Tour Options - Fabulous Fall Festivals

Many locals and visitors alike will tell you that fall is a special time in the Myrtle Beach area. More couples begin arriving after Labor Day. Soon the fall golf season begins. Daytime temperatures are comfortable. The nights begin to cool off ever so slightly. For the tour planner looking to offer their clients something fresh, the Myrtle Beach area has so much to offer.

The area’s main draws will always be wide sandy beaches, live entertainment theatres, fun filled attractions, great dining and accommodations to fit any budget. However, with the fall months great festivals arrive. Many are absolutely free, while others require just a small fee. Here are a few to get you started.

The 5^th Annual Beach, Boogie & BBQ Festival scheduled for September 3 & 4, 2010 wraps-up the Sun Fun Celebration of Summer and kicks-off the fall festivals. Live entertainment, great food and cooking competitions and a really neat car show will highlight the activities held at Grand Park, across from The Market Common. Visit www.BeachBoogieBarbequeFestival.com for updates on events and activities.

September 9 through 12, 2010 marks the 2^nd Annual Grand Strand Freedom Fest. The event will be held in honor and memory of the victims, families and first responders of September 11th, 2001 – and of the brave women and men of America’s Armed Forces who have been protecting us ever since. Proceeds raised by this not-for-profit event will be directed to Operation First Response, an organization that has been supporting wounded soldiers and their families since 2001. A free concert by the Long Bay Symphony and a concert by LeAnn Rimes the following evening highlighted the 2009 events. For more information visit http://www.grandstrandfreedomfest.com/index.cfm

The Society of Stranders (SOS) Fall Migration, September 17-27, 2010, is the Granddaddy of the SOS Shag dance (South Carolina State Dance) parties and is highlighted by Fun Sunday and Fun Monday, free street parties with live music throughout the day. Visit www.shagdance.com/migration.htm or call 888-767-3113 for details.

From Little River, a South Carolina coastal fishing community, the Little River Shrimp & Jazz Festival is scheduled for October 9 & 10, 2010. Arts, crafts, great food and wonderful entertainment are the recipe for fun at this two-day festival. A $3 admission fee is required. For more information call 866-817-8082, or visit online at www.LittleRiverChamber.org.

Brookgreen Garden’s annual fall festival, Harvest Home Weekend, October 16 & 17, 2010 fills two days with live entertainment and outdoor activities. The popular scarecrow-building contest, hayrides, pumpkin painting patch, and face painting are just a few of the events. Group rates to Brookgreen Gardens include all festival activities and events.  Visit www.brookgreen.org, or call 800-849-1931 for information.

Supplier Spotlight - Alabama Theatre

Groups provide Alabama Theatre a solid foundation
On February 4, 2010 Alabama Theatre opened for its 17^th season and One the Show producer Gaylord Entertainment did not disappoint. Significant changes are made every year and the talented Alabama Theatre professionals deliver an incredible entertainment experience of music, dancing and comedy.

“In 1993 our show was the first produced by Gaylord Entertainment outside of their own,” stated Bob Wood, president of Alabama Theatre. “We are the largest and longest running show they produce,” Wood continued. Every year the show changes considerably so groups will see something entirely new every year.

Those visitors are extremely important to Alabama Theatre. “Basically, groups are our foundation. When satisfied they’ll spread the word to family and friends and often return on their own for a visit,” stated Charles Bradshaw, vice president of sales at Alabama Theatre. “They deserve and receive special attention, including a personal greeting, preferred seating and an Alabama Theatre souvenir,” Bradshaw continued.

Wood and Bradshaw agree that the partnership with Gaylord Entertainment has been special. Staying current with new technology, including video equipment is only the beginning. Gaylord Entertainment purchasing for multiple productions allows for costuming that would be almost cost prohibitive, if purchased on their own. “However, the biggest change in the show over the years has been talent,” Wood stated. “We’re fortunate to have industry recognized, award winning entertainers on our stage,” he continued.

