AVON — — International tourism is still a relatively small part of the state’s economy, but that number is poised to grow over the next few years in the Vail Valley and across Colorado.
At a Thursday panel discussion — part of the Vail Valley Partnership’s annual Vail Valley Business Forum — participants touched on the importance of international visitors, and how new flights into Denver International Airport could bring still more people to the region.
United Airlines announced in May it would begin nonstop service next year between Denver and Tokyo, a move many in Denver see as good for business. Icelandair will this year begin nonstop service between Denver and Reykjavik, Iceland, opening up service to several cities in Europe.
“I really do believe (international travel) saved our bacon last year — that’s why we like being aligned with you in Vail,” said Richard Scharf, president and CEO of Visit Denver, that city’s convention and visitor’s bureau.
Scharf said much of the group business his organization is trying to attract comes from outside the United States.
“The growth there is international, and that’s why I think you’ll see more flights,” Scharf said.
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