ATIA Campaign Promotes Resident Travel Deals, Urges Alaskans to Support Local Tourism Businesses

The Alaska Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is asking locals to “Show Up for Alaska” by getting out and exploring with tourism businesses this summer. 

ShowUpForAlaska.com recently launched with travel advice, inspiration, and itineraries for safely exploring the state’s wide-open spaces and small towns, whether by car, train, ferry, or plane.

With sponsorship from Alaska Airlines, Alaska Railroad, GCI, Jerry Mackie & Associates, and Alaska Communications, ATIA is leading the campaign to promote resident travel specials and contests, as well as highlight local travel operators across the state. As part of the campaign, ATIA will give away five pairs of round-trip Alaska Airlines tickets to local Alaskans to encourage in-state travel.

“As Alaskans, it’s not only important for us to shop local, but also to travel local,” said ATIA President and CEO Sarah Leonard. “We can support our friends and neighbors running hospitality businesses and enjoy the beauty of our great state while still safely observing state and community health protocols.”

A recent study by the University of Alaska Center for Economic Development estimated that residents and travelers typically spend $3.2 billion each year in connection to their outdoor trips, resulting in 38,100 jobs.

“We can all play a part in preserving jobs and the many small businesses that make up one of Alaska’s biggest industries,” Leonard said.