Along with changes to One the Show, Alabama Theatre is witnessing changes in the group segment. “Certainly the groups are younger and we’re not seeing as many retail groups as in our earlier years,” Bradshaw said. However, Alabama Theatre is seeing those losses offset by significant increases in preformed groups and the student/youth segment.

Keeping pace with these changes is a group team with more than 50-years of experience. “Our staff is truly professional. We pay attention to our product and provide a high level of customer service,” Bradshaw concluded.

With that type of commitment to the industry, groups will continue to be the foundation at Alabama Theatre. For more information visit online at www.Alabama-Theatre.com, or group@Alabama-Theatre.com or 800-782-2262.

In the News - Legends in Concert

Legends in Concert introduces 3-R program: Rhythm, Rock n’ Roll
MYRTLE BEACH, SC (February 10, 2010) – The new for 2010 Legends in Concert 3-R Program: Rhythm, Rock n’ Roll provides Q&A sessions with a Legend, performance opportunities, a language arts and history component. A special concession package and student rate is available. For further information telephone the Group Sales Department at 800-955-3436, e-mail aeckenrode@legendsinconcert.com or visit online at www.legendsinconcerrt.com

In the News - Magiquest

Holowacz to MagiQuest – Broadway at the Beach
MYRTLE BEACH, SC (February 11, 2010) – Industry veteran Cheryl S. Holowacz has joined MagiQuest, the world’s largest live action game, as Group Sales & Marketing Manager. “I am extremely excited to introduce the MagiQuest experience to both the student/youth and corporate team-building markets,” Holowacz stated. “It is truly a unique product that can actually be tailored for any group,” she added. Previously, Holowacz was Group Sales Manager and Rental Coordinator at The Palace Theatre. She has worked in the hospitality/attractions industry for over 20-years and is co-owner of fareless.com, a full service online travel site. To learn more telephone 843-916-1800 x 225, e-mail Cheryl@magiquest.com or online at www.magiquest.com

In the News - The Palace Theatre

Formo named Group Sales Director at The Palace Theatre – Broadway at the Beach
MYRTLE BEACH, SC (February 12, 2010) - Dawn Formo, a 3-year group sales representative at The Palace Theatre has been named the venues, Director of Group Sales. A graduate of Winthrop University Formo brings over 10-years experience in hospitality sales and customer service to her new position. “I am extremely excited to be working with our Broadway shows and other expanded offerings, including our new school program and Meet & Greet with an entertainer package,” Formo said. “It’s rewarding to assist groups with their travel plans to Myrtle Beach,” she continued. For further information telephone 866-247-6877, Dawn.F@PalaceTheatreMyrtleBeach.com or www.PalaceTheatreMyrtleBeach.com

Tour Options - Go fly a kite. Really!

Close your eyes for just a moment and go back to when you were just a kid. Remember those breezy spring days that beckoned you to build the best kite in the neighborhood. Surely, your masterpiece flew to never before seen heights! Fun days for certain with the only real challenge being “where do I launch.”

Although groups have always visited the Myrtle Beach area for shows, shopping, dining and amusements, the beach is still the major attraction. With the Grand Strand’s 60-miles of wide, sandy beaches, “where do I launch” is never a challenge. Adding a kite flying activity to your itinerary is really quite easy and makes for a fun morning. Here’s how.

First of all, it’s necessary to share a few facts and a little “kite history” to impress your clients and friends. March 27 – May 2, 2010 is National Kite Month® sponsored by The AKA (American Kitefliers Association) in cooperation with the KTAI (Kite Trade Association International). They have a really great web site at http://www.nationalkitemonth.org/.

Although the date and origin of kite flying is unknown, the first written record came about 200 B.C. A Chinese general flew a kite over a city he was attacking, measuring the distance his army needed to tunnel to get past the defensive walls. Over time kites have been used to fly messages to lovers, deliver bait over fishing waters, signal during wars and of course scientific applications to learn more about wind and weather. With just this little bit of knowledge, let’s proceed.

