NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Nashville has been named a "safe travels" destination, making it one of only two destinations in the United States to achieve the designation.
This title is given to the city from the World Travel & Tourism Council. The Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp (NCVC) said the recognition will help jump-start international visits when travel recovers from the pandemic.
According to the council, this is the world’s first-ever global safety and hygiene stamp for this industry designed to specifically address COVID-19 and similar outbreaks.
The program takes into account World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines – it’s updated when more information about the virus comes out.
“From the beginning of the pandemic, Nashville has worked to be a safe city for residents and visitors alike,” Mayor John Cooper said in a release. “This designation is great news for the recovery of our valued hospitality industry and our city as a whole. The industry creates thousands of jobs and is key to Nashville’s economic recovery.”
It is notable to mention this is based on a self-assessment and isn’t a certification. The NCVC said in 2020, Nashville saw $4.5 billion less in visitor spending compared to 2019 due to the pandemic. They said this program is one of several efforts to restart the tourism industry here.
Businesses a part of the good to go program that started last may will soon also add a safe travels logo. The other U.S. city named a safe travels destination is Lake Tahoe.
What is the rebound?
As Middle Tennessee works to rebound from the impact of the Coronavirus, we want to help. Whether it's getting back to work, making ends meet during this uncertain time, or managing the pressure, we're committed to finding solution. In addition, we want to tell your stories of hope, inspiration, and creativity as Middle Tennessee starts to rebound.
Find more in the sections below
-
Safely Back to School
How schools are changing, and what you can do to help your child get the most from their education, in-person or virtual -
Making Ends Meet
Find help on topics from rent to food to new belt-tightening techniques -
Managing the Pressure
Feeling isolated or frustrated? Learn ways to connect with people virtually, get counseling or manage your stress. -
Doing What’s Right
Keep track of the way people are spending your tax dollars and treating your community. -
State of Education
Find ways to cope with the new normal around schools and celebrate students’ success in the age of Coronavirus. -
We're Open Y'all
Support local businesses doing their best to stay open and serve their customers during Covid.