Santa Barbara launches new tourism and marketing plan

A short, simple phrase will be the centerpiece of the new marketing campaign for Santa Barbara.

“Visit Santa Barbara, The American Riviera,” is the slogan you will see on ads, the internet and in commercials.

The focus will be on travelers, meeting planners, and those shooting films and commercials.

The promotions will include many areas around Santa Barbara, including Carpinteria, Montecito, Summerland, Goleta and the Santa Ynez Valley.

The new video piece associated with the campaign features a family enjoying the view of Santa Barbara from TV hill, a dog frolicking in the waves at the beach, families walking along the waterfront and a mountain biker on a local trail.

The message will be sent out worldwide. These days there are ad campaigns for the single day visitor, and also those that will help travelers who plan to spend several days in the area.

In the last year, visits by tourists have gone up according to city officials. They guage that through the transient occupancy and sale taxes.