10/15/2024
If you know anyone who is on the fence about visiting WNC, especially Haywood/Cherokee counties- please spread the word that we are embracing visitors. Our local economy is dependent on tourism and there have been many people who have cancelled their visits for October, November and December.
While it is true that areas like Asheville, Lake Lure and Black Mountain have had massive destruction, there are also many other small towns and communities who have either escaped major damage or rebuilt quickly and are trying to return to normalcy. This means making a living to feed their families, pay their employees and continue to support harder hit areas of NC. Part of the challenge is people are trauma binging the many social media videos documenting this horrific tragedy. Those videos reary show communities that have overcome the loss and are rebuilt or rebuilding-it’s not nearly as dramatic to see those videos.
Most of the short term rentals in the state, even those not affected by the storms, lost all bookings for October and November. This not only affects the rental owners, but their cleaners, our restaurants, our breweries, shops and other handymen, contractors and tourist related industries. Imagine going through a horrific event, trying to rebuild your life, only to lose your job. Who do you know that is able to lose all their income suddenly for 2 months and still pay their bills?
Yes there are still areas that are hit hard and do not need people gawking at the destruction, but the areas where the damage was minimal are at risk of losing everything if the economy starts to fail. If you do decide to visit, you will be welcomed with alll the hospitality and kindness that has always been such an amazing part of these wonderful mountains ❤️❤️