Local Residents Can be a Tourist in Their Own Backyard with Destination Deals
Tourism Industry Will Offer Discounts on a Number of Area Attractions and Businesses
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (May 7, 2008) – Northeast Florida businesses are partnering with Visit Jacksonville to promote tourism to local residents from May 10-18, 2008, during National Tourism Week. Residents are encouraged to explore area attractions throughout the region using “Destination Deals†which include savings at area nightlife, museums, family attractions, spas and more. The offers are valid for a full month, ending June 10.
“The costs associated with travel continue to rise and the ’Destination Deals’ offered during National Tourism Week will give residents an opportunity to experience a travel destination in their own backyard while appreciating why millions of visitors vacation in Northeast Florida each year,†said John Reyes, president & CEO of Visit Jacksonville. “As more residents become ambassadors for Jacksonville’s tourism industry, the positive word of mouth will increase the already large economic impact on the area and improve our daily quality of life.â€
Coupons for “Destination Deals†at local businesses are available at area visitor centers* and online at www.visitjacksonville.com/destinationdeals. Families looking to spend a weekend together can take advantage of “Buy One Get One Free†admission at Shipwreck Island Water Park at Adventure Landing, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, the Museum of Science & History and World Golf Hall of Fame. Happy hour revelers will enjoy “Buy One Get One Free†drink specials and entrees at Tastings: A Wine Bar. Adults looking for an escape can also take advantage of discounts at PGA Tour Spa Laterra. Exemptions apply to all offers.
National Tourism Week is a designated time period which recognizes travel and hospitality employees and educates local residents on the value of tourism to their community, both from an economic standpoint and in their quality of life. Jacksonville and other destinations around the country will focus on this year’s theme, “Discover Great American Traditions.†The theme encourages travel to American locales and highlights the role that tourism plays in discovering the icons of a destination.
In addition to “Destination Deals,†Visit Jacksonville and The Jacksonville Landing will host a Jacksonville Destination Expo with representatives, information and giveaways from area attractions and related businesses. Residents are encouraged to stop by the food court at The Jacksonville Landing May 12-15 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. to find out more about how to be a hometown tourist.
*For a listing of Visit Jacksonville Visitor Center locations, log on to www.visitjacksonville.com.