As we move ahead into 2021, one of the big questions on everyone’s mind – especially in the travel and hospitality industries – is when will it be safe to travel again? Recent data has shown that, on multiple days in the second half of December, over a million people have passed through domestic airports, marking the busiest travel days since March. These numbers show us that many people are anxious to resume travel, but until a vaccine is readily available and various restrictions are dropped, many will follow the suggestion of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and stay close to home to lessen the risk of catching and spreading the virus. However, there is an increasing level of optimism among those in the travel industry that we could be in for a banner year as quickly as 2021 when pent up demand will mean that travel will explode as soon as it is deemed safe. The Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval of several vaccines in a short period of time has shown many of us the light at the end of a very long tunnel. In fact, many say a vaccine could be available for the general population in the second quarter of the year, and many experts expect most people to be raring to go on those trips that they may have had to cancel in 2020. While travel may look different in 2021, many people are still planning to go to the same kinds of places they did before COVID-19. The expectation will be that among the most popular destinations in 2021 will be countries and destinations that have responded well to the pandemic. Studies from the World Economic Forum show that places like Japan and Australia, both of which are known for their health and hygiene as well as their tourist infrastructure, maybe well-positioned to recover quickly. Beach destinations and those where people may be able to get some much-needed personal space will also be popular. To get the lowdown on where some travel experts are looking to go for their next vacation as soon as it is deemed safe to do so, I polled a few members of the LHG staff for their insight: Rachael Moss: I have had to cancel a few trips to visit friends in New York City and would love to reschedule once COVID-19 is a thing of the past. My friends and I often fantasize about buying a new outfit (on Fifth Avenue of course!) and treating ourselves to a night out in a lively restaurant with lots of good food and wine. Kelsey Donnelly: As soon as it feels safe, my husband and I plan to travel. We were supposed to attend two weddings in 2020 and both were canceled or postponed, so a trip seems long overdue. Our favorite place to stay is The Mermaid and The Alligator bed & breakfast in Key West and I can’t wait to eat dinner again at El Meson De Pepe’s in Mallory Square. Liz Berman: In 2021 and once COVID-19 restriction subsides, I’m looking forward to going to Aspen, Colorado to see one of my closest friends and celebrate my birthday (hopefully this can happen in March!). Aspen is a picturesque vacation destination and an easy choice because of its beautiful scenery, outdoor recreation options and ski scene. I can’t wait to visit this small mountain community that exudes good vibes and fun times – something everyone needs post quarantine. Nicolette Giordano: The next trip that I’m planning is going to be for my bachelorette party in June. As of right now, we are planning on going to Virginia Beach & Norfolk so we can enjoy good food, nice weather, time on the water and hopefully some wine. We wanted to plan something that would be easy to get to and relaxing but fun. Carlyn Topkin: I’m looking forward to traveling more throughout Spain. Madrid has a special place in my heart after studying abroad there in college, but I can’t wait to continue eating (+ drinking!) my way through the rest of the country and taking in an amazing culture. via Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/12/30/where-we-will-travel-in-2021/
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“If I was down to my last dollar, I’d spend it on public relations.” – Bill Gates From web startups and new smartphone applications to Fortune 500 enterprises, public relations is an essential strategy for companies seeking to grow their audiences and bring their brands to the masses. Investing in PR may often seem like a high cost for low returns, but media coverage is vital for company growth and future development. Identify Main Goals of Investing in PRTo create an effective PR strategy, technology providers will need to identify some of their main goals in seeking media coverage. Here are some of the most common, and important, goals that tech companies should set out to accomplish in their media campaigns. Audience Growth & Brand Awareness Increased Web Traffic Media activities and strong content, such as articles, interviews, contributed articles and more contribute to generating visibility in web search engines and establish your brand as a leader voice on relevant topics. Competitive Edge News coverage in consumer and industry news outlets helps set your company’s technology apart from your competitors’. Particularly for companies deploying emerging technologies, gaining a strong foothold in the media will help to secure brand awareness and interest in your company’s news. Social Media Growth Social media is a powerful factor in nearly all modern marketing strategy, and technology is no exception. Through incorporating social media into your press campaign, your company can boost reach to a wide audience. Social media is an excellent tool for gauging customer satisfaction and even better for customer engagement. Enhancing Key Messaging Initiatives Communicating