We suggest you divide your group into teams. Each team will have builders and aviators. This addresses any mobility issues, while still allowing everyone to participate. Of course the builders are charged with the construction of the kites, while the aviators are your kitefliers. Hard hats, goggles and an air traffic controller are optional.

There are two ways to proceed. Purchasing a pre-packaged kit from a Myrtle Beach area retailer is certainly an option. We suggest you visit Klig’s Kites with locations at both Barefoot Landing/North Myrtle Beach and Coastal Grand Mall/Myrtle Beach. As the name implies, they are all about kites. From the simple to the extravagant you can choose from hundreds of styles. It’s one stop shopping for everything you’ll need, including some advice on what styles are easiest to construct and fly. Call them at 843-448-7881 or visit online at http://kligbro.com/.

For the more adventuresome group that’s ready to build from scratch and really test their skills, visit http://www.nationalkitemonth.org/plans. Kite plans for the beginner and links for builders with intermediate experience and the very experienced are available. All the materials and direction you’ll need are clearly laid out. In addition there are teacher resources for celebrating National Kite Month.

Kite constructing really doesn’t require a great deal of room, unless your building something that resembles a hot air balloon. When weather permits working by your hotel’s pool or picnic area might be suitable. Possibly, the use of a meeting room for a few hours can be arranged. Covered picnic areas at either Myrtle Beach State Park, or Huntington Beach State Park are great for assembly and provide plenty of accessible beach area for flying. There is a modest fee to enter South Carolina State Parks.

With the teams in place and construction completed, the next step is to cover the sky with brightly colored flying objects. At least on paper that’s how it should work. Regardless of the outcome you can be assured of a fun filled morning.

To keep the memory alive and reward your teams, some trophies and prizes are in order. We suggest a “First In Flight” (with all due respect to Ohio and North Carolina) award, the “Kute Kite” award and of course the “We Didn’t Know It Was Suppose to Fly” award(s). Have fun and enjoy!

In the News -Tour Planner Guide available

New Myrtle Beach Area CVB Group Planner Guide available 

MYRTLE BEACH (January 27, 2010) – The Myrtle Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau has a new Meeting & Group Planner Guide available. The Accommodations section details properties that accept convention groups, motorcoach groups, student groups and sports groups, while also providing facilities and amenity specifics. The Theatre sections details the area’s live performance venues. The Dining tab introduces some of the Myrtle Beach area culinary options. The Sports Venues section provides information on the area’s many facilities. The Services section shares the assistance you can expect from the CVB. The Myrtle Beach Convention Center is introduced, including a detailed floor plan. Copies of the new guide are available by calling 800-488-8998, or e-mailing Sandy Haines at Sandy.Haines@VisitMyrtleBeach.com.

In the News -Seafare to new location

Seafare Seafood and Prime Rib Buffet to new location

MYRTLE BEACH (February 9, 2010) – The Seafare Restaurant has been at the forefront of buffet restaurants in the Myrtle Beach area and servicing groups for nearly 20-years. Having outgrown their Surfside Beach location, Stephen Karos and his wife Nicole have opened their new location at 9925 North Kings Highway on the famous Restaurant Row. Almost exactly half way between Alabama Theatre and The Carolina Opry, the new location provides easy motorcoach access and plenty of parking. The pirate and mermaid themed seafood restaurant features a 120-items buffet. Visit online at http://www.seafarerestaurant.com/, e-mail info@seafarerrestaurant.com or telephone 843-232-1366.

Supplier Spotlight - Myrtle Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

First stop for successful Myrtle Beach area tours

For 72-years the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and its members have been welcoming visitors. Its division the Convention and Visitors Bureau has been a key contributor in successfully attracting and servicing the group market.

You very well may have met a representative of the bureau’s staff at one of the 30-trade/consumer shows they attend every year. However, more than just promoting tourism for the Myrtle Beach area, servicing your business is a significant part of their responsibilities. Some of their regular functions include planning assistance, site visitations, and visual aids including photography and video, and promotional collateral.

