According to industry research released in June by Skift – the global leader in studying and reporting travel news and trends – for the first time since January, “travel health” registered a decline. While a small decline, “this is significant in what it implies. Economic worries, mass cancellations at airports, and price hikes seem to be catching up with the industry,” reported Skift.
The canceled flights, major staff shortages, and lost baggage that has plagued airlines and airports for much of the summer, coupled with rising fares, are increasingly dissuading people from flying.
For travelers wanting to enjoy vacations this summer and fall but don’t want to fly, Branson is ideally located for drive visitors. One-third of the U.S. population is within an 8-hour drive, while 50 percent are within a 12-hour drive.
“The numbers don’t lie, and this is why Branson is increasingly appealing to so many people who aren’t flying currently but don’t want to sacrifice their summer vacations and golf getaways,” said Lynn Berry, Explore Branson Director of Communications.
Approximately 10,000,000 visitors came into the region in 2021, a significant increase over COVID-19 impacted 2020 and more than 10% over 2019, the last non-COVID-19 affected year.
While the destination’s overall numbers were up, the positive trends held for many of its niches, including golf. Branson’s 10 courses, live entertainment theatres, exceptional lakes, and family-friendly activities are renowned for their variety and quality.
All 10 Branson Golf courses are open to the public and range from luxury resorts to daily fee options. Located close to one another, the courses are situated near many lodging options, restaurants, theme parks, museums, and countless other attractions without losing their idyllic settings amid the Ozarks’ natural bounty.
Five of Missouri’s Top 10-rated courses are in the Branson Golf destination, including the top four. Leading magazines rank some of those among the country’s top 100 public courses.
Course designs by Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Bob Cupp, and Tom Fazio combine first-class playing conditions, welcoming hospitality, and five courses certified by Audubon International for their environmental and conservation best practices.
Branson has been voted a TripAdvisor community top U.S. destination annually, ranking No. 3 in 2021.
For more about Branson Golf, visit:
- ExploreBranson.com/golf
- Instagram.com/explorebransongolf or
- Facebook.com/bransongolf