key company messaging standards reinforces brands and maintains a consistent company language. Consistency helps media personnel communicate brand principles and services effectively through clear coverage and ultimately enhances public exposure. Thought Leadership Positioning CEOs and other company leaders as thought leaders in your industry is a powerful marketing tool, especially for firms breaking into new markets and deploying emerging technologies. Identify What Sets a PR Agency Apart for Tech ClientsOnce your team has identified the main goals of your public relations campaign, finding a dedicated PR agency to partner with is an important first step to accomplishing your companies’ goals. Working with the right team can make all the difference, here are some key characteristics to look for in a public relations agency They understand your technology Make sure your PR team has a comprehensive understanding of the services your company offers and the technology it uses to provide them. Likewise, it is crucial that your team understands exactly how your products help consumers and can effectively communicate that to the media. Market Expertise Understanding your key markets is vital to increasing media exposure where you need it most. It is important that your public relations team has a clear target audience by which to direct its efforts. Media Expertise Public relations partners are charged with developing key relationships with industry and news media. Understanding how to develop, refine and deploy a strategic media campaign requires a dedicated team of communicators engaging with clients and media. In the technology world things move at a rapid pace, so using your PR firm’s media expertise to keep up to date with the latest trends and developments in tech news is a must. Additionally, competitor monitoring for news coverage and across social media channels is a helpful tool for companies running a tight race with competing providers. Understanding the competition’s media strategy puts your company that much closer to gaining a lead. At Lou Hammond Group we specialize in providing comprehensive public relations and marketing services to top technology providers in the Hospitality, Information Technology and Digital Experience sectors. Let us show you how you we can take your media relations to the next level, call us today! via Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/11/20/why-tech-companies-should-invest-in-pr/ What’s Happening – COVID-19 has changed travel but also energized vacationers to become creative. In the U.S., a “get-away” is a “right” and Americans plan to make it happen. This in turn has transformed how we approach communications. As LHG represents over 20 destinations, an immediate modification of course was crucial. Yes, Americans are discovering America but very important, they still want to dream of far away places. How does PR fit into this evolution? We learned quickly that regional press has taken on new significance due to tremendous populations shifts in this country. Of course, national media continued to be important but needed a different approach to produce desired results. We learned that reporters were seeking information on trends covering such subjects as Travel Pods, Voluntourism, Zoom Towns, Great American Road Trip and RV Travel, Micro-cations, Staycations. Other aspects of importance included Safety and Hygiene clearly identified and a need for Flexible Bookings. Beyond real travel, editors wanted their audiences to dream and destinations knew they must “keep alive” their many attributes. Thus, virtual public relations came into play. Producing exciting video and creative photography became essential. As culinary is always a draw, having tastings, cooking demonstrations, recipes were well-liked. Visiting exhibitions, offering art lectures and showcasing attractions were popular. Even home fitness/wellness and telemedicine had an audience. Desiring to engage their customers, destinations moved in-person events online that met with great interest and success. Another virtual phenomenon was Zoom desk-side media/client meetings that allowed clients to tell their story in real time. The other big change was the disappearance of the “American News’ Room” with media working from home. This meant no down time and quick action to produce client results. In Conclusion – Yes, a new world for travel and for public relations serving this segment, however, some things never change. Knowing the media personally and giving them what they need when they need it, having positive relationships with clients and offering empathy during uncertain times and always going the extra mile are keys to success whatever the environment. via Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/10/30/travel-took-a-hit-but-creativity-is-putting-it-back-on-track/ feature image courtesy of Red Mountain Resort In the age of COVID-19, studies show travelers are less likely to take a long-haul flight to a big city and are instead opting for more frequent, shorter escapes, also known as microcations. See a selection of microcations destinations, easily accessible from a number of cities across the country, below. Aspen, CO – The Gant AspenLocated three and a half hours from Denver, CO and two hours from Grand Junction, CO, Aspen offers a world-class mountain retreat as bountiful in outdoor pursuits as modern culture. The Gant, nestled in an idyllic enclave at the base of Aspen Mountain, is an authentic mountain escape offering the comfort and privacy of home with the luxuries of resort amenities. Aspen abounds as a winter playground, beckoning winter sports aficionados