Spotlight on Tourism: A Conversation with Jay Markwalter

In a special episode of the DeKalb Talks Tourism podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Jay Markwalter, the Statewide Tourism Director for the Georgia Department of Economic Development. Jay's extensive experience and deep understanding of the tourism industry made for an enlightening discussion.

Jay provided an overview of Georgia's diverse attractions, from the North Georgia mountains to Atlanta's cultural scene, emphasizing how these varied attractions make Georgia a top travel destination. He discussed the significant economic impact of tourism on Georgia, highlighting how it drives economic growth, supports local businesses, and creates jobs. Tourism is a multi-billion-dollar industry in the state, showcasing its vital role in the economy.

Jay shared insights into the marketing strategies used to promote tourism, including digital marketing, social media, and partnerships. He highlighted the success of the "Explore Georgia" campaign in attracting visitors. A fascinating part of the discussion was film tourism, with Jay explaining how Georgia's film industry drives tourism, attracting many tourists to filming locations of popular movies and TV shows.

Looking ahead, Jay shared exciting future initiatives and projects aimed at enhancing Georgia's tourism appeal, including new developments and infrastructure improvements. The conversation with Jay Markwalter was both informative and inspiring. We thank Jay for sharing his insights and dedication to advancing tourism in Georgia. For more, watch the full episode on our YouTube channel.