Key Speaker

The Honorable Donna Shalala

Former U.S. Representative (FL-27)

Key Topics

  • The travel industry’s economic impact in Miami and FL-27
  • Brand USA reauthorization (HR.3851/S.2203)
  • The importance of road, rail and airport infrastructure investments
  • Innovative ideas to improve and enhance public transit
  • The need to streamline the Visa Waiver Program (H.R.2187)

Discussion Summary

During a roundtable at the historic Biltmore Hotel, the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau held a roundtable discussion with former Rep. Donna Shalala, Miami International Airport, PortMiami, Carnival Cruise Line, Brightline, the Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and other local travel leaders. The group discussed the importance of travel to Miami’s economy. In 2019, Greater Miami attracted 24.2 million visitors (6.9 million international visitors and 17.3 million domestic visitors), generating $17.9 billion in travel spending and directly employing a record 147,000 in the area. Latin America, New York City, Chicago, Atlanta, and Philadelphia were the top regions Miami visitors came from, attracted to Miami’s beaches, shopping, special events, sports, business and weather. The group also advocated for several federal issues, including the Brand USA Extension Act (HR.3851/S.2203), infrastructure funding, and the JOLT Act (H.R.2187).

Attendees

  • ACT Productions, Inc.
  • The Biltmore Hotel
  • Brightline
  • Carnival Cruise Line
  • Florida International University
  • Greater Miami & The Beaches Hotel Association
  • Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
  • Miami International Airport
  • Miami to Go
  • Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce
  • PortMiami
  • Sunny Isles Beach Tourism and Marketing Council
  • U.S. Travel Association

*Photos courtesy of GMCVB.

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