best practices from Tourism Excellence Awards winners, strategies for boosting international inbound tourism, preparations for America's 250th celebrations, and more. Connect with peers, industry veterans, and thought leaders during dedicated networking sessions. Build valuable relationships that can lead to new partnerships, collaborations, and growth.

Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your knowledge, expand your network, and celebrate the best in New York State tourism at the 2024 NYSTIA Annual Meeting & New York State Tourism Excellence Awards! 🏆

Join us in Saratoga Springs this September 11-13!

23/05/2024

⏰ The deadline to nominate for the 2024 NYS Tourism Excellence Awards is this Saturday, May 25! Don't miss out on this once-a-year opportunity to recognize the amazing work you and your colleagues do every day to advance New York State tourism.

Nominate your own organization, a leader, a partner in your county, or a colleague deserving of recognition. Let us know what you and your team have been up to, or let someone know how much you appreciate their hard work!

🏆https://bit.ly/2024NYSTEA

22/05/2024

🏆🚨 Last Call for Nominations! 🚨🏆

The deadline to nominate for the 2024 NYS Tourism Excellence Awards is this Saturday, May 25! Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to recognize the outstanding contributions to New York State's tourism industry.

⏰Nominate Now! https://bit.ly/2024NYSTEA

16/05/2024

Need inspiration for your 2024 NYS Tourism Excellence Awards submission? Check out our examples of previous winning nominations! Let their success stories ignite your creativity and guide you through the submission process. 📝💡

🏆 https://bit.ly/2024NYSTEA

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to celebrate excellence in New York State tourism! You do not have to be a member of NYSTIA to nominate or be nominated.

Nominations Deadline: Saturday, May 25

The Nominations Portal can only upload files less than 5 MB. Documentation materials (.pdf, .mov, etc) can be provided in the online nomination form using links of file sharing services (Dropbox, WeTransfer, etc.)

15/05/2024

⏰ Free Webinar at Noon Today: Generating ROI with International Students/Workers

👉Register Now: https://bit.ly/3QQa2nB

Join us at noon today for a workforce development webinar on the use of the J1 program and how it can help your organization. This webinar will be presented by Chad Hendricks, President of Experienced Associates LLC, and Scott Swagler, General Manager of the Doubletree by Hilton Niagara Falls, NY, with insights from our NYSTIA Workforce Development Task Force.

The webinar will also examine the impact of foreign exchange in New York State - a 5+ billion dollar market! You'll learn what the J1 program is, how the program works and its processes, the ROI of using the program for your organization and the economy, and take a look at a few case studies.

When: Today, May 15 at 12:00 pm E.T.
Cost: Free!

Please share this invite! The NYSTIA Lunch & Learn Webinars are open to all NYSTIA members and their guests.

14/05/2024

⏰ Don't wait — there are less than 2 weeks left to nominate for the 2024 NYS Tourism Excellence Awards! Deadline: Saturday, May 25

Nominate a New York State tourism professional, organization or solutions provider in one of the many awards categories: https://bit.ly/NYSTEA24

🏆 Excellence in Overall Tourism Marketing
🏆 Excellence in Tourism Marketing Campaigns, Projects & Programs (with multiple subcategories: digital marketing campaigns, visitor service, trails/itineraries, and more!)
🏆 Excellence in Tourism Stewardship: Shaping A Better Future
🏆 Excellence in Leadership: Career/Lifetime Achievement
🏆 Excellence in Young Professional Leadership
🏆 The New Yorker Award
🏆 Excellence in Tourism Equity & Inclusion
🏆 Excellence in Sustainable Stewardship: Champions of Change
🏆 Excellence in International Tourism Marketing: New York Tourism Ambassador

The Awards are open to the entire tourism industry of New York State! You need not be a member of NYSTIA to nominate or be nominated.

You can check out the awards nominations portal for examples of past winners, and prep documents to make your nomination process even easier.

