SECTION ONE

Understanding Tourism & Becoming a Hospitality Hero

What is a Hospitality Hero?

Being a Hospitality Hero means being the go-to source for everything Johnston County! This program gives you the tools, tips, and insider knowledge to confidently showcase our destination.
 

When visitors ask, “What’s there to do around here?”, you won’t just have an answer—you’ll inspire them, guide them, and make their experience unforgettable. You are a Hospitality Hero!

What is Tourism?

Tourism is the activity of traveling to and exploring places for leisure, culture, or business, contributing to local economies and experiences.
The Eight Segments of Tourism:
Attractions, Transportation, Outdoor, Recreation, Arts & Entertainment, Accommodations, Shopping, Meetings/Conferences, and Food Services. 

Who is considered a Visitor?

A visitor is a traveler taking a trip to a main destination outside their usual environment for less than a year for any primary purpose, such as business, leisure, or personal reasons. Visitors can be either overnight or same-day.

Impact of Travel

According to the U.S. Travel Association, travelers to the United States spent over $1.3 trillion in 2024. That massive level of spending doesn’t just support airlines, hotels, and attractions—it fuels local economies, creates millions of jobs, and helps small businesses thrive in communities across the country.