Mumbai, September 28, 2015 – In an endeavor to promote Florida as a must-visit destination in the U.S., VISIT FLORIDA recently played host to top travel agents and tour operators at a VIP Luncheon at Olive Bar and Kitchen in New Delhi. Greeting each one with the warmth of the destination were the VISIT FLORIDA delegates and its Partners: The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, Visit Orlando, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, Universal Orlando Resort and Sawgrass Mills & The Colonnade Outlets.
Over 50 individuals from the travel trade fraternity who attended this event got a glimpse of the destination as they were greeted by flamingos, a light house with an alligator and a selfie booth, which provided the perfect backdrop for a fun afternoon. This intimate luncheon gave the guests a chance to meet and greet the delegates as well as gain an in-depth understanding of what the Sunshine State has to offer.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Shari Bailey, Director, International Sales & Market Development, Said, “We would like to thank the Indian market for its enormous support. The significance of this outbound market is growing at a steady pace for us. In 2014, 56,000 Indians visited Florida indicating a 21% increase in visitation as compared to the previous year. The Indian travellers who came into the Sunshine State spent $77.3 million; thereby becoming an attractive market for our Partners.”
She also added, “The year has already begun on a wonderful note for us as the global music superstar Pitbull is now our ambassador and will be encouraging people from across the globe to travel to Florida. On the aviation front, we are happy to welcome passengers flying Emirates & Turkish Airlines as both the carriers have introduced flights into Orlando & Miami respectively. Lufthansa is further expanding its routes within the state by adding Tampa Bay.”
A lucky draw was conducted wherein one of the agents won a trip for 2 people to the destination. The prize included a 5-night stay at the Swan and Dolphin hotel, a one day pass each to Walt Disney World resort, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, Kennedy space Center, tickets to an airboat ride and tickets to an NBA game. Two other lucky winners received exciting goodies from Partners.