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News Release

Anchorage, Alaska Ranked as Top Tourist Destination

Anchorage, Alaska – Jan. 6, 2006- This week, Carlson Wagonlit Travel Associates published its 2006 Travel Trends Survey, declaring Anchorage, Alaska as one of the top 10 travel destinations in the United States. Conducted from Nov. 28 – Dec.16, 2005, the 2006 Travel Trends Survey polled 363 Carlson Wagonlit Associate owners, managers and frontline agents throughout the United States.

This year, Anchorage’s ranking moved to sixth place, up from seventh place in 2005, and tied with Phoenix. Las Vegas ranked number one both years, and Orlando second. In addition, Alaska came in second for the Top Five Cruise Destinations of 2006, while the Western Caribbean came in first.

“It’s a testament to the fact that Anchorage is attracting more visitors each year, and that the local travel industry has continued its hard work to make Anchorage a top destination,” said Bruce Bustamante, ACVB President and CEO. “We are very optimistic about tourism for 2006 and look forward to another year of growth in visitor numbers.”

The Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau’s mission is to attract and serve visitors to the Municipality of Anchorage. ACVB’s marketing functions are funded by half of the bed tax collected by the lodging association. The other half goes to the Municipality’s general fund. ACVB receives no state or federal funds. For more information, explore www.anchorage.net.

Media Contacts:

Laura Tanis
Public Relations Manager
Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau
ltanis@anchorage.net
(907) 257-2331 direct
(907) 250-5285 cell
(907) 222-3752 fax

Nance Larsen, APR
Vice President, Communications & Marketing Programs
Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau
nlarsen@anchorage.net
(907) 276-4118 direct

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