Tags : 2023

Agritourism Provides Fields for Fun & Learning

Although Florida is known for sunny beaches, epic amusement parks and major historical sites, Agritourism has recently been attracting visitors throughout the First Coast region. Agritourism is unique because it allows local farm owners to share their passion and knowledge of agriculture, as well as their love of nature and animals, with people of all […]Read More

Powered by Personalization, Niche Tourism is Thriving

Karolina Guilcapi has been to South America 42 times — for business and pleasure. As the founder of Sated Ventures, Guilcapi couldn’t hide her love and excitement for food and travel if she tried. Her boutique travel agency in Palm Coast, Florida, aims to delight travelers with foodie experiences that simply can’t be booked through […]Read More

A “Kick” in the Grass: Soccer Comes to the Region

The First Coast may be in the throes of an athletic renaissance of sorts. A grassroots movement is opening a myriad of doors of economic opportunity as it fosters a sense of community and collaboration. When you think of our region in terms of sporting events, which games come to mind? Soccer should be high […]Read More

Sun-Soaked Transitions: From Visitor to Local

Long before Flagler built the Ponce de Leon Hotel, tourists, entrepreneurs and artists came to St. Augustine for vacation and stayed. That transition from north to south, or west to east, continues with some new residents starting or expanding a business and others working remotely from home. Why have they chosen to come to this […]Read More

From Rebound to Resilience: Perspectives from Local Tourism Development Directors

Q&A with Tourisim Directors From the impact of the pandemic on visitor numbers to future projections and challenges, local tourism development directors share their insights and experiences as we delve into the dynamic world of tourism.  Kimberly Morgan Director of Tourism & Film Development Clay County Tera Meeks Tourism and Cultural Development Director St. Johns County […]Read More

St. Johns Chamber Transforms Travel for Neurodiverse Families

Isabelle Renault knows firsthand that traveling with a child with special needs can present its own unique set of challenges. But the president and CEO of the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce is hoping that a new program can help families like hers make more memories while experiencing less worry. St. John’s County and […]Read More

The Road Ahead for Florida’s Tourism Industry

The future of Florida’s tourism industry is bright! The Sunshine State has been the number one choice of destination in the U.S. for domestic and international travelers, and we see that trend continuing. In 2022, we welcomed a record 137.41 million visitors – a year-over-year increase of nearly 16 million visitors. In addition to that […]Read More

Mentoring a Child Can Spark a Career

Potential. How do we help children in our community – especially children experiencing challenges at home or school – reach their potential? One proven strategy is through the one-to-one mentoring relationships offered through Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Johns County (BBBS). BBBS offers both site and community-based mentoring which match children ages 6-12 with […]Read More