Kokomo and the Howard County area are capitalizing on existing facilities and filling a market niche by attracting small-scale meetings, conventions and sporting events. Grant County has declared itself James Dean Country. Tourism marketing is a community effort, and having friendly, personable, knowledgeable people is very important. For example, a gas station attendant on the interstate who is trained and part of the system may recommend a restaurant or a local attraction to travelers. This can make all the difference.
People pass through on their way to other places.
Regional branding can develop a distinctive image for Indiana, which builds upon the state's agricultural traditions. Regional tourism planning should also select target markets, according to Cai. What attracts families may be very different from what attracts newlyweds, which, in turn, may be different from what retirees are looking for. Then, there is globalization to consider. Many times, repeat visitors to the United States, having seen New York, Chicago and San Francisco, want to see the 'real' America.