Tourism Industry & Vacation Destinations 
Tourists travel outside of their usual environment, stay at hotels, and engage in activities for leisure or professional reasons.
U.S. Travel Association researches travel trends in the United States. They reported that $716.7 billion dollars were spent on leisure travel in 2017. The figure is a combination of domestic and international guests.
The travel industry as a whole boasted $1,036 billion in traveler spending, $2.4 trillion in economic output, and supported 15.6 million jobs. The vast amount of available money in the tourism industry allows it to accommodate almost every travel taste and demand. Some popular vacation destinations include:
- Casino resorts
- Beachfront resorts
- Ski resorts
- Hotels on island resorts (Grand Hotel Mackinac Island, Lake Huron)
- Islands for tourist (Bass and Kelley's Island, Lake Erie)
The U.S. has a wide variety of small resorts that are activity-specific. Resorts featuring hot springs and hunting lodges are some examples of activity-specific resorts. The smaller resorts may not include amenities such as fine dining and shopping. Often, they offer a pleasant look into the past with stunning views. The size of the industry allows vacationers to select their activity in one of the many available locations. Often full-service resorts are located in the same geographic region of the smaller resorts/hotels. The number of amenities, activities offered, and specific setting aid in planning the perfect vacation.
North American Island Resorts
Tropical islands located on the world's oceans and seas come to mind when one hears the phrase "Island Resort". Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario are the great lakes. There about 35,000 islands distributed throughout the great lakes. Approximately 60 of these islands are considered notable. Some of the islands are inhabited and use tourism as a means of support. Full-service resorts or specific island accommodations are two styles of resorts.
Full-Service Resort
The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is an example of a full-service resort. It was constructed in 1886 and placed on the National Register of Historic places in 1972. Guests are transported to the island by a catamaran ferry service. The amenities include:
- Golf course
- Shopping
- Horse carriage rides and biking
- Tennis courts and pool
- Fine dining
The resort provides all of the traditional accommodations associated with a 5-star establishment. An underwater cable buried in the lake bed provides power to the island.
Island Specific Resort
Kelley's Island is located off the coast of Sandusky, OH. A cable buried in Lake Erie supplies power to the island. It is considered an outdoor activity resort. Homes/cottages, hotels, condominiums, and camping round out the lodging options. Fishing charter, scuba diving, kayaking, and the glacial grooves are some of the sites and activities offered on the island. While many services associated with a full-service resort are available, they are offered through individually owned businesses.
Beachfront Hotels and Resorts
Resorts and hotels located on our nation's beaches offer water activities and allow participation in area-specific fun. Beachfront hotels supply many amenities including a beach area dedicated to guests. Resorts generally provide more on-site services, amenities, and activities.
Daytona Beach is a prime example of area localized specific activities. The Daytona 500 takes place at Daytona International Speedway. Richard Petty Driving Experience is available at the track as well. The Boardwalk & Pier feature Joyland Amusement Center, Mardi Gras Fun Center and many more dot the beachline.
Common water activities include paddleboards, surfing and surf lessons, chartered deep fishing excursions, and the beach. There is no right or wrong answer whether to choose a hotel or resort. Review of amenities of each and determine the best fit for the vacation adventure.
When Power Fails
The geographical location of resorts or hotels directly affects what weather or events that can interrupt power. When the power fails it can cost resorts in the tourist trade. In addition, customer safety regulations must be followed. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) publishes the
Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems Handbook. This publication outlines the backup and emergency requirements for hotels and buildings within a resort. However, satisfying these requirements does not mean the building will have total power during a utility outage. The requirements only cover life safety systems, such as elevators, fire/security and emergency lighting. The purpose of the building dictates the electrical systems that must be energized during a power outage.
Resorts and hotels without adequate emergency and backup power systems are effectively shut down during power outages. Hotels must relocate clients and the activities are slowed or completely stopped. Often the property sizes the emergency generator(s) to provide backup power for enough systems to allow operation. This task can be accomplished with installed generators, outside generators in sound attenuated enclosures, or portable generator sets. Each style of generators is available in various size and voltage capability. The portable generator offers easy transportation to the building and quick setup for localized power losses.
We have over 35 years of experience in the generator industry. Pre-owned generators provide power at a reduced initial cost. Our pre-owned generators must pass a 31-point inspection prior to placement on the ready yard. We also have a stock of new generators. Often, we can help arrange generator shipment within 24-hours of purchase completion. Go to
Inventory to view in-stock generators. Skilled technical staff can modify generator sets to perform in extreme conditions.
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