Travel South USA has announced that registration for its sixth Annual Travel South USA International Showcase in Charleston, South Carolina is open. Early registration will offer discounted rates, which is open until September 1, 2017, at which time full registration rates will resume. Travel South USA International Showcase brings together international tour operators, US receptive tour operators, and Southern tourism entities for three days of appointments and networking. In 2015, 6.7 million international visitors travelled to 12 southern states, including 3.2 million overseas visitors compared to 2.6 million in 2007, representing 24 per cent growth over this seven-year period.
“Our goal is to generate more international visitors to the South Carolina and our 12 regions, and so we handpick over 100 international tour operators to vet and credential as international buyers for international showcase. We have tour operators coming from 20 countries including Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Benelux region, and the United Kingdom and Ireland. During their visit, they have business meetings with hundreds of suppliers from destination marketing organisations, hotels, restaurants, attractions to local set on guide services,” said Duane Parrish, director, South Carolina Parks, Recreation, and Tourism.
“While in Charleston, all delegates will have the opportunity to experience one of the local city tours, highlighting carriage rides, guided walking tours or a visit to one of the historic plantations. Each tour is designed to highlight the attractions and experiences an international guest may enjoy during a visit to Charleston. We are happy to announce this year city tours will be open to both tour operators and suppliers. Suppliers will be able to register for a city tour starting September 2,” added Parrish.
Helen Hill, executive director, Charleston Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, stated, “We are delighted to have the opportunity to share the Charleston area’s rich history, delicious cuisine and sun-kissed beaches with the esteemed international audience at Travel South International 2017. South Carolina is well known for its authentic southern hospitality, and we want every attendee to experience this to the fullest while visiting Charleston.”
