Travel South USA: Drive market & air access growing quickly

Travel South USA recently hosted a 2-day event (Aug. 16 and 17) with Canada’s top media, product buyers, and travel agents at Toronto’s Malaparte in the TIFF Bell Lightbox.

Guests had the opportunity to meet with 24 representatives from 21 convention and visitor bureaus from across the south to learn about iconic southern experiences, culinary traditions, and four-season outdoor adventures.

The event is part of Travel South USA’s commitment to Canada and efforts to increase tourism in 2022-2023.

“We are so excited to be here in Canada and to welcome y’all to the South,” said Liz Bittner, president & CEO of Travel South USA. “We understand how important the Canadian market is, and we are investing resources to share our story and educate the market on all the authentic experiences the South has to offer.”

Kicking off the week, Travel South USA offered partners an exclusive Canadian industry panel to provide relevant post-pandemic market insights from speakers including Wing Sze Tang of The Toronto Star, Will Tang of Going Awesome Places, and Maclin Williams of Porter Airlines.

Attendees celebrated southern hospitality with food stations of fan favourites like fried chicken & waffles, brisket, and peach cobbler. Guests were also invited to Bourbon Tastings with a Kentucky Jim Beam expert throughout the night.

Day two of Travel South USA’s event included 1-on-1 meetings for partners with Canadian product buyers from Ontario and Quebec.

Drive market & air access growing quickly

“We know the drive market is expected to do extremely well in the next year and air access into the region is growing quickly," shares Bittner.

Bittner adds: 

“When it comes to live music, incredible food, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, nowhere else compares to the South. We look forward to welcoming Canadians this fall and winter!”

Travel South holiday experiences

Approximately the size of Continental Europe, Travel South USA says the Southern United States offers virtually any kind of holiday experience desired – from beaches to mountains; active to leisure; big cities to small towns – in any season.

There are national and state parks to hike and camp, wild and scenic rivers to fish or raft on; scenic byways for leisurely drives, and state highways for those who want to get off the beaten path.

In addition, visitors can experience world-famous theme parks, water parks, historic sites and battlefields, glorious gardens, internationally acclaimed museums, and shopping malls (from designer to discount).

Restaurants of every kind – fast food to five-star – provide the gastronomic experience of choice.

Popular American music was born in the south: the blues, rock 'n roll, country, Cajun, and bluegrass. Nightclubs and entertainment centres sound out all types of music.

Travel South USA says this region is famous for its festivals and special events are scheduled throughout the year to celebrate the seasons, local customs, foods, and culture.

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