Sunshine Matters

With the recent announcement that the IIFA Awards are coming to Tampa, it seems like a perfect time to share some information on VISIT FLORIDA’s multi-pronged outreach efforts to the Indian market.

Our first foray in establishing the Florida brand in India came in 2011, when we participated in Brand USA’s India Mission.  In August 2012, we contracted with Aviareps to be our in-country representation.  Earlier this summer,  VISIT FLORIDA coordinated two fams for Indians in Florida.  The first tour included journalists from major Indian publications and the second was geared to Indian tour operators and travel agents.  Both fams explored Miami, the Kennedy Space Center and various theme parks in Orlando.

For FY 2013-2014, VISIT FLORIDA will be hosting a sales mission and VIP event for nearly 75 attendees in Mumbai, New Delhi on September 20, 2013.  VIP invitees will include general managers of travel agencies and tour operators, hoteliers based in Florida, airline representatives, the U.S. Consulate and members of travel associations like VUSACOM, TAAT and TAFO, just to name a few.  These events will coincide with this year’s Brand USA India Mission, maximizing our Partners’ time in market.  In addition, we will be offering the two in-state fams again this year – one for the media and one for the travel trade.

As VISIT FLORIDA looks to expand our efforts in the Indian market, we will be creating more social media and digital offerings.  For example, we will be featuring an Indian-targeted “splash page” on our website with a listing of Indian-cuisine restaurants in Florida by area.  Our research and experience shows that many Indians are vegetarian and after a few days of travelling and of American fare they like to have a traditional Indian meal.

To learn more about participating in VISIT FLORIDA’s India Mission/VIP Event, check out our Marketing Planner.  Also, email me directly at letemadi@VISITFLORIDA.org if you would like the Indian cuisine restaurants in your area to be included on our list.