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Philadelphia Boasts Record-Breaking Tourism Numbers In 2018

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Last year was a record-breaking year for tourism in Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau released its annual report Tuesday.

Eighteen citywide conventions, the most in a decade, and an increase in overseas visitation combined to bring 1.3 million overnight visitors to Philadelphia. The economic impact from overseas visitation reached $1.1 billion, and Center City hotel occupancy climbed to an all-time high of 79.6%.

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"When our hotels are full, that means our residents have more opportunities to work," Mayor Jim Kenney said. "Housekeepers, front desk staff, restaurant servers can all put food on their tables and contribute to our economy."

The Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau spotlighted the banner year at Tuesday's annual meeting at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown.

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