15 years
Related: Will Obama image translate into tourism?
Despite the inauguration of a president who could generate warmer feelings — and more tourists — for the USA, the U.S. tourism industry is bracing for a decline in higher-spending international visitors.
This year, the number of foreign visitors is expected to dip for the first time since 2003 as the economic crisis spreads and consumers worldwide curb spending. The U.S. Travel Association, the industry's main trade group, this year expects about 60 million foreigners, or 1.6% less than last year.
The article specifically mentions "higher-spending international visitors". Backpackers are "lower-spending", but at least one study in Australia has shown that backpackers spend more money overall because of their longer stay in the country. [PDF study]
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