Florida Boasts Record Tourism Boom

Gov. Rick Scott announced Friday that a whopping 22.9 million visitors came to Florida from July to September, the largest third-quarter for visitation in the state's history.

The number is 1.7 percent higher than the same period in 2012.

"Todays announcement of another record quarter for visitation clearly shows Its Working in Florida," said Scott. "Because every 85 visitors to our state support one Florida job, a growing tourism industry equates to more jobs for Florida families and a stronger economy.As we move toward our third consecutive year of record tourism growth, it is clear why the Sunshine State remains the top travel destination across the world.

Visitor spending in Florida for January to August (the last reported month) was $51.8 billion, representing a year-over-year increase of 5.8 percent from the same period in 2012.Direct travel-related employment in Florida for January to August (last reported month) rose 2.8 percent, adding 29,700 jobs since this same time one year ago.

So far this year, were up nearly 2.5 million visitors who increased their spending by almost $3 billion, led by a double-digit increase in international visitors, said Tammy Gustafson, chair of the VISIT FLORIDA board of directors. This continued momentum is a testament to the strength of VISIT FLORIDAs marketing efforts, the power of the Sunshine State brand and the dedication of the nearly 1.1 million Floridians who work in the states tourism industry.