- Categories:
- Special Interest
- Tags:
- ActivitiesInternational
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every May 6
- Holiday emoji:
- ✈️
National Tourist Appreciation Day arrives every May 6, acknowledging the significant impact tourists have on local economies and cultures. Take a moment to recognize the value visitors bring, whether through direct spending or cultural exchange. Plan a local event, offer a special discount, or simply welcome a traveler with a friendly face.
Want to sponsor National Tourist Appreciation Day? Learn how
Expected National Tourist Appreciation Day Deals
On National Tourist Appreciation Day, expect local businesses to roll out special offers and appreciation programs rather than major sales. Hotels like Marriott and Hilton might offer loyalty bonuses or welcome amenities to guests checking in. Local restaurants and attractions could provide small discounts or complimentary items to visitors. Tourism boards, such as Visit Florida or Discover Puerto Rico, often use the day to launch campaigns highlighting the economic benefits of tourism and encouraging local hospitality. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as May 6 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Tourist Appreciation Day
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #TouristAppreciationDay. Share insights on the economic impact of tourism or highlight local businesses benefiting from visitors.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #TouristAppreciationDay. Post photos or reels showcasing beautiful local destinations and welcoming messages to visitors.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #TouristAppreciationDay. Create a community post asking locals to share positive experiences with tourists or favorite local spots to recommend.
National Tourist Appreciation Day Hero
Thomas Cook
National Tourist Appreciation Day timeline
The term ‘tour’ is first used, soon followed by the term ‘tourist,’ referring to participants of tourist events.
The first tourist trip by the steamship Great Western is the launching point for the development of sea cruises.
As the oldest travel company in the world, the Thomas Cook Company initiates organized tourism.
The United Nations establishes the World Tourist Organization (UNWTO).
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Tourist Appreciation Day
Local businesses can genuinely celebrate National Tourist Appreciation Day by offering small, thoughtful gestures. Restaurants might provide a complimentary appetizer or dessert to out-of-town guests with a valid ID, while local shops could offer a ‘visitor’s discount’ on unique souvenirs. Hotels can enhance guest experiences with special welcome notes or local guidebooks. The key is to convey genuine gratitude for the economic and cultural vibrancy tourists bring to the community, fostering goodwill and encouraging return visits.
National Tourist Appreciation Day FAQs
When is National Tourist Appreciation Day?
In 2027, National Tourist Appreciation Day will be observed on Thursday, May 6. This annual observance is a chance to reflect on the global impact of travel and hospitality.
What is the economic impact of tourism?
Globally, the travel and tourism sector is projected to continue its strong recovery, with forecasts suggesting a return to pre-pandemic levels and beyond. This growth translates into significant job creation and economic development for many nations.
How many people travel internationally each year?
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) anticipates continued robust growth in international travel, with figures expected to surpass 2019 levels. This reflects a strong rebound in leisure and business travel across all regions.
What is the difference between a tourist and a traveler?
The distinction is largely semantic; both tourists and travelers contribute to the local economy and cultural exchange. The term ‘tourist’ often carries a connotation of visiting popular sights, whereas ‘traveler’ suggests a desire for off-the-beaten-path experiences.
National Tourist Appreciation Day Activities
Get some tourist garb
With a little work, you could have your very own tourist "costume." Not that it'll be an everyday outfit, but when you decide to pack up and go, you'll be surprised how much stress you'll avoid by having bought it all already.
Go somewhere new
Get your inner-tourist on! National Tourism Day is the perfect excuse to book that trip you've been talking about for years. Grand Canyon? Do it!
Make a list of dream destinations
While some of the best trips can be spontaneous, there's good reason for extensive planning, too. If hopping on a jet today just isn't in the cards, start thinking about where you'd go right now if you could!
Why We Love National Tourist Appreciation Day
They opt for function over fashion
This can be summed up in two words: fanny packs. They're the classic example of something that everyone acknowledges as useful, but no one wants to be caught dead using. But when we're abroad? Strap on that fanny pack, grab your embarrassingly large hats, and wear them proud!
They're adventurous
You'll have a hard time find a tourist who doesn't like to do new things. It sort-of comes with the territory — so if you're looking for an out-of-the-box time, head to where the travelers go!
They spend money
There's no debate here — tourists spend money. A lot of money. In 2016, more tourists visited Bangkok, Thailand than any other city in the world. According to MasterCard's Global Destination Cities Index from 2016, travelers spent nearly $15 billion in the popular destination last year. That's more than enough to build three replicas of NYC's One World Trade Center building (what WSJ calls "by far the word's most expensive new office tower"), and still have a whole bunch left over.
Social Media Tips for National Tourist Appreciation Day
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