and scenic snow (and après) seekers alike. Beyond powder days on unparalleled resort terrain at Aspen Snowmass, The Gant has partnered with trusted local outfitters including Nomad Inc., Aspen Center for Environmental Studies and more to thoughtfully create private experiences to explore the area. With inclusivity in mind, activities cater to avid skiers and snowboarders to winter scenery admirers alike including Rocky Mountain flightseeing, dog sled tours, heli-snowmobiling, heli-skiing, private guided snowshoe tours, ice-karting and more. For more information, visit gantaspen.com. Alexandria, VAOn the Potomac River within eyesight of Washington, D.C., Alexandria is nationally recognized for its rich history and beautifully preserved 18th and 19th century architecture. Old Town Alexandria is home to more than 200 independent restaurants and boutiques alongside intimate historic museums and new happenings at the waterfront, making it an ideal microcation for those who reside in D.C. This fall, cruise the tall ship Providence, get a celebrity hair refresh at Salon MONTE, embark on a self-guided black history driving tour and much more. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/3k4BMCt. Bristol, RIConsidered one of the “hidden gems” of the Northeast, Bristol has that classic, quaint, cozy New England vibe. About an hour drive from Boston, Bristol delivers first class cuisine, rich history, striking architecture, diverse waterfront activities, family fun and more alongside miles of accessible coastline, surrounded by Narragansett Bay to the west and Mount Hope Bay to the east. The city’s walkable downtown area features eclectic dining options, 18 parks, nine museums, independently-owned shops and a variety of authentic attractions. Visitors can experience the lifestyle of a 1750 Rhode Islander, visit the mansion of a slave trader, see where America’s Cup Race yachts were designed and built, wander a 400 acre historic saltwater farm, an oceanfront wildlife refuge or one of Yankee Magazine’s “Best 5 Public Gardens in New England.” Bristol beckons with authentic experiences to captivate all imaginations. For more information, visit www.explorebristolri.com Colorado Springs, CO – Garden of the Gods Resort and ClubLess than an hour and a half from Denver, CO, Colorado Springs brims with year-round activity, with Garden of the Gods Resort and Club offering an unparalleled retreat to soak in the setting. Majestic panoramic views of the resort overlook a 300-million-year-old national natural landmark, Garden of the Gods Park. This iconic park and snow-capped Pikes Peak in the distance are storied to have inspired the poem America the Beautiful. Resort amenities include golfing at its 27-hole championship course, indoor/outdoor tennis courts, three outdoor swimming pools, an array of dining experiences and a renowned wellness spa specializing in immunity boosting therapies, not to mention the allure of offerings beyond the resort including the new Olympic Museum and more than 60 area attractions, including trains, museums, parks, a zoo and more. For more information, visit gardenofthegodsresort.com. Hattiesburg, MSLess than a two-hour drive from Mobile, AL and New Orleans, LA. Hattiesburg is a premier city in the Gulf South, blending culture, art, food and history. The city is a civil rights destination that preserves and tells history through attractions like the 1964 Freedom Summer Trail and East Sixth Street Museum District. A creative community adds flair through locally owned restaurants, craft breweries, vibrant public art and boutique shops. For more information, visit www.visithburg.org. Isle of Palms, SC – Wild Dunes ResortLocated 30 minutes from historic downtown Charleston and near major metropolitan areas such as Atlanta and Charlotte, Isle of Palms is a small beach community that is ideal for those wanting to get away for a quiet and secluded vacation. This lush barrier island is located off the coast of South Carolina and features sweeping marsh land and views of the Atlantic Ocean as far as the eye can see. No visit to Isle of Palms is complete without a stay at Wild Dunes Resort, which occupies 1,600 acres of oceanfront paradise with a variety of accommodations ranging from the AAA Four-Diamond Rated Boardwalk Inn and the Village at Wild Dunes to private condos and luxury vacation home rentals. Offering a year-round menu of championship golf, nationally ranked tennis, award-winning recreation and restaurant options, Wild Dunes Resort has been distinguished by many as a top destination for families, couples, golfers and tennis lovers. For more information, visit www.destinationhotels.com/wild-dunes. Louisville, KYLocated two and a half hours from Nashville, TN and less than two hours from Indianapolis, Louisville is the perfect destination for a quick getaway. Louisville is pulsing with sports history, from Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and Muhammad Ali Center. The city is also home to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center at the Frazier History Museum and offers an Urban Bourbon Trail with over 40 restaurants and bars to enjoy America’s native spirit. For more information, visit: www.gotolouisville.com. Marquette, MILocated six hours from Chicago, IL and five hours from Milwaukee, WI, Marquette is the ideal microcation destination. Set on the shores of Lake Superior, Marquette is a community where nature’s assets are on display through scenic vistas, rugged trails and rushing waterfalls. Marquette’s historic downtown pays homage to the rich mineral deposits, dense forests and maritime markers that have helped to shape its story. From