Houston Tourism is Booming
Houston continues to be a destination for travelers of all types. With the Medical Center and the evolving technology corridor, business travel is a given, but judging by the numbers, tourism is also strong. 2017 saw a 6 percent increase in pleasure travel to the city, with more than 21 million domestic and international tourists coming primarily for leisure activities.
Professional sports like the World Series and Super Bowl LI drew crowds from across the nation as well as Mexico, and conventions topped the numbers for business travel, with almost a million nights booked in support of business travel in 2017. Tourism in general figures highly in the region’s economy as Houston supports 140K jobs in hospitality and tourism-related industries, contributing $16.5 billion to the city annually.
Houston’s diversity appeals to a global demographic
With more than 145 languages spoken among a population of 2.3 million, you could say that Houston is one of the most culturally diverse cities in America. More than one-third of Houston households speak a language other than English at home – but this is nothing new. Houston has eighteen sister-city connections across the globe, its oldest relationship being with Taipei, Taiwan, which has been in place since 1961; its newest, with Basra, Iraq, was established in 2015.
Such wide-ranging global interests mean that you don’t have to go far to enjoy a wide range of international flavors. With more than 10 thousand restaurants in Houston, just about any palate can be tempted with cuisines from 70 different cultures – including regional American favorites like the low-and-slow barbeque that Texas is famous for.
Breaking records despite Harvey
Despite the devastation caused by hurricane Harvey, Houston continues to be at the forefront of business and pleasure travel. Houston First Corporation, which encompasses the Greater Houston Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, reported numbers for 2017 that surpassed all estimates in terms of conventions and meetings booked. With an almost 50 percent increase in room nights booked over 2015, the momentum is growing and continues to drive forward with no slowing down in sight.
Some of the factors encouraging such a surge in tourism include the revitalization of nearly two-million square feet of the George R. Brown Convention Center as well as the opening of the spectacular $370 million Marriott Marquis Houston Downtown. With more than 100 thousand square feet of meeting space, six destination restaurants, and a 39 thousand square-foot ballroom, the new Marriott property is as opulent as it is welcoming, standing as a testament to the city’s future as a business hub and pleasure destination.
In true Texan style, these properties can accommodate crowds as large as the city itself, speaking to the Houston First’s vision of a bright future ahead.
Thinking of visiting Houston?
Luxurway is your home away from home in Houston. Our private fully furnished rental homes are beautifully appointed, located in convenient neighborhoods, and tailored to elegant family living. If you are visiting Houston for business or pleasure, consider one of our fabulous residences for your stay. Browse our properties now or call 713-205-1030 to speak to an agent to learn more.