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Updated: 6:52 PM Jun 1, 2011
Memorial Day Brings Business to Gulf Coast
Gulf Coast Anticipates Busy Memorial Day Weekend Despite Economic Downturn From Last Year.
Posted: 6:52 PM Jun 1, 2011Reporter: Bethany Gillis Email Address: Bethany@wtvy.com |
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(Dothan, AL)
It’s been just over a year since the BP oil spill and this business is busier than ever. All along the gulf coast businesses are starting to see an increase in tourism.
"I think this year will be one of the busiest years. I think people know the oil's not here and they're coming.” Christian Whitehouse schooner manager said.
According to Florida tourism officials, the number of tourists coming to the beach is expected to rise throughout the rest of this year.
"We didn't do horribly bad last year with the oil spill but this years' been definitely, definitely better." Whitehouse said.
Many people thought the beach would be a dead zone, but as you can see, there's barely any space to park a car.
"I feel like I’m making a come back as this point financially and just you know, the mental aspect of it all." schooner bartender Keith Keller said,
There haven’t been any sightings of oil along Panama City beach since last year. For most visitors, out of sight and out of mind, is good enough.
"we were certainly concerned over it as everyone else was. At it would have on the beach, and the ecosystem, and the surrounding area, but it didn't stop us from coming down here." Florida Vacationer Tom Parker said.
Florida tourism has already shown a 2-percent increase this year after dropping 15-percent last year.
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