Michelin Travel Guide gives extremely high praise to Utah

SALT LAKE CITY – We may see a big boost in the number of tourists coming to the state after very high praise come from a revered tourism guidebook.

When it comes to international tourism, there are few names more trusted than the Michelin Travel Guide.  So, when Michelin gave Utah a three-star designation, tourism officials said it was an extremely big deal.

“People use it like a bible because they are so thorough and trusted with their three-star ratings,” according to Utah Office of Tourism Director Vicky Varela.

Utah is the first state in the country to receive this designation, based on access to things like national parks, and hospitality.

Varela says, “They are recognizing our destinations and our people are among the very best in the world.”

Now, Varela says they’re going to do their best to spread the word about this unique designation.  They’ll do special promotions and social media campaigns.  However, getting the word out won’t be that hard.

“These travel guides do most of the work for us because their motive is to sell their travel guides and inspire people around great destinations,” Varela says.

Varela believes this could bring in a lot of international visitors, especially from France.  The tourism industry already brings in $8.4 billion in spending every year to Utah, which translates to 41.2 billion in state tax revenue.

“What it means for you and me is $12 hundred of tax relief per household,” according to Varela.