Visit Laredo previews training, accessibility work, podcast and a pilot to convert business travelers to leisure visitors

Visit Laredo staff updated the advisory committee on several ongoing programs and operational initiatives.

Staff said multiple employees have participated in Tourism College certification courses; one staff member was reported as a newly certified tourism executive. The director noted she had been invited to present Visit Laredo’s "Wheel the World" inclusiveness initiative to peers and alumni, highlighting destination accessibility work.

Content efforts include a biweekly blog and a podcast that focuses on local businesses and visitor niches. The podcast has been distributed through web platforms, Apple and Spotify; staff plans to expand into live recordings and YouTube content as equipment is procured.

Staff also previewed an initiative informally called "leisure," which aims to convert business and government travelers who are already visiting the city into leisure visitors by packaging local experiences and promotions. The bureau said the concept has been presented to city management and that more details will be returned to the advisory committee at a future meeting.

Members raised operational questions about transportation support for large tournaments (van and bus availability), and staff said they maintain contacts for bus rentals and coordinate with transit providers as needed. Staff said a meeting-planner guide listing meeting spaces and capacities is available on the Visit Laredo website for event organizers.

No formal committee action was taken on the pilot program; staff will bring detailed plans to a future meeting.