The economic impact of tourism in South Carolina grew 7.6 percent in 2010 to $15 billion, and indicators for 2011 point to even more growth. That's according to Duane Parrish, Director of the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism. 

Parrish made that announcement at the annual Governor's Conference on Tourism and Travel in Greenville.

Parrish said the turn-around in tourism business is due in large part to a private sector that offers award-winning destinations and innovative partnerships that attract travelers in increasing numbers. He specifically identified Charleston being named the #1 travel destination by readers of Conde Nast Traveler magazine and the partnership between Greenville and Charleston tourism organizations that brought Southwest Airlines to the state.

"I think the thing that has really driven our success over the past year is the hard work and dedication of all of you in the tourism industry," he told the audience. "And when you look at the recognition our state's destinations have received just in the last year, it's pretty evident that all of that hard work is paying off, and that we're not the only ones who know how great South Carolina is as a travel destination."

Information from a press release sent by SCPRT.