"Come And Live and Be at Rest" is an appropriate acronym not only for Calabar, but for the entire state of Cross River, which offers visitors a safe and relaxing atmosphere away from the commotion and congestion of the Nigeria's big cities. Recognizing this, the government of Cross River State has made tourism development a priority and is working to leverage the contributions of the private sector to brand Cross River as a premier destination for Nigerians and foreigners alike. The Cross River State Tourism Bureau is a key player in this effort and has succeeded in putting Calabar on the map with their successful Christmas Festival and Carnival Calabar that spans the month of December.

Beyond the growing events calendar that Cross River offers to visitors, the state has many exciting tourism assets. For example, projects like the river-side TINAPA Resort with its nearby Water Park and Obudu Ranch Resort with its mountain cable car are unique and offer amazing facilities for both Business and leisure travel. Much of Cross River also has a tropical climate and protected jungle conservation areas that nature lovers of all ages can enjoy exploring. For visitors who want a more metropolitan experience but without the hassle. Calabar's new Marina Resort or the 18-hole municipal golf course offer many possibilities. From river cruises in the south to horseback riding in the north, Cross River State has attractions to satisfy a diverse set of tourists year round.

It is becoming ever easier to get to Cross River with daily air service to and from the major customer markets of Lagos and Abuja. Investment in the tourism sector is growing and the State has just completed an ambitious strategic planning process to guide the Tourism Bureau's future activities.

With all of these factors in place and continued commitment to tourism development, Cross River State is well positioned to become a key destination for domestic and international visitors. The World Bank has recognized this tourism potential by funding the Tourism Employment and Opportunities (TEMPO) project in Cross River. This initiative is currently working with both the public and private sectors to promote the state as an exciting destination based on three Key principles-qualities, security and value-under the new brand identity of Cross River Quality (CRQ). The partnership will promote this state as a business-friendly destination with special promotional packages offered at the beginning of 2010.

By the year 2020, Cross River State Tourism product will be a significant economic sector contributing significantly to the State's GDP through job creation and increased revenues driven by a uniquely differentiated internationally competitive product, complemented by comprehensive, fully functional physical infrastructure, modern competitive infrastructural framework and supported by the people of Cross river State, properly marketed flagship products with brand names that are universally identified.