unique dining experiences, award-winning craft breweries and a thriving art scene, Marquette embraces a culture anchored in artisanship and ingenuity. For more information, visit travelmarquette.com. Montgomery, ALMontgomery, known as the birthplace of the civil rights movement, has played an important role in some of the most pivotal moments in American history and has reestablished itself as a must-see cultural destination in the South. Today, the destination continues to face intolerable issues head on, initiating unprecedented change for the better and inspiring the nation to fight for justice and equality. Given its close proximity to Atlanta, Nashville, Gulf Shores and Florida’s Gulf Coast, now is the ideal time to take an educational pit stop to visit its notable sites, fostering a unique dialogue regarding some of the darker chapters in American history and learning from these authentic truths. Cultural experiences include the Rosa Parks Museum, the Equal Justice Initiative’s National Memorial for Peace & Justice, F. Scott Fitzgerald Museum, Freedom Rides Museum, Dexter Avenue Church where Martin Luther King Jr. preached and more. For more information, visit visitingmontgomery.com. New HampshireOn the map, New Hampshire may seem like a small state, but its diverse regions offer a variety of destinations for the visitor – from historic river valleys to the soaring peaks of the highest mountains in the Northeast. Between stonewall lined roads flow quintessential New England villages, culturally rich cities, miles of scenic forests and parks, inviting lakes, natural rural landscapes and friendly Yankees renowned for their customer service and hospitality. The landscape offers a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities during any season. The state is an easy and quick getaway for anyone from the New England area. For more information, visit www.visitnh.gov. New Haven, CTFounded in 1638, New Haven is one of America’s most historic cities and a vibrant destination whose deep-rooted history has coined it the “Cultural Capital of Connecticut.” New Haven is a pedestrian-friendly destination and is an easy getaway from Boston or New York City. The city offers urban sophistication, charm and an early colonial history rivaling that of any New England destination. New Haven features award-winning restaurants, an abundance of green space, eclectic shopping, cultural adventures, a sophisticated nightlife and is the proud home of Yale University. New Haven also has plenty of activities such as arcades, escape rooms and adventure activities. For more information, visit www.infonewhaven.com. Paducah, KYLocated two hours from Nashville, TN and two and a half hours from St. Louis, MO, Paducah is an ideal microcation destination. Paducah is a small town with big city amenities. Despite a population of just 25,000, Paducah is home to a world-class museum, diverse culinary experiences and a historic walkable downtown. Designated a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts & Folk Art, Paducah is culturally rich and full of flavor. This fall, visit The National Quilt Museum for a special exhibition of Inspired by Endangered Species, a collection of lively, colorful and skillfully made fabric “portraits” of endangered species. For more information, visit www.paducah.travel. Panama City Beach, FLLocated within driving distance of many southern metropolitan areas, including Atlanta; Birmingham, AL; Nashville, TN; Orlando, FL; and New Orleans, Panama City Beach is best known for its 27 miles of sugar-white sand beaches edging emerald-green waters and has long been favored by travelers seeking an affordable beach vacation with year-round offerings for families, couples, groups and adventure-seekers. From world-renowned beaches and biking trails to exhilarating water adventures, Panama City Beach delivers a fun-filled Caribbean-like vacation without ever leaving the country. However, the best activity in Panama City Beach may be nothing at all, because a dose of Vitamin Sea, crashing waves and room to roam is good for the soul. For more information, visit www.visitpanamacitybeach.com. Providence, RIWith more than 25% of the U.S. population located within 500 miles, Providence is a quick getaway for many visitors. Providence is 40 miles from Boston, 185 miles from New York City and 350 miles from Montreal, Canada. Also coined New England’s ‘Creative Capital,’ the city is known for its thriving arts district, famed restaurant scene, commitment to historical preservation and sophisticated nightlife. Providence offers a variety of entertainment options for all types of travelers. For more information, visit www.goprovidence.com. Santa Barbara, CALocated less than two hours from Los Angeles, many refer to Santa Barbara as an easy and convenient microcation destination. Even though close to other cities, Santa Barbara feels like a distant getaway full of breathtaking beaches, soaring mountains, verdant vineyards and an incredible variety of outdoor dining outposts. Guests are encouraged to visit this October to take advantage of Visit Santa Barbara’s destination wide Third Night Free offer. For details on the deal and more on the destination, visit santabarbaraca.com/savvy. St. George, UT – Red Mountain ResortLocated two hours from Las Vegas, NV and four and a half hours from Salt Lake City, UT, Red Mountain Resort is a destination amidst a destination, offering convenient access to some of Utah’s favorite parks including Snow Canyon State Park, Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park. Red Mountain Resort is a premier wellness and adventure retreat inviting travelers to maximize