State Tourism Budget Growth Slows and 5 Other Tourism Trends This Week

>>The future of tourism marketing in the United States will be on the ballot in more than three dozen states in one way or another this November. While most voters probably won’t realize that, tourism is one of the most important economic drivers they’ll be voting for: State Tourism Budget Growth Slows Ahead of Governors’ Races in Midterms

>>It’s summer. Slow down. Take a breath. And catch up with some of Skift’s best deep dives and enterprise stories so far in 2018: 5 Great Summer Reads From Skift

>>The tiny republic of Palau is striving to become a global leader in ecotourism. In recent years, the government has made moves to ensure the country becomes a pristine paradise for luxury travelers: Palau Tests the Waters of Luxury Tourism

>>A variety of self-defeating trade wars and increased travel pricing will likely prevent global business travel from surging in growth like it has over the last few years: Increased Costs Will Put Pressure on Business Travel Growth

>>Six Flags is going beyond the typical theme and water park offerings with kid-focused and adventure options in China, and it makes sense to bring those concepts to other markets. But it’s also wise to make sure the parks are delivering what customers want before investing in building them elsewhere: Six Flags Wants to Expand Its Kid-Sized and Adventure Park Concepts Beyond China

>>Theme park watchers have long been waiting for Universal to announce plans for another Orlando park. While Thursday’s comments don’t amount to an official announcement, executives sure sound positive about the prospect: Universal Confirms It Is ‘Looking At’ Adding Another Orlando Theme Park