What makes Idaho a gem to visit

It’s National Tourism Week, which means many of Idaho’s travel and tourism leaders have assembled in Moscow for the Idaho State Conference on Recreation and Tourism.

“This conference gathers a lot of parties that contribute to the success of tourism in the state of Idaho,” Coeur d’Alene Resort resident manager Doug Burnett said in a phone interview Tuesday. “We’re having some real success stories down here.”

The conference, also known as ICORT, provides opportunities for industry representatives to network, discuss best practices and share ideas with other professionals. The conference unofficially began Monday with Idaho Travel Council grant presentations. Speakers will be giving presentations on tourism and recreational topics, such as marketing strategies and trends, as the conference runs through today.

“National Tourism Week is a significant week of recognition,” Burnett said. “Tourism represents a significant basis of the economic prosperity these communities enjoy. It’s a wonderful week of celebration and a wonderful week of recognizing the role tourism plays in these communities.”

Burnett, who is a member of the Idaho Travel Council and president of the Idaho Lodging and Restaurant Association, said he couldn’t be prouder of North Idaho’s tourism and travel industry and the success forecasted for the future.

“It’s an industry that’s been around for many years and it’s going to continue to prosper,” he said.