Tourism Goals & Results 2021

■ GOAL: Increase VisaVue cardholder count by 10% over Quarter 3 of 2020 by the end of 2021.

RESULTS: The increase of 32% for 2021 over the third quarter of 2020 was made possible by the ease on international travel restrictions as well as positioning Lake Charles as a safe place to visit featuring outdoor attractions, like the Creole Nature Trail, which grew in popularity during the pandemic. Constant and open communication about local health guidelines was also key in gaining international traveler confidence.

■ GOAL: Maintain established relationships by averaging 40 contacts per month with both domestic and international operators.

RESULTS: The average contacts per month was at 28, which was impacted by tradeshows that continued to postpone, cancel, or hold virtual options throughout 2021. The Delta Variant played a large role in lower show attendance by domestic and international operators.

■ GOAL: Increase international media exposure by 5% over 2019 based on Meltwater data.

RESULTS: The increase in international media exposure based on Meltwater data was at 57% when comparing 2021 to 2019. One reason for the high increase is that the storms of 2020 greatly elevated Lake Charles on the international stage for recovery, funding, and human interest stories.

■ GOAL: Work with existing motor coach tours to retain activities within the 5-parish Imperial Calcasieu region until Southwest Louisiana amenities are available.

RESULTS: With the loss of the Mardi Gras Museum and large portions of the Creole Nature Trail due to the storms of 2020, Visit Lake Charles forged new partnerships to host groups that otherwise would not be able to experience Southwest Louisiana. For example, Mardi Gras king cake demonstrations were moved to the Imperial Calcasieu Museum, and shorter routes were developed for the Creole Nature Trail. Visit Lake Charles achieved the goal of finding alternatives for keeping booked business.