The City of Laredo has been recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community by Travel Texas, following the completion of a multi-step certification process. This designation is intended to support the city’s efforts to promote tourism as an economic development strategy, create local jobs, and attract more visitors both nationally and internationally.
Governor Greg Abbott highlighted the importance of tourism for the state’s economy. “Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies,” said Governor Abbott. “Travelers to and within Texas generate almost $200 billion in annual economic impact and support 1.3 million jobs across the state. I congratulate the City of Laredo and the Laredo Convention & Visitors Bureau on earning this designation. All Texas communities are encouraged to apply to become a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community to further grow local tourism and jobs across our great state.”
Senator Judith Zaffirini also praised Laredo for its achievement: “Congratulations to the City of Laredo for earning this well-deserved recognition and for personifying the motto, ‘where friendliness is a custom.’ Becoming a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community is a testament to our beloved hometown’s vibrant culture, rich history, and welcoming spirit. This designation will help showcase all our city has to offer Texans and visitors from across the globe.”
Representative Don McLaughlin commented on Laredo’s role in international trade: “This designation is a win for Laredo and for our region. As the number one international trade port in the United States, Laredo has long been a hub of commerce and culture, and being recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community highlights the city’s dedication to sharing that unique story with the world. I applaud the City of Laredo and the Convention & Visitors Bureau for their leadership. I look forward to the positive impact this recognition will bring as more visitors experience everything that makes Laredo the gateway to Texas and the Americas.”
Aileen Ramos, Director of the City of Laredo Convention & Visitors Bureau, emphasized community involvement: “Being recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community is an incredible honor for Laredo,” said Ramos. “This certification reaffirms our commitment to elevating tourism as a key driver of economic growth and community pride. It reflects the strong partnerships between our local leaders, businesses, and residents who work together to showcase Laredo’s unique culture, history, and hospitality. With this designation from Travel Texas, we are proud to stand among Texas’ leading destinations and invite travelers to ‘Find Your Sense of Adventure’ right here in Laredo.”
The program is available for local governments or non-profit organizations responsible for promoting tourism in their communities. Benefits include building relationships vital for tourism development, educating leaders about tourism’s significance at both local and state levels, identifying strategies tailored locally, as well as learning about opportunities offered by Travel Texas programs supporting travel industry growth statewide.
More information about becoming certified can be found at gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas.
Travel Texas operates within the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Office, focusing on marketing Texas outside its borders in order to boost non-Texan travel into state communities while generating revenue streams that benefit both municipalities like Laredo—and broader regions throughout Texas.
