Rhythms of the South Plans New Direction

The Rhythms of the South Regional International showcase plans to reformat and redesign the look of the show as well as expand the exhibitor and buyer base. To encompass new global business opportunities for the hospitality industry, the Rhythms of the South Alliance - comprised of Atlanta, Nashville and New Orleans - has committed to building an expanded marketplace and intends to reintroduce the show in 2009.

The annual travel tradeshow promotes the Southeastern U.S. as a tourism destination to more than 100 international tour operators and media. For six years, Rhythms of the South has featured Southern destinations as a regional experience for international travelers, showcasing the unique culture and lifestyle of the South. The show’s current format provides an intimate, one-on-one buyer-to-supplier sales opportunity. The host city rotates annually between the Alliance partner cities, drawing an average of more than one hundred buyers matched with the same number of suppliers from between 20 and 30 countries. Exhibits feature destinations and attractions from throughout the South, showcasing the diversity of the region from its magnificent oceans in the South to the majesty of the Appalachian Mountains in the North.

The experience is brought together for international travelers using Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (HJAIA), the world’s busiest and most accessible airport, and Delta Air Lines’ encompassing schedule throughout the region with connections to more than 80 international destinations in fifty countries.

According to Butch Spyridon, president of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau and current chairperson for the Rhythms of the South Alliance, “At the time the show was introduced, 20 percent of Delta Air Lines’ schedule was targeted at international markets. Today, more than 40 percent of their schedule operates flights from HAJIA to 80 destinations in 50 countries throughout the world. Our region’s major international airline hub, Hartsfield-Jackson International airport, reported a 12 percent increase in international airline traffic for 2007 over 2006, serving 9.2 million international visitors entering and exiting our region.”

The Alliance will meet with the airline industry and hospitality industry associations throughout the region in 2008 to solicit input and participation in the expanded format of the show. The new show format is expected to be announced in early 2009.

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For more information, please contact:
Bill Howard
ACVB
Vice President, Marketing
404.521.6634
bhoward@atlanta.net