News Release (20/03/09)
Representatives of the South West’s travel and tourism industry will be making a whistle-stop tour of the United States next week (23-27 March) as part of a campaign to promote the region to American visitors. A team from Bristol International Airport and Destination Bristol will be visiting Continental Airlines’ call centres in Florida, Houston and Salt Lake City with the aim of raising the profile of Bristol and the South West and attracting more inbound visitors.
Over the course of the week the team will present to thousands of Continental staff whose job it is to advise customers on their travel plans. By focusing on the airport’s proximity to world-famous attractions and events (including Bath, the Cotswolds, Stonehenge and the 2010 Ryder Cup), Bristol International will be positioned as a convenient gateway to the UK for American tourists.
Continental Airlines has operated a daily service to New York from Bristol International for just under four years. As well as providing a direct route between Bristol International and the Big Apple, Continental’s service also connects to more than 200 cities throughout the Americas via the airline’s New York hub at Newark Liberty International Airport. Over 300,000 passengers have used the service since its launch in May 2005, with US-originating travellers accounting for approximately half of the total.
American visitors spend more money in the UK than any other nationality, staying an average of eight nights and spending £744 per visit. Those who fly into or out of Bristol International are likely to spend more time in the South West, benefiting local hotels, restaurants and attractions.
Jason Wescott, Head of Sales and Marketing at Bristol International, said:
“Now is a good time for Americans to visit the UK, with the exchange rate offering them great value for money. We want to make sure that Bristol is the destination of choice for those looking to visit the many sights and attractions the South West has to offer. Our campaign in the United States next week is part of our overall strategy to promote inbound tourism to the region."
John Hallett, Managing Director of Destination Bristol, said:
“Americans have traditionally visited the South West on day trips. Continental’s Bristol-New York flight provides an opportunity for us to attract American visitors directly into the region, extending the time and money they spend here.”