Congratulations to Travis Napper for achieving his one-year anniversary as Director of Arkansas Tourism!
As we all know, 2020 was a strange and difficult year. For Travis Napper that included moving from Louisiana and starting a new job during a pandemic. He credits his easy-going personality and the love of a beautiful family for keeping him humble and focused on the potential of a great future in Arkansas.
After the recent Arkansas Governors Conference on Tourism, Director Napper was gracious enough to answer a few of my questions.
Can you describe your job in one sentence?
As the Director of Arkansas Tourism, I try to get people to visit the state of Arkansas!
What are the biggest rewards from your job?
Knowing the impacts that we have in so many communities across the state, from tiny towns to the largest cities. Each destination has something unique to share that travelers will be interested in, and we get to help tell their stories to a larger audience and amplify their message.
What else do you enjoy about the position?
The places I get to see and promote are incredible and so is learning about the people and stories behind each location.
Should others respect what you do?
Yes, because we are promoting the act of making lifetime memories and connecting people. Also, if a location is a good place to visit, then it is a good place to live. Tourism is about so much more than traveling – it is also about quality of life.
What place (besides Arkansas) tops your bucket list right now?
I would love to see Montana.
What place would you like to revisit?
I would enjoy another visit to Montreal, especially during the summer.
What are some of the best things about Arkansas?
Arkansas is known as “The Natural State”, so obviously our natural beauty is what stands out. But the joy of promoting an entire state is the diversity of experiences that you get to share. Arkansas has such a great mix, from the capital city of Little Rock in the central part of the state, to the corridor of Fayetteville/Rogers/Bentonville in the northwestern part of the state. We have urban and rural, we have food, fun, art, music…Arkansas really does have all you need.
Finally, what are some of your personal passions?
That would have to include food, art, and great conversations. In my alone time I enjoy reading. Of course, I enjoy spending quality time with my family. I love to throw the ball with my son.
About Arkansas Tourism
Arkansas Tourism, a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, strives to expand the economic impact of travel and tourism in the state and enhance the quality of life for all Arkansans. The division manages 14 Arkansas Welcome Centers and employs more than 60 staff members across The Natural State. For more information, visit www.arkansas.com .
Many thanks to both Director of Tourism Travis Napper and Communications Manager Leah DiPietro for all your great information!