their microcation with a bursting calendar of fitness and wellness classes, adventure excursions and spa offerings. For more information, visit redmountainresort.com. Vail, CO – Grand Hyatt VailLess than two hours from Denver, CO, Grand Hyatt Vail is an ideal resort destination within an iconic mountain town. Nestled along pristine Gore Creek and the base of Vail Mountain, Grand Hyatt Vail offers visitors an expansive basecamp for adventure or retreat in the Rocky Mountains. Amenities include three dining options, ski concierge, Vail’s only on-site, open air chair lift, outdoor ice skating rink, food truck, bike rental outfitter, infinity pool with spacious poolside cabanas, two outdoor creekside hot tubs, The Spa at Grand Hyatt Vail and seasonal weekly resort activities and entertainment. Beyond the resort, guests are a complimentary shuttle ride away from Vail’s world-class shopping, dining and culture. For more information, visit grandhyattvail.com. via Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/10/28/roundup-of-lhg-microcation-destinations/ With COVID-19 affecting lives around the world, there’s no denying that it also is affecting the content being shared on social media. Brands are more aware than ever about what they’re choosing to share on their platforms to ensure sensitivity and connection. LHG represents a wide range of travel, tourism and hospitality organizations, all of which have been impacted by COVID-19. These are the trends we’re seeing and what we’re recommending for our clients to share on social media during these unprecedented times. Recommendations on Social Content
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Even amidst this crisis, there is still an opportunity to connect and engage with your audience on social media and to be a valuable resource for the community in a meaningful and thoughtful way. Stay safe. via Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/10/22/covid-19-best-practices/ For years, sports tourism has been recognized as the fastest growing segment within the travel industry, generating a major economic impact for those destinations with the facilities to host regional and national games, tournaments and playoffs. Since 2013, experts estimate a 37% increase in direct spending related to sports events and consider the industry to be worth $11.4 billion, according to the National Association of Sports Commissions (NASC). Destinations across the country have recognized this vital source of potential revenue and as a result, they have chosen to invest in the proper resources to secure sporting events of all types. Unfortunately, when the coronavirus pandemic hit the United States with full force, the sports tourism industry, along with all travel, came to an abrupt halt. However, as states and cities have slowly begun to reopen, destinations have found an unparalleled demand for sports tourism and with it, a distinct opportunity for acquiring crucial revenue for recovery. Sports Tourism Amid COVID-19Panama City Beach, Fla., most known for its 27 miles of sugar-white sand beaches and emerald-green waters, has experienced firsthand the increasing popularity and financial impact of sports tourism thanks to the destination’s new, world-class $37 million Panama City Beach Sports Complex. The sports complex, which opened in July 2019, was almost completely booked prior to coronavirus, hosting 80,000 visitors resulting in 120,000 room nights in the destination for a $56 million-dollar direct impact in less than a year. As the state of Florida eased restrictions on sporting events and Panama City Beach reopened, the destination discovered that the demand for sports tourism had already returned. The sports complex and destination quickly identified the sports and areas of need and then worked to book the resulting games and tournaments in search of a host site. Following a two-month closure due to COVID-19, the sports complex hosted its first tournaments on May 29 – the USFA Softball and Perfect Game Baseball tournaments – bringing a combined 100 teams to Panama City Beach. One week later on June 5, the destination’s older complex, Frank Brown Park, hosted 54 softball teams and 30 adult kickball teams. In November, it will host the 40th annual USA Field Hockey National Hockey Festival, which will fill an estimated 5,000 rooms. This is not the first time sports tourism has positively impacted Panama City Beach after a crisis. In 2010, summer tourism received a direct hit from the BP Oil Spill. Visit Panama City Beach President and CEO Dan Rowe wholeheartedly believes that youth recreational sports helped Bay County tremendously. That summer, Frank Brown Park hosted both youth and adult sporting events, and families traveling with their student athletes still came to Panama City Beach regardless of the spill’s impact on the beach. In the end, Panama City Beach saw their numbers drop only 15%, while others dropped 40% or more. Ten years following the BP Oil Spill, Panama City Beach is weathering a new kind of storm with COVID-19. However, with an estimated $80 million annual impact, sports tourism is once again setting Panama City Beach apart and leading them on speedy road to recovery. Destinations Are Planning for the FutureSimilar to Panama City Beach, Collier County, Fla. has been an established destination for youth sports for years. Recognizing the important role of sports tourism in the area, local officials made plans to enhance their resources by building an $80 million county-owned Paradise Coast Sports Complex. Opening in July 2020, Southwest Florida is now home to one of the greatest sports facilities in the country. Once the