People Put Hospitality In Idaho

Idaho’s rugged mountain ranges, numerous lakes, rivers and streams, verdant forests, scenic deserts and abundant wildlife rival the beauty of any state, but for Karen Ballard, the Gem State’s exceptional citizens are what give its quality of life an edge over virtually anywhere else in the nation. Ballard, administrator of the Idaho Department of Commerce’s tourism division, says the hospitality and warmth of Idahoans are as much key factors in the success of attracting visitors to the state as are diverse, stunning geography and numerous recreational opportunities within its 82,413 square miles. Idaho’s $3.5 billion annual tourism industry has been and continues to be a crucial segment of the state’s economy. As of 2008, 26,000 Idaho jobs were in the tourism sector, representing nearly 4 percent of the state’s non-farm job employment/ Mark Mendiola , Ridenbaugh Press. More here. (2009 SR file photo: Sailors enjoy a beautiful late September day at Lake Pend Oreille while racing in the Buttonhook Regatta on Idlewild Bay)

Question: If you had to live somewhere else in Idaho, where would it be? Why?