Visitors to Illinois hit an all-time high in 2017, government Bruce Rauner announced earlier. Nearly 114 million people travelled to the state last year to ‘Enjoy Illinois’ and give a $1.1 billion boost to the state’s economy. Last year’s visitor totals were 1.4 per cent higher than 2016, which also was a record year. Travellers came from all over the world for business (17 per cent) and pleasure (83 per cent). In the past ten years, travellers visiting Illinois increased by more than 22 million, and tourism has become one of the state’s most important industries. ADVERTISEMENTThe Illinois tourism industry supported 335,500 jobs in 2017, an increase of 18,600 jobs since 2015. Visitors spent a whopping $39.5 billion in Illinois in 2017, according to the US Travel Association. That’s an increase of $1.1 billion or three per cent from 2016. Visitor outlays for goods and services generated $2.95 billion in state and local tax revenue, up $75 million from 2016. Tourist spending saves the average Illinois household over $1,300 in taxes each year. “Tourism is a critical part of our economy,” Rauner said. “There is so much to see and do in our state. It is gratifying to know that so many people come here each year to experience what we have to offer. “My hat is off to DCEO and the department of tourism for getting the word out with the ‘Up for Amazing’ campaign. “It is paying off smartly for our businesses and our tax rolls.” Older Raventós appointed Costa Rica minister of tourism Newer Jet Airways to launch Manchester-Mumbai connection in November