The Copycat Dilemma in Destination Marketing Carl Ribaudo Looking back on my decades-long career in tourism consulting, one of the most ..read more

The Trump Impact on Tourism: Part 2 Looking Ahead Carl Ribaudo Overview The following article is the second of a two-part series on the ..read more

The Trump Impact on Tourism: Part 1 Looking Back One key issue for the new incoming Trump Administration is the potential impact of their ..read more

Don't miss Carl Ribaudo's new book—a collection of his best articles on strategic thinking and tourism strategy. Order your copy today ..read more

Observations: Topography’s Role in Shaping Destination Culture, Appeal, and Strategy.  A Contrast between South Lake Tahoe and Carmel, CA ..read more

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   Tourism Industry Strategist Carl Ribaudo to Deliver Keynote at Association of California Airports Annual ..read more

The Town of Vail, Colorado, Approves Tourism Organization Transition —Vail, Colorado, renowned for its world-class skiing, outdoor ..read more

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SMG Consulting in Conjunction with Nevada's Indian Territory, Develops an Innovative Tourism Strategic Plan  South Lake Tahoe, July 10, 2024- SMG Consulting, an innovative strategic management firm, is excited to announce the development of a Tourism Strategic Plan for Nevada's Indian Territory. This groundbreaking plan, centered around the concept of "Many Tribes, One Destination," aims to showcase Nevada's rich cultural heritage and diverse tribal communities. The Tourism Strategic Plan for Nevada's Indian Territory represents a significant milestone in promoting ..read more

Lake Tahoe Truckee Tourism Economy Slows in 2023   June 18, 2024, SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, CA – The Lake Tahoe Truckee Regional Lodging Trend Report for 2023 points to a slowing overnight visitor tourism economy, primarily driven by a 3.6 percent decrease in occupancy. With the average daily rate (ADR) increasing only slightly, transient occupancy tax (TOT) revenues fell by 3.6 correspondingly. Although many months were down in 2023, September was a noticeable exception and posted strong gains. In terms of the individual jurisdictions, performance varied, and not all posted losses.   The ..read more

Is Being Data-Driven alone Limiting the Effectiveness  of Your Competitive Strategy?    “Once in a while, you get shown the light. In the strangest of places if you look at it right.” Robert Hunter   For years, we’ve heard the term “data-driven.” As a seasoned market researcher with a 30-year track record and over 200 studies, I've seen the value of data. However, I've also observed that it can be a crutch for executives, leading them to dismiss other approaches and thereby limiting their thinking and possibilities.   This raises questions: why the obsession with dat ..read more