Just three weeks after Hurricane Irma passed through the state of Florida, the Daytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) hosted the Sunshine Summit, its first ever “mega” familiarization tour.
The CVB welcomed 38 buyers and meeting planners from New York City, Atlanta, and Charlotte as they arrived for the event at Daytona Beach International Airport. The attendees represented many different markets, including tour and travel, sports corporate, incentive, faith-based, military, fraternal, specialty, state association, and third party.
The familiarization tour was held to showcase Daytona Beach as a travel destination and demonstrate that the area quickly bounced back after the damage dealt by Hurricane Irma.
“This FAM couldn’t have come at a better time,” said Linda McMahon, CVB director of group sales. “We know our drive and feeder market meeting planners are looking for excellent product and the Sunshine Summit will help get the message out that our coast is clear and the majority of the area’s hotels, restaurants and attractions are ready to welcome visitors.”
The tour included site visits to area sports facilities, Daytona International Speedway, Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, Marine Science Center, and Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory. Eco and brew tours, a fishing excursion with Critter Fleet, and visits to New Smryna Beach and DeLand were also included.
“One could not ask or receive better hospitality,” said George LaMont, commandant for the Department of Florida Marine Corps League. “We thoroughly enjoyed the trip, but more importantly it convinced me that Daytona Beach is a viable location for the Department of Florida to meet.”
For more on Daytona Beach, visit www.DaytonaBeach.com.
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