Beaches Are A-Booming in Alabama
Despite tough economic times, visitors and locals alike are flocking to Alabama’s beaches. Lodging revenue increased 34.5 percent from July 2007, rising from $51.9 million to $69.8 million. Retail sales increased 17.9 percent from $80.4 million in July 2007 to $94.8 million in July 2011, according to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism (CVB).
“The Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan areas had a phenomenal July, and we are extremely grateful to all of the families that choose to spend their vacations along our white-sand beaches,” said Herb Malone, CEO of the CVB. “These numbers also show the tremendous growth that our area has seen in comparison to 2007, which is a testament to the united, synergistic effort among our tourism industry, government leaders and community.”
Alabama’s white-sand beaches offer a picturesque getaway close to home for the region’s inhabitants. According to CVB’s spring 2011 statistics, the majority of visitors, 41%, came from the Southeast. Alabama visitors accounted for 37.2%.
The city of Gulf Shores in the north-central region of the Gulf of Mexico boasts miles of beaches and a rich Civil War history, including Fort Morgan, site of the Mobile Bay battle. Orange Beach is located nearby.
More than 40,000 of Alabama’s Baldwin County residents are employed in travel-related jobs.
Want to go out and see what the fuss is all about with your own eyes? Check out these sites for more information.
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