entirety of the project is completed in 2021, the complex will feature 19 full-size artificial turf fields and a 3,500-seat stadium. This new complex will further enhance Collier County’s appeal as a year-round tournament and event destination and is expected to attract youth sports tournaments on a national scale. Just this month, Paducah, Ky. unveiled brand-new multipurpose sports courts with the goal of bringing sports tourism dollars to area. Located inside the Paducah-McCracken County Convention and Expo Center, this upgraded, 40,000-square-foot facility includes both basketball and volleyball courts. Local officials hope the new facility will attract student athletes and their families from St. Louis, Nashville, Louisville and other neighboring cities, encouraging them to stay overnight in the destination’s hotels and dine at local restaurants. As the country continues to reopen, sports tourism will continue to surge, with more youths looking to get back on the field for games and tournaments. Regardless of the size or scope of resources, destinations should continue to actively invest in this industry and reap the economic benefits. via Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/09/30/how-destinations-are-hitting-a-home-run-with-sports-tourism/ NEW YORK, September 8, 2020 – Lou Hammond Group (LHG) is proud to announce new clients for public relations/corporate communications, strategic planning, creative services and digital marketing: Travel/Real Estate Visit Hattiesburg – an innovative and artistic Mississippi city showcasing a vivid history, civil rights experiences, acclaimed culinary, outdoor activities with the opportunity of live, work and play. Grand Hyatt Vail – A 285-room resort offering three dining options, a 58,000-sq.-ft. fitness center, on site chair lift, ski concierge, outdoor ice-skating rink, infinity pool and a traditional alpine spa. Sweetgrass Inn – Wild Dunes Resort’s newest hotel, is a 153 room oceanside hotel located on Isle of Palms near Charleston scheduled to open in spring 2021. East West Partners – Two new residential properties in Greater Charleston; The Waterfront, on Daniel Island and The Wentworth, downtown. Technology Mura – A web-based content management system designed specifically for marketers, content managers, web developers and IT professionals to create, manage and customize websites/web applications. NearShore Technology – An Inc. 5000-ranked IT project development and team enhancement service provider specializing in software development, staff augmentation and outsourced, on-demand IT services for high-tech, healthcare and financial enterprises. Lou Hammond Group is an award-winning full-service marketing communications firm representing premium brands globally. The company, founded in 1984, is headquartered in New York with offices in Charleston, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles and Miami. Visit www.louhammond.com. # # # via Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/09/16/six-new-clients-join-lou-hammond-group/ As COVID-19’s impact on travel has made most Americans shift any international travel plans for the near future, we’re looking within the United States for interesting destinations to explore. And while there’s no Eiffel Tower or Coliseum stateside, there’s a number of domestic cities with international flair where travelers can visit and experience culture, outdoor dining, shopping and more. Outlined below are a number of destinations LHG represents that can hold their own to any European city. If you’re interested in learning more, please reach out to Vice President Carlyn Topkin who can assist in connecting you to the appropriate account person. Carlyn can be reached at [email protected] Trade Barcelona, Spain, for Santa Barbara, CaliforniaSpanish Colonial influence can be seen around every corner in Santa Barbara. Spanish settlers gave the city its distinct architectural style in the form of Old Mission Santa Barbara and what is now the Country Courthouse – a style that was carried forward by local visionaries after a massive earthquake destroyed much of the area’s infrastructure in 1925. Today, Santa Barbra relives Latin heritage during Old Spanish Fiesta Days. Santa Barbara is chock-full of vivid art installations, historic landmarks and incredible architecture. The town’s Spanish heritage shines through the white-washed adobe buildings, red tile roofs and hacienda-style design. https://santabarbaraca.com/ Trade Salamanca, Spain, for Santa Fe, New MexicoSpanish explorers and then Spanish colonial settlers were traveling to and establishing “La Villa Real de la Santa Fe de San Francisco de Asis” (or what is known as modern day Santa Fe, New Mexico) back in 1610. This Spanish/European influence meshed with local Native American culture to become one of the most unique cities in the U.S. that has retained a strong sense of place and one of a kind destination. To visit sites that reveal the history of the Spanish colonial times in the Southwest, United States, start in the historic Santa Fe Plaza area. Here you can visit the Palace of the Governors building (http://www.palaceofthegovernors.org/index.php) which is known as the oldest, continuously operating government building in the U.S., the “Oldest Church” in the U.S. the San Miguel Mission (www.sanmiguelchapel.org) which is also a true Adobe structure and the “Oldest House” in the U.S. https://santafe.org/ Trade Paris, for Alexandria, VirginiaCobblestone and Brick Lined Streets – In Alexandria, there is a new discovery waiting around every corner that will make individuals feel like they’re exploring Paris. Take a stroll on a brick-lined