The recent Tourism Advisory Board (TAB) meeting in Sedona highlighted a notable increase in tourism activity, particularly in April, attributed to families visiting for Easter. The occupancy rates in town saw a positive shift, with higher average daily rates (ADRs) and a significant revenue boost of 43%. This surge was partly driven by an increase in vacation rental listings on platforms like VRBO.

The meeting also provided a comparative analysis of the tourism markets in Sedona and the Village of Oak Creek. While both areas exhibit distinct characteristics, it was encouraging to note that the Village of Oak Creek has shown improvement, moving from a previously struggling position to a more favorable financial standing.

However, concerns were raised regarding future booking trends. The board noted a decrease in booking windows, indicating potential uncertainty among travelers. While some data suggested a decline in future bookings, other research indicated a smaller drop, highlighting a discrepancy that could affect planning and expectations for the upcoming months.

Overall, the discussions underscored the importance of monitoring tourism trends closely, as fluctuations in occupancy and booking behaviors directly impact local businesses and the community's economy. The TAB aims to address these challenges while fostering a thriving tourism environment in Sedona and its neighboring areas.