Taylor Swift has a major effect on Destin, Florida and tourism
While many are still not aware of this coastal gem, Destin is feeling the effects of being name-dropped by one of the most famous singers in the world. Moreover, the whole Sunshine State is likely to receive a tourism boost, thanks to Taylor Swift.
Destin, Florida is ‘super honored’ by Swift’s song
We’re super honored to be the only city that was mentioned in her ‘Florida’ song. I think it’s an awesome moody song and we were just very happy and excited to be a part of the T-Swizzle community.
Naturally, we’re trying to reach out to her.
Meanwhile, Jennifer Adams, Tourism Director for Destin-Fort Walton Beach told the outlet how ecstatic her office was of the lyrical mention on the singer’s latest hit album. In fact, the effects are already being felt in Destin. Adams added:
We’ve not only seen more searches on Google, but we’ve had a lot of inquiries into the welcome center. And, lots of locals. Everybody really, really seems very pleased. We’re thrilled.
Overtourism in the making in Destin, Florida?
“Granted, we could never accommodate the amount of people for a tour.” Mayor Wagner said. “I mean, you’d really see a failure of gridlock traffic if we were to try to host a Taylor Swift concert in Destin.”
However, the small beach town is already used to handling a steady influx of tourists. Moreover, Wagner said that 60 percent of the town’s economy is driven by tourism.
Taylor Swift song sells timeshares
As Swift specifically mentions timeshares down in Destin in her lyrics, local timeshare real estate companies are already capitalizing on the effects of the song. Erin Maloney, General Manager, Club Wyndham Beach Street Cottages, told Thrillist:
Destin is one the country’s great beach destinations and is often overlooked. We’re excited that people will be exploring our community.
However, as with all tourist towns, locals are reacting to the effect of Taylor Swift and her song on Destin. It’s a case of mixed emotions, with some excited at the feedback. However, others are wary of the potential effects of the song and its popularity. More visitors could mean more traffic and potential disruptions for the locals, as well as a strain on the local infrastructure.
Mayor Wagner said that while tourism does tend to create traffic, it is also part of the town’s “lifeline,” adding:
It’s part of the economy and having people come to Destin and visit for whatever they want is where we all make our living. So, it’s a balance and I think the Taylor Swift Army would be great tourists to come check us out.
Moreover, Adams noted that not everyone would need to travel to Destin in the busy summer season. She said travelers might enjoy the beach town better at another time of year. She added that many people travel there in the summer months, but she recommends visiting Destin in the fall or the spring, as the beach is open all year round.
Readers can listen to Taylor Swift’s song, Florida!!! in the video included below.
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