streets and people will find chef-driven restaurants, cobblestone alleyways, surprising architectural details, independently owned boutiques and galleries and the Old Town Farmers’ Market outside on Saturdays. The gaslit lamps and narrow streets are enough to make you feel like you could be in Paris. Alexandria is packed with vibrant and diverse architectural styles and gardens reminiscent of Paris. Just like the Seine River Cruise, visitors can find a varied collection of cruises on the Potomac River, connecting to Washington, DC to the north, Mount Vernon to the south, and everywhere in between. With Potomac Riverboat Company, you can cruise to see the monuments, visit the National Mall, catch a baseball game, see the Cherry Blossoms in the springtime, and more. https://www.visitalexandriava.com/ Trade Copenhagen, for Lambertville, New JerseyThis picturesque Delaware River was founded in 1705 and is home to many antique shops in equally antique buildings, in addition to incredible outdoor dining along the waterfront, being pedestrian-friendly, artsy, inclusive to all and even has some great outdoor attributes not too far. Lambertville is known as a place for “free spirits,” a haven for artists and craftsmen. And the town’s architecture is as interesting as its residents. Trade Negril, Jamaica for Panama City Beach, FloridaPanama City Beach is situated on 27 miles of sugar-white sand beaches bordering clear, emerald-green waters where the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrew Bay converge. From renowned beaches and world class fishing and diving experiences to fun-filled water and amusement parks and a 1.1 million square-foot lifestyle center, Panama City Beach delivers a Jamaican-like vacation without ever leaving the country. Offshore, visitors can enjoy charming vendors and shops, delicious local seafood and live-music offered nightly. The region has long been favored by travelers seeking an affordable beach vacation with year-round offerings for families, couples, groups and adventure-seekers. https://www.visitpanamacitybeach.com/
Trade Cassis, France for Charleston, South CarolinaTravelers near and far continue to be charmed by the cobblestone streets, pastel buildings and historical homes found in Charleston, South Carolina. Many flock to this Southern gem to enjoy the walkable downtown and picturesque waterfront that resembles European locale that can only be found in the French Riviera. While most known for its Southern culture, cuisine and world-class hotels, the Holy City’s historic museums and landmarks that make up the Charleston Heritage Federation tell the story of our nation’s beginnings and preserves the region’s rich history, similar to historical offerings found in Cassis. https://www.charlestoncvb.com/
via Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/08/17/domestic-destinations-with-international-flair/ Joshua Frankel recounts the benefits of gaining real-world public relations experience after recently completing his internship at our Charleston office. Joshua will complete his undergraduate degree in Business from University of South Carolina next spring of 2021. During the fall of 2019 my biggest ambition as a rising senior was earning an internship before I graduate and begin my journey into the “real world”. Walking into my initial interview with Lou Hammond Group (LHG) I was filled with a flood of emotions. However, my nervousness, stress, and even a bit of intimidation all quickly dissolved within the first ten minutes of walking through the door. Aside from the incredibly talented team, the determination and leadership that is exemplified by everyone to be the best possible public relations specialist is astonishing. Stepping out of the classroom and into the office at LHG gave me the opportunity and the experience to see how much the media landscape and traditional public relations industry has changed since Edward Bernays was originally hired by American Tobacco Company. Today, a vast variety of industries employ PR specialists, challenging them to tailor their pitches to break through the noise, as opposed to sending out hundreds of the same press releases in the hopes of getting a hit. In addition to this, while I was at LHG I learned the importance of building segmented media lists and creating customized pitches for writers and editors, all while staying current on outlets and events. In the month that I spent interning with LHG, I couldn’t have been more surprised at how comfortable I felt asking questions, making calls, and adding input to projects. My favorite part about working for LHG was the genuine human connections I got to build not just with my teams but with the clients that we also work with outside of our office. For all college students and any rising juniors or seniors who may have the same ambitions as I did, LHG is not just an internship or a place where you come to get experience in the office. It is a haven of informative lessons and experiences on how to not just better yourself, but the entire public relations industry. via Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/07/17/the-summer-intern-experience-at-lhg/ Growing up in Florida, many of our public schools incorporated a language into our daily schedule, and it was in the third grade that it started to click for me that it was much more than vocab words we were learning, but the first peek into another culture that was so different from ours. Spaniards got to take naps during the day! And eat churros! And how cool what we call soccer, they call football! For a third grader, these were major highlights that got me fascinated with Spanish culture.
