Watch News 13’s town hall, “Your Voice, Your Future: Open for Business,” where our CEO Aubrey Anderson discusses Helene’s effect on local business owners and workers who depend on tourism.
Western North Carolina’s tourism industry, which pumps billions of dollars into the economy annually, took a major hit after Hurricane Helene. Some impacts seen so far include a 33% drop in short-term rental occupancy and a 43% decline in guest check-ins.
Aubrey Anderson, owner of Zen Tubing, the area’s largest tubing outfitter and the one responsible for many of the flotillas of meandering tubers, said they open Friday and feel optimistic about the season.
They are making a concession to Helene, she said, and just operating on the southern part of the French Broad, from about the Glenn Bridge River Park to their main location at Brevard Road.
Zen Tubing reopens Brevard Road location, showing recovery after Helene
“We embrace the river,” Anderson said. “We love the river. We want the river to be a happy place for people. We want them to enjoy the beauty of this area. We’re slowly getting back after Helene. This is just one step in the process of that.”
French Broad River was their livelihood, then the floods came. | Charlotte Observer
We are honored to be featured in Charlotte Observer’s article about how businesses along the French Broad River, including Zen Tubing, are recovering from the impacts of flooding caused by Tropical Storm Helene. It highlights the resilience, challenges, and determination it has taken to restore operations and keep Asheville’s favorite float trip alive.
Zen Tubing offers river trips with a way to appreciate natural beauty of Asheville – Asheville’s 828 News NOW
Check 828 News NOW’s fun and informative article all about Zen Tubing! It covers our mission to provide a relaxing and scenic tubing experience while ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure on the French Broad River.
How Zen Tubing is Bringing Back Asheville Float Trips
An in-depth interview with Zen Tubing owner Aubrey Anderson, featured on The Adventurist, a highly renowned travel blog. The article explores Aubrey’s journey of taking over the business, overcoming challenges, and ensuring that the beloved Asheville float trip continues for years to come.