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Collier County tourism research saw big increases in tourism visitation and spending during 2019. These numbers continued the trend of strong growth in visitation, visitor spending in Collier County and hospitality and tourism-related employment. Collier County tourism research shows 1.9 million visitors stayed at least one night in paid lodging in 2019, an increase of 5.8 percent over 2018. Those visitors also spent over $2.3 billion an 8.1 percent increase for the economic impact to the county. Visitation, spending and other key tourism indicators were reported at the monthly Collier County Tourist Development Council meeting, based on this month’s report from Tampa-based Research Data Services, Inc. Highlights for 2019 compared to 2018 include: • Average Occupancy in paid lodging rose 2.9 percent to 76.9 percent • Average daily rate in paid lodging increased 1.4 percent to $256.60 • Revenue per available room grew 4.4 percent to $197.30 • Direct Hospitality and Tourism jobs in Collier County topped 32,400, up 1,700 over 2018 The most recent tourist tax report, reflecting taxes paid by guests at hotels, short-term rentals and campgrounds in 2019, shows collections at $32.68 Million, up $4.1 million over 2018. “Collier County is Florida’s Paradise Coast, including Naples, Marco Island and the world -famous Everglades” Wert said. “Visitors come here to explore our natural beauty, enjoy the many attractions, indulge in our exceptional food, shopping and accommodations and escape the daily grind and cold weather by choosing to spend their time and dollars in our community. The CVB encourages that demand to travel here through a strong marketing and public relations plan to attract group meeting attendees, leisure travelers and sports event participants and fans.”