How high prices and unrest could impact Maine’s summer tourist season
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Maine's summer tourist season may be impacted by high gas prices, global unrest, and federal government shutdowns. Despite these challenges, tourism experts see positive indicators, including strong advance reservations and a recent survey showing that 60% of Americans are still prioritizing travel.
Maine's tourism industry is watching closely as gas prices rise above $4 a gallon. The state welcomed over 6 million out-of-state visitors last year, with nearly 30% coming from New England. High gas prices may affect travel decisions, but some experts believe it could work in Maine's favor as people choose to drive instead of fly. Airfare is also up, with the average cost of a roundtrip plane ticket increasing to $350. Some hotels, like the Nonantum Resort, are seeing strong advance reservations and may benefit from people seeking destinations that don't require flying. Maine businesses are also targeting local travelers, with residents accounting for 1.5 million trips last year. The state tourism office is monitoring market research and traveler sentiment, but it's too early to predict the full impact of high prices on the summer tourist season.
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