THE holiday season is expected to bring a $107 million boost for SA's tourism providers, with local holiday hot spots in favour.
Statistics from the SA Tourism Commission show that for the eight days from Christmas to New Year's day, at least $107m will be injected into the state's economy.
Acting Premier Vickie Chapman says this is great news for local tourism operators, accommodation providers, and regional areas.
"This Christmas is like no other, but for our tourism industry at least, it's for the right reasons," she said.
"I am overjoyed to see South Australians spending time with their family and spending money in our great state."
It follows on from a bumper September tourism boom, when the state enjoyed its highest domestic visitor spend since going into lockdown in March.
SATC figures show businesses pocketed $230m in domestic overnight expenditure, with more South Australians holidaying at home, and an increasing number of interstate visitors coming to enjoy what the state has to offer as border controls eased.
SATC chief executive Rodney Harrex said regional tourism operators were reporting strong forward bookings for the summer holiday period and were looking forward to that momentum continuing well into 2021.
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"I've been out in the regions, talking with operators from the Limestone Coast to Eyre Peninsula, who are enjoying the huge number of South Australians opting for a local getaway and the uptick from interstate," he said.
"Summer is going to be key for the recovery of tourism in SA, and with proven stimulus programs like the second round of Great State vouchers about to launch, as well as events like the Santos Festival of Cycling coming up in January, there are many reasons to book up and spend up in SA this summer."
"I encourage South Australians to look at opportunities on our doorstep, and explore what's readily available to you here," Ms Chapman said.
"Stay safe, and celebrate sensibly, but do think about how you can make this festive season memorable with a trip or stay at any of our fantastic holiday locations."
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