This post assesses if the perfect storm in 2009 could hit Orlando’s massive UK tourism market. We will also detail why metro Orlando is dependent on this market segment for a healthy and vibrant tourist economy.

In 2007, approximately 990,000 British tourists visited the Orlando and Kissimmee area populating Orlando vacation homes and hotels alike. The British spent approx $1,000,000,000 dollars in the metro Orlando area in 2007.

For 2009, the UK market could be negatively hit in a significant manner for the following reasons:

1. The “wheels” have come off the UK economy. With the economy forecasted to slow as much as 2.3% by some to an incredible 5-10% by others
2. The British pound has depreciated in value about 30% in the last three months against the dollar. America as a destination is now 30% more expensive for a British visitor.
3. The British typically book their big summer vacation in January, so Orlando has not yet been booked in many cases for the summer of 2009. This January window could slip by due to the dire condition of the British economy and Orlando could lose the chance of capturing this business.
4. Air fares have not dropped significantly, despite the drop in oil prices making Orlando very expensive when compared to destinations closer to Britain.
5. The British are some of the worlds heaviest credit card users and these lines of credit are becoming restricted.

So a significant drop in UK tourists for 2009 would be significant to the local Orlando economy and could be a real probability. If you reside in metro Orlando, this would most likely affect you.

In conclusion, Orlando relies on the British tourism market especially in September when the domestic vacation market is relatively slow. What the future holds no one knows – no one can predict the future – including us. We merely offer non-professional opinions.