One very special service the bureau provides is their Motorcoach Meet & Greet. Arriving groups are encouraged to stop by the Welcome Center at 1200 North Oak Street for a personal welcome and expression of thanks for visiting. Each guest receives a souvenir of the area and an on-coach greeting by a chamber representative. The service is available during regular business hours, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday. Please call ahead to 800-488-8998.

For additional information about the Myrtle Beach area go online at www.VisitMyrtleBeach.com or e-mail Sandy Haines at Sandy.Haines@VisitMyrtleBeach.com.

In the News -New Tour Bus Parking Spaces in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach creates parking spaces for tour buses

MYRTLE BEACH – Four spaces specifically designated for tour buses have been identified and marked on 10^th Avenue North between Kings Highway (U.S. Hwy 17 Business) and Chester Street, just one block off Ocean Boulevard. The spaces are available on a first come, first served basis and should aid drivers that often travel many blocks away from their passengers for find parking. With the opening of the new oceanfront boardwalk in June 2010, additional parking space was needed. Watch for upcoming issues of The Myrtle Beach Area Tour Planner eMagazine for additional boardwalk updates and announcements.

In the News -New Toronto/Myrtle Beach Air Service

Porter Airlines provides winter Myrtle Beach service

Only non-stop service from Canada

TORONTO - Golfers, groups, families and friends can get away to Myrtle Beach's world-class entertainment, famous golf courses and sandy beaches more easily than ever with Porter Airlines' new winter seasonal service.

Porter is offering twice-weekly roundtrips between Toronto City Centre Airport (TCCA) and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina on Thursdays and Sundays beginning February 28, continuing until May 30. One-way fares start at $179, plus taxes. The only non-stop service from Canada to Myrtle Beach saves passengers time by flying right to the beach. Connections are available in Toronto from Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City and Thunder Bay.

"Myrtle Beach is an excellent leisure destination for our passengers. It appeals to everyone from families to sports enthusiasts," said Robert Deluce, president and CEO of Porter Airlines. "It is a good match with our successful seasonal program in Mont Tremblant. We now provide top flight group options to suit all tastes."

For more information visit www.flyporter.com or call 888-619-8622.

Tour Options - Pier Fishing Fun!

When bringing a tour to the Myrtle Beach area, a very easy and fun filled activity is pier fishing. With 8 piers extending into the ocean from the Grand Strand beaches, there’s probably a pier close to where you’re staying. From Cherry Grove to Garden City they’re catching fish! Now, before you throw up your hands thinking that’s not for us, let’s break down a few obstacles.

“We do not know the first thing about saltwater fishing.” Every year hundreds of thousands visitors to the Myrtle Beach area include saltwater fishing in their vacation plans. For many it’s their first time. The pier masters and legions of local pier fishermen are more than willing to get you started. From baiting the hook to getting that monster catch off, you’ll have plenty of help.

“Bringing our fishing stuff with us is a real hassle.” Leave it at home. You do not want to use your own equipment anyway. You’ll need saltwater gear and every pier has rods and reels to rent, as well as bait available.

“We’re not from South Carolina, what about a fishing license?” It’s not needed when fishing from a private pier. It’s included in the cost of your fishing permit.

“We’ll have no place to keep the fish we catch.” Your optimism is justified. Area piers pride themselves on catching fish just about everyday. Catch and Release is encouraged. Although fish are caught year around, the best time of year is April through October.

The piers are open year around with the exception of the Cherry Grove Pier, 14^th Avenue Pier and the Second Avenue Pier, which close during winter months. Hours of operation vary by season and pier. Fishing permits and rod rentals range from $10 - $29 per day. Rod rentals usually require a refundable deposit of $15 - $50 depending on the pier you choose. Group rates are not available.

All piers are accessible by motorcoach, but we suggest dropping your passengers off on the street and having them walk a short distance to the entrance. Parking lots may present a problem for turn around during busy times of the year. There is daily public transportation servicing Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach, including the 14^th Avenue Pier, Second Avenue Pier and Springmaid Pier. Check with your front desk for times and stops.

