Georgia tourism industry e-newsletter, Dec. 2016

Peach Byte - Georgia Tourism Industry E-newsletter

December 2016



It's hard to believe that we are bearing down on the end of another year. While this one has seen its share of challenges, including most recently the storms on the coast and the fires in the mountains, we've also seen some amazing accomplishments - being the only state named to National Geographic Traveler's Best of the World list, launching and wrapping our ExploreGeorgia.org Songwriter Series and opening a new visitor center at the world's most-traveled airport, among many others. Thank you for the parts you all have played in helping to bring about these successes - they've all been team efforts. Please also keep in mind those still struggling because of our natural disasters, and lend a helping hand where you can. Warm wishes for a wonderful holiday season to you and yours.
Top News Items from Georgia Tourism
1. Georgia named one of National Geographic Traveler's Best of the World Destinations for 2017 Georgia has been selected as one of National Geographic Traveler magazine's 21 "Best of the World" destinations for 2017! The highly coveted annual list is featured in the December 2016/January 2017 issue of the magazine, available on newsstands nationwide and online. One of three U.S. locations and the only state featured in the list, Georgia is highlighted for its rich music scene. Read more about the accolade on MarketGeorgia.org.
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Peach Byte - Georgia Tourism Industry E-newsletter
2. Now open: RVIC Conference Registration The Regional Visitor Information Center (RVIC) Conference will be held in Woodstock April 26-28, 2017. Register by Dec. 30, 2016, to take advantage of the early bird price ($100) and save money! Visit www.georgiarvic.com to register and for the latest information on the conference. Scholarships are available, but hurry! The deadline to apply for scholarships is Dec. 16, 2016. Download the scholarship application.
3. Cartersville-Bartow County to host 2017 Travel Media Marketplace In April 2017, select travel writers from the United States and Canada will explore CartersvilleBartow County's Smithsonian Affiliate museums, world-class sporting developments and resorts, plus one-of-a-kind attractions as part of Georgia's Travel Media Marketplace. Participating travel writers will meet with tourism industry representatives from around the state during the marketplace to learn about the state's tourism destinations, attractions and events. More specific information about the Marketplace will be available in early 2017. Learn more about plans for the event on MarketGeorgia.org.
4. Visitor Information Centers to host Georgia On My Mind Days in 2017 VIC Georgia On My Mind Days are your opportunity to get in front of the traveling public and network with partners at the VICs. We encourage destinations, attractions and hotels to showcase your tourism products on these special days. Each VIC has a different date, so you can participate in whichever centers you like. Check the calendar on MarketGeorgia.org for the schedule, and contact the centers for more information on this FREE opportunity!
5. Don't delay! Capture holiday business by promoting your destination on ExploreGeorgia.org Travelers are making their bucket list plans for 2017. Don't delay! Make sure everyone can find your events and deals by posting them on ExploreGeorgia.org. Find helpful resources, including the Explore Georgia FY17 Content Calendar on MarketGeorgia.org.
6. Georgia Tourism staff spotlight: Emily Murray Emily Murray is the Senior Communications Specialist for Georgia Tourism, Film and Arts. Her work day is never typical, and that's one of her favorite things. The best moments in her job are when media discover something they didn't know about Georgia and are blown away by what they find. Plus, it's always nice to land a great story. When Emily is not pitching, writing or planning an itinerary for a travel writer, she enjoys exploring the state, traveling, eating pad Thai and keeping her nose stuck in a book. She lives in Marietta with her husband Brandon and two fur babies Melody and Coda. If you have a story idea that you think needs to be shared, email her at emurray@georgia.org!
Mark your calendar for these upcoming tourism events
1. Jan. 23-24: Tourism Hospitality and Arts Day at the Capitol, Atlanta 2. Feb. 15-17: GACVB Winter Meeting, Carrollton 3. Feb. 27-28: Georgia Agritourism Conference, Tifton 4. March 5-6: Winter Chautauqua, Dalton 5. April 20-23: Travel Media Marketplace, Cartersville 6. April 26-28: RVIC Conference, Woodstock
Let's get social! Have a question about Georgia? Need travel advice? Or just feel like getting inspired to plan your vacation? Check us out on the following sites:
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Peach Byte - Georgia Tourism Industry E-newsletter





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