North Dakota’s Tourism Division is planning to spend $2.5 million this year to promote the state.
Normally, the division budgets around $2 million.
Division director Sara Otte Coleman says the state will continue with its “Legendary” brand in all advertising, including print and television.
"Our 'Legendary' brand continues to resonate with visitors," said Otte Coleman. "It's mostly because it's an authentic representation of who we are."
Last year, there were concerns about potential shortages of hotel rooms, because of the oil boom. But this year?
"Wide open," said Otte Coleman. "We've really been getting the word out that there's availability statewide. We've got so many new properties that have opened up. So we're trying to get the word out to the traveling public -- 'There's a room for ya.'"
A Minot native who has made a name for himself in Hollywood is the new voice of the North Dakota Tourism Division’s television spots. Actor Josh Duhamel is doing the voice overs for a series of spots promoting North Dakota as a destination.
"We chose him not only because he's a celebrity," said Otte Coleman. "His fan base is tremendous. But it's also because of his genuine love for the state."
Otte Coleman says the television spots will be shown in adjacent states – such as Minnesota, Wisconsin, South Dakota and Montana – as well as in Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