Reservations for pier fishing are not required. However, regardless of the number of fisherman in your group, we suggest you call the pier in advance. Let the pier know how many are coming and there are beginners in the group. The number of rods available for rental on any given day may be limited.

Remember to add to the fun by announcing a friendly fishing rodeo. Prizes for most caught, largest single fish and of course “the I didn’t catch a thing” award. Just in case you forget to bring some trophies, the piers all have gift shops where you can find some fun prizes.

The best web site to get you started is www.funbeaches.com/piers.html. You’ll find direct links to all pier web sites, telephone numbers, hours of operation and rates.

All your clients need to bring is their cameras. After all, we don’t want to hear any fish stories do we?

An Introduction to the Myrtle Beach Tour Planner

The Tour Planner eMagazine

Unique travel options from the Myrtle Beach, SC area

Fun & Profitable Tour Options

Welcome to the inaugural issue of The Tour Planner eMagazine. Our sole purpose is to provide professional tour planners with creative ideas for increasing the fun and profitability of their Myrtle Beach area tours. If we’re presently not a destination of choice, we hope to give you some food for thought. Here’s what you can expect.

We’ll introduce you to the area’s Gullah culture and agricultural history. At one time over 25-percent of the world’s rice was grown in Georgetown County!

You’ll go pier fishing (we have twelve to choose from!) and it’s such an easy option to add. For the more adventuresome daily deep-sea charters leave from two coastal fishing communities in the area.

We’ll unravel the mystery of golf tours and share how easily they are packaged and marketed! Many of your clients already know us as the “Seaside Golf Capital of the World.”

Of course festivals and events that provide added value to any tour will certainly be covered. Hopefully, you’ve already made plans for the 48^th Annual Canadian-American Days Festival, March 13-21, 2010. Loaded with free entertainment and events, it’s an internationally recognized festival.

From kite flying and miniature golf to eco tourism and holiday happenings, no stone will be left unturned. What you see on your screen is what you will get. No click through to multiple pages with time consuming downloads. We understand that profitable tours begin with efficient research. Your time will not be wasted. We’ll keep our stories concise and insightful.

Just as important as a story’s content is its timeliness. We understand the tiered structure of your business and appreciate that a great option happening next week doesn’t really do you any good, today. We’ll plan and report our stories so you’ll have ample lead-time to develop and market your Myrtle Beach area tours.

Bi-weekly we’ll share tidbits that we would have told you, if only there were 5-minutes more at marketplace! We hope you’ll subscribe to our FREE eMagazine, enter us in your contact list and pass us along to colleagues.

In the News

Here’s where we’ll keep you up-to-date with “what’s new” and “what’s coming” to the Myrtle Beach area. More than a brick & mortar report, we’ll provide you with the group news that will help your planning. The Myrtle Beach area is a vibrant, exciting destination and we’ll keep you up-to-date.

Here’s an example of what you can expect. There’s a brand new food and wine festival coming to Myrtle Beach May 17-23, 2010. Coastal Uncorked promises to showcase the Myrtle Beach area restaurant community and provide lots of value for tour & travel. Special menus, cooking demonstrations, wine tasting, entertainment, and “Iron Chef” style competitions are all being planned. Just as soon as we have the details, we’ll send the news to you!

Supplier Spotlight

We really encourage you to get to know the sponsors of this new eMagazine. These are the suppliers that get it! They understand it’s necessary to introduce the destination before selling themselves. We’ll tell you much more about each of our sponsors in later issues. Visit their web sites or give them a call, today.

Our publisher and editor has been in the tour & travel industry over 20-years and is anxious to share his experiences with you. More than just flashy editorial, each piece will be written understanding the operators need to seamlessly roll an option into an itinerary. We’ll provide the sizzle to help sell an option along with the details needed for easy implementation.

We hope you’ll enjoy our writings!