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Louisiana Office of Tourism Launches Inaugural Sales Mission to India, Aiming to Enhance Destination Awareness and Attract Indian Travelers to Experience the State’s Unique Culture and Offerings
Friday, September 27, 2024
The Louisiana Office of Tourism recently undertook its inaugural mission to India, specifically targeting the bustling cities of Mumbai and New Delhi. The mission aimed to bolster awareness of Louisiana as a travel destination among Indian travelers and media professionals. Led by the Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana and the Assistant Secretary of Tourism, the delegation included representatives from regional tourism partners such as Visit Lake Charles, New Orleans & Company, and Mississippi River Country.
Rising Indian Visitor Numbers
In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the number of Indian visitors to the USA. Following a swift recovery in 2023, visitor arrivals surpassed pre-pandemic levels. From January to July 2024, arrivals from India to the USA experienced a remarkable growth of 35%, positioning India as the second-largest overseas market for American tourism. This trend holds significant implications for the travel industry, particularly for destinations like Louisiana, which offers a blend of cultural experiences, unique cuisines, music, and vibrant festivals—qualities that resonate well with Indian travelers planning their holidays in the U.S.
The mission was supported by a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce, designed to facilitate market development through collaborative efforts with U.S. Commercial Services and the U.S. Embassy. This initiative represents part of the International Travel Office’s broader strategy to engage international travelers, emphasizing the importance of diversifying tourist demographics.
Accessibility of Louisiana
Geographically, Louisiana is strategically located in the Southeastern United States, with convenient access from major gateway cities such as New York, Newark, Chicago, Houston, Dallas, and Atlanta. The primary air travel gateway to Louisiana is New Orleans, where the newly renovated Louis Armstrong International Airport serves as a crucial hub. This accessibility allows Indian travelers from cities like Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai to plan visits with relative ease.
The year 2024 marks a special celebration for Louisiana …
