There is no doubt all eyes are on Ukraine this week, and we are collectively hoping and praying for a quick resolution to the crisis. It is unsettling and reminds us of the worst aspects of humanity. And also, why travel remains so important.

The invasion has reminded me of a time years ago when we hosted travel writers from around the world for a media tour. During a meal stop in Grand Rapids, I interceded between a writer from Russia and one from a former USSR block country.  The conversation became heated when the two blamed each other’s leadership for continued strife and I had to remind them that we, in the travel world, are the peacemakers, and that through encouraging travel, we could help create understanding and respect for each other’s beliefs.  The conversation eventually shifted and there was no more divisiveness. 

When asked why we do what we do, we typically talk about the economic benefits of travel. And make no mistake, those are important. Too seldom though do we reflect on the role we play to engender understanding.  This is one of the reasons I’m looking forward to getting people back in the air and back on the roads. We need to get to know each other. It’s a concept that feels very globally, which it is. But it is also a concept we can embrace right here traveling within Michigan. Our team at Travel Michigan is focused this year on getting people to new and different areas of our state, to get to know people who may seem different, but in reality are much more alike than we often realize. More to come on that!

The next virtual DestinationNEXT session will be conducted the week of March 14. The goal of this session is to share preliminary results of surveys completed by the industry and discuss strategies and regional recommendations. We invite you to register here for your regional session:  medc.cventevents.com/StrategicRecoveryPlanFollowUp

I have a bit of good news to share. The Michigan Arts and Culture Council (MACC) is accepting applications for their grant programs. There are a number of programs that help support arts and culture organizations, cities and municipalities, and other nonprofit organizations ensuring that every citizen and community in Michigan enjoys the civic, economic and educational benefits of arts and culture. We know arts and culture and travel go hand-in-hand.  Help spread the word or learn if your organization is eligible here.         

As we transition from the pandemic to endemic stages of COVID, other challenges are sure to arise. I have confidence that we are well positioned here in Michigan to deal with the issues ahead, as we work together for a better Michigan, a better world.

All Best,
David Lorenz
Vice President
Travel Michigan
(517) 243-3073       

Photo:  Empire Bluff Trail. Sleeping Bear Dunes  

To sign up for the Pure Michigan Tourism Industry Update, or to access your subscriber preferences, click here.