Decline may sting Orlando

Travelling to Orlando has become less attractive with the reduced flights, weak dollar, and slumpoing economy. Some analysts have predicted a 1.9% decline in international tourism for the first quarter of 2009 said the National Tourism Trade Group.

Some believe that the last pillar left standing may be starting to crumble. Typically overseas travelers spend more and stay longer in Orlando making the crunch so devastating. International declines represent about 3% said Washington Travel Industry Associates.

But there is some good news though, gasoline prices are heading down to $2 per gallon of unregular gasoline which is somewhat encouraging for local Floridians.

With all the reports about an ongoing recession, analysts believe that Orlando will finish the year up 9.1% over 2007. Otherwise, domestic travel is expected to finish 2008 with a 1% decline.