Nominate now: https://bit.ly/NYSTEA24

09/05/2024

Take Action on NYSTIA's new and improved NYSTIA Action Center! 👉https://bit.ly/AdvocacyNYSTIA

Whether you want to contact officials directly, support advocacy issues from tourism peers and colleagues, view active bills, and more, the NYSTIA Tourism Advocacy Center & Resources is your gateway to connecting with state and federal representatives and legislators to advocate for issues.

Current issues are in urgent need of your support:

✈️ U.S. TRAVEL REQUEST: Tell Congress to Protect TSA PreCheck and Lower Security Wait Times - NYSTIA's liaison to US Travel Edward A T Carr (Discover Long Island) stated, "It's paramount that DMOs and tourism partners contact their Federal representatives to oppose this amendment. Other nations are implementing biometrics at airport checkpoints, and for the US to ban this technology over privacy concerns will simply set us back as a destination."

🇺🇸 Urge Congress to Support Funding for America's 250th Celebrations (before it's too late!) - Congress needs to plan NOW to provide funding in the 2025 budget to support the proposed commemorative programming for 2026 and beyond. Let them know this is important to you.

Contact Rachele Markle if you would like to share your organization's advocacy action items with NYSTIA members, or if you'd like to join NYSTIA's Advocacy Committee!

08/05/2024

⏰ Free Webinar at Noon Today: The ABCs of ChatGPT

Matt Rocha, Account Executive of Travel & Tourism at Aki Technologies, will lead a hands-on workshop where you'll master practical applications of generative , transforming how you engage with tourists and create compelling marketing content.

Learn by doing as you follow along with live demonstrations to immediately implement AI tools that enhance customer experiences and streamline your daily tasks. Leave empowered with the know-how to revolutionize your approach to tourism in New York with cutting-edge AI strategies that you can apply right away!

When: Wednesday, May 8 at 12:00 pm E.T.
Cost: Free!

Please share this invite! The NYSTIA Lunch & Learn Webinars are open to all NYSTIA members and their guests.

02/05/2024

You're Invited: Join NYSTIA's DEAI Committee! 🤝

NYSTIA acknowledges and advocates the need to cultivate diversity, equitability, accessibility and inclusion (DEAI) of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries of New York State. We encourage, equip and solicit best practices in workforce development, board building, and marketing and welcoming to diverse audiences (customers, visitors and guests).

Learn more & join: https://bit.ly/4bkyx43

NYSTIA's DEAI Committee meets virtually on the last Friday of every month to discuss new initiatives and outcomes, plan future events, share DEAI resources and New York State case studies, present on panels, and more. NYSTIA's DEAI Committee is open to all NYSTIA members!

Mar 29, 2024 Back to Industry News 2024 NYS Tourism Conference Register Now! April 17-19 | Niagara Falls, NY 2024 NYS Tourism Excellence Awards Call for Nominations! Become a Member Join us on our journey to shape a better future for New York State's communities and residents! All are welcome! NYSTI...

30/04/2024

📣 TOMORROW: Unlocking the Power of DEI in Tourism Marketing - NYSTIA Lunch & Learn Webinar

Cassandra Razzi Senior Digital Sales Manager at Orange 142 will discuss understanding DEI, why DEI matters, and stats about New York State diversity. She will then go on to give examples and best practices, a case study, and key takeaways.

👉 Register Now: https://bit.ly/4b8xft0

- Gain a better understanding of what DEI is and why it matters
- How to be sensitive towards other cultures and avoid tokenization
- How you can test your advertising before you launch it

When: Wednesday, May 1 at 12:00 pm E.T.
Cost: Free! Register now: https://bit.ly/4b8xft0

Please share this invite! The NYSTIA Lunch & Learn Webinars are open to all NYSTIA members and their guests.

Apr 29, 2024 Back to Industry News 2024 NYS Tourism Excellence Awards Call for Nominations! Become a Member Join us on our journey to shape a better future for New York State's communities and residents! Unlocking the Power of DEI in Tourism Marketing Wednesday, May 1 at 12:00 pm E.T. Cassandra Razz...