My passion for travel is easy to fulfill by living in New York, with the convenience of having international airports within reach, often leading to great flight deals. It was not uncommon to book a trip on a moment’s notice. Process: see a great flight deal – $300 to Iceland! $250 to Barcelona! – quickly text a few friends and go from sitting on the couch to booking trip in 15 minutes. (Good thing those PTO requests always got approved!). To consider the world our playground was a blessing we never truly stopped to appreciate it until COVID-19 hit, and we suddenly couldn’t travel freely. Besides the rush of adrenaline I’d feel from snagging a great deal, why do we travel? Sure, in recent years there’s people that only ‘do it for the gram,’ but we all know it’s much deeper than that. We travel to meet new people, try different foods, see art. We travel to see if it can’t really be all that hard to drive a car with the steering wheel on the right side (spoiler: definitely a bit trickier than it seems.) We travel as a way to bond with our friends, family and partners and create experiences and memories that can change the way we see the world. To escape the bubble we live in and take a look into the ways others eat, play, drink, live and dream. When the pandemic started to feel real, I was traveling in Scottsdale, Arizona for a bachelorette party when the NBA paused the season due to the virus and Major League Baseball shutdown spring training. We started hearing rumblings of not being allowed to fly back to New York and even spent a few minutes playing out the possibilities if our flights were cancelled. Thankfully we were able to fly home, but it was the first time I stepped on a plane and suddenly felt scared. We wiped down our seats and the airline did their best to space us out but there was a lingering of uncertainty that didn’t go away for the duration of the flight. Returning to New York felt eerie. People in Arizona were visiting bars and swimming in public pools and suddenly I’m elbowing people for toilet paper and stocking up soups from Duane Reade. On March 13 we were told we wouldn’t be back in the office for an undisclosed time, and it’s crazy to think of how the world’s changed over the last four months. Not only was leisure travel now on hold, but my job focuses on travel – what would happen to the tourism industry? After we all took a few days to catch our breath, we set into action. Virtual experiences, live streaming web cameras, video conferencing backgrounds – we started brainstorming ways that we could bring the destinations to consumers who were suddenly bound to their home. New Jersey transported people to the iconic Jersey shore with a compilation of beach cams and created a Spotify list of greatest hits from some of the state’s best talent. Alexandria, Virginia brought visitors the overly cute “Lamb Cam” at Mount Vernon and live streaming of workout classes. Nassau Paradise Island even launched an app for TVs and smartphones that featured six different calming beaches you could play. As the stay-at-home orders continued, businesses started getting more creative. Wineries from around the world, including Sonoma County, launched virtual wine tastings – allowing customers a personalized experience to engage with some of their favorite brands. Destinations launched cooking classes, quilting lessons and musicians started teaching guitar through services like Zoom. We all suddenly found ways to connect with the places we loved from our kitchens and couches. Being confined to my apartment helped me slow down. Suddenly, it wasn’t about all far-off places I could go but about exploring where I lived. Slowing down meant taking previously unexplored walking paths, learning to cook new recipes and overall appreciating the small beauty when we could find it, like a clear spring day or the sun setting over New Jersey. With many international borders closed to Americans, many are predicting a surge in staycations and road-trips this summer. Data has shown travelers are still hesitant to board a flight for a vacation but are open to driving themselves to a destination in their own car or even an RV. DMO’s and CVB’s, short on marketing budgets, are also going after the local market with a new lens, encouraging locals to play tourist for a day in their own city and visit restaurants, bars and shops to help reinvigorate tourism. I’m looking forward to discovering the hidden gems throughout New York City and the surrounding state that may have never been on my radar. New travel goals for this summer include finding the best soft serve vanilla ice cream cone in the tri-state and visiting a u-pick farm for the first time. We travel to learn and educate ourselves about the way others live but when travel went away many of us learned new ways to do it. Special places are all around us and I think I’m not alone in learning it doesn’t always take a plane ticket to have a great adventure and a way to build incredible memories. While we wait for the world to reopen to travel and dream of the once-in-a-lifetime trips to places like Peru or Thailand, it’s a good reminder that sometimes an ice cream cone with people you love can also be the perfect setting to create a lasting memory. via Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/06/25/why-do-we-travel/ |
AuthorLou Hammond Group is a global public relations agency specializing in lifestyle, travel & technology with offices in New York City, Charleston, SC, Houston, TX, Miami, FL and Los Angeles, CA. Contact
Lou Hammond Group - Houston 410 Pierce Street, Ste 220 Houston, TX 77002 Phone: 713-568-6109 Email: [email protected] Website: https://louhammond.com/houston-tx/ FIND ME ONLINE
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