RALEIGH - Gov. Bev Perdue today announced the launch of the state’s newly redesigned tourism Web site, www.VisitNC.com. The site, which is run by the N.C. Department of Commerce’s Division of Tourism, Film and Sports Development, is aimed at today’s sophisticated Web user who can customize the site’s content and connect to more than 16,000 travel-related businesses, attractions and events across the state.
“This Web site provides a new tool as we begin working to revitalize our economy,” Governor Perdue said. “Tourism is one of the state’s most vital industries, and increasing the number of visitors will boost our economy and help thousands of business owners, many of whom are small, independent, locally based entrepreneurs.”
Visitors spent more than $16 billion in North Carolina in 2007, generating more than 190,000 jobs. In addition, state and local tax revenues from visitor spending totaled more than $1.3 billion. More than 95 percent of inquiries first come in through the Web site, making it a critical tool for the state’s promotional efforts.
The new Web site celebrates the state’s diversity and range of activities including spas and resorts; the growing culinary, wine and micro-brewery scenes; Native American culture and African-American heritage; golf; home-grown arts and crafts; cultural events and more.
VisitNC.com not only offers opportunities for users to customize content, it makes finding information simpler than ever with customized search features and easy-to-use “Journeys,” which are experience-based theme areas. Currently 23 Journeys showcase 303 articles, 43 videos, 849 photo images, 119 brochure downloads and 112 vacation ideas. The themes include North Carolina food and wine, the state’s vibrant cities and small towns, arts and artisans, historic sites, golf, outdoors and family fun, among others.
“This site drew more than 8 million visitors last year,” Governor Perdue said. “This year, we expect it to receive more attention, which will position us to bring even more visitors to the state and our tourism-related businesses.”