The State of Florida is a major market leader in domestic and international tourism. Florida boasts an abundance of natural and manmade attractions that have made the State very popular among leisure visitors from international, national, and statewide destinations. Tourism in Florida provides a major economic impact and is the number one industry in the State with a record number of visitors (84.5 million). The industry directly employs approximately one million people and contributes about US$ 65 billion in tourism/recreation taxable sales. The importance of tourism to the State is significant as the industry encompasses multiple interrelated businesses such as, lodging, attractions, restaurants, cruise lines, car rentals, travel agents, and tour operators. The Eric Friedheim Tourism Institute is committed to facilitate and foster the growth of tourism to support the economy. In addition, to prudently plan, develop and manage tourism to alleviate potential environmental and social impacts in local communities and destinations.