NH holiday forecast, expectations are bright

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) -- New Hampshire travel officials are expecting heavy doses of great weather, out-of-state visitors and tourism money pouring in this holiday weekend.

The New Hampshire Division of Travel and Tourism anticipates that more than half a million visitors from other states will flock to the state -- an increase of two percent over last year. They anticipate those tourists will spend $86 million -- an increase of five percent.

Industry experts and resort owners credit the great weather forecast, stable gas prices and a pent-up desire to get out and have some fun and family time for the increase in reservations and heightened expectations for a booming holiday weekend.

Last Memorial Day weekend was rainy, making for dreary revenues for those whose fortunes are tied to the tourism industry.