Conference Draws 300+ Travel, Adventure Pros to WNC, Expected to Have $500k Economic Boost

Asheville Hosts AdventureELEVATE North America

Wednesday, June 12 marked Day 2 of a travel conference that’s being held in Asheville, North Carolina. AdventureELEVATE North America is a three-day event drawing media, tour operations, and thought leaders in the adventure travel community to different destinations. Last year, Explore Asheville won the bid to host the 2024 conference.

Significant Economic Impact Predicted

Asheville is the first city in the Southeastern U.S. to host the event, now in its eighth year. The conference has brought hundreds of travel leaders to the area to explore all that Western North Carolina has to offer. Dodie Stephens, with Explore Asheville, stated, “This is a group of over 300 travel, trade, and adventure professionals from around the world. They are focused on sustainable and responsible tourism.”

Boost for Local Businesses

The event is expected to generate nearly $500,000, providing a much-needed economic boost to local businesses. This influx of visitors not only highlights the beauty of the region but also contributes significantly to the local economy.

Focus on Sustainability

One of the key themes of the conference is sustainability. Travel and adventure professionals are exploring ways to promote responsible tourism practices and minimize the environmental impact of their operations. Discussions and workshops at the event are centered around creating a more sustainable future for the travel industry.

Community Engagement and Innovation

AdventureELEