Earlier today I did a post on Japans decision to make the lovable "Hello Kitty" it's official ambassador of tourism.  The decision was made in no short part due to the overwhelming love of the Japanese fuzzy doll.  Known all over the world, Hello Kitty has even made her mark in China where she is loved be millions of children.  This makes Japans Hello Kitty vote of confidence make sense, even when it doesn't seem sensible.

Well this of course made me think.  Popular loved country icons welcoming and encouraging tourism, good idea.  It's no secret that America has been given a mortal blow around the world, unless the French and Brits are coming to shop with their strong euro in New York, tourism and the tourist industry aren't seeing the crowds of eager awestruck travelers we once enjoyed.  So maybe it's time to get a new Tourism Ambassador like Japan did.  But who?  

Who or what is that one American icon that says come spend your money in America in the same warm, cute and fuzzy way as Hello Kitty.  That one incredibly popular item that has burst through American shores to be embraced by billions around the globe?

I've come up with 5, and I would like to know which one you think best represents and is up to the task of inticing travelers to spend money in one of Americas cities.

My Nominees:

1. Elmo

2. Michael Jackson (even with the possible fear of babynapping)

3. Angelina Jolie (again, could be a fear of babynapping)

4. John Wayne (think about it, cowboy diplomacy) 

5. SpongeBob Square Pants

Vote in the Poll section located in the side bar!

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