The City of Laredo has been recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community by Travel Texas, following the completion of a multi-step certification process. The designation is intended to highlight Laredo’s efforts to promote tourism as a strategy for economic growth, job creation, and attracting visitors from across the United States and abroad.
Governor Greg Abbott commented on the significance of tourism for the state and local economies. “Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies,” said Governor Abbott. “Travelers to and within Texas generate almost $200 billion in annual economic impact and support 1.3 million jobs across the state. I congratulate the City of Laredo and the Laredo Convention & Visitors Bureau on earning this designation. All Texas communities are encouraged to apply to become a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community to further grow local tourism and jobs across our great state.”
Senator Judith Zaffirini praised Laredo’s achievement, stating: “Congratulations to the City of Laredo for earning this well-deserved recognition and for personifying the motto, ‘where friendliness is a custom.’ Becoming a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community is a testament to our beloved hometown’s vibrant culture, rich history, and welcoming spirit. This designation will help showcase all our city has to offer Texans and visitors from across the globe.”
Representative Don McLaughlin highlighted Laredo’s role in commerce and culture: “This designation is a win for Laredo and for our region. As the number one international trade port in the United States, Laredo has long been a hub of commerce and culture, and being recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community highlights the city’s dedication to sharing that unique story with the world. I applaud the City of Laredo and the Convention & Visitors Bureau for their leadership. I look forward to the positive impact this recognition will bring as more visitors experience everything that makes Laredo the gateway to Texas and the Americas.”
Aileen Ramos, Director of the City of Laredo Convention & Visitors Bureau, said: “Being recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community is an incredible honor for Laredo. This certification reaffirms our commitment to elevating tourism as a key driver of economic growth and community pride. It reflects the strong partnerships between our local leaders, businesses, and residents who work together to showcase Laredo’s unique culture, history, and hospitality. With this designation from Travel Texas, we are proud to stand among Texas’ leading destinations and invite travelers to ‘Find Your Sense of Adventure’ right here in Laredo.”
The Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community program is available for local governments or non-profit organizations leading tourism promotion efforts. The program aims to help communities strengthen relationships important for tourism development, educate leaders about tourism’s importance in Texas, identify strategies tailored locally, and learn about opportunities offered by Travel Texas or other state programs supporting travel industry initiatives.
For additional details about this program or how communities can participate, information can be found at gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas.
Travel Texas operates within the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Office with its mission focused on marketing Texas as a travel destination outside state borders—generating out-of-state visits that create revenue streams benefiting both local communities and statewide employment.
