Ecuador is looking for some American love - the country's tourism ministry recently shifted its marketing focus to the U.S., its second largest market after Colombia, with the goal of increasing visits and visitor spend. Ecuador is currently a popular destination with expats and retirees, attracting 250,000 visitors in 2014, but the country is now promoting diversity and accessibility to draw short-term, high spending travellers. The government is actively working to prepare its destination for visitor growth by training youth to become future workers in the industry and outlining a growth plan that protects its natural assets from losing their lust under the pressure of greater tourism. Skift recently spoke with Ecuador's Minister of Tourism about their marketing strategy and sustainability goals. Click here to read the interview.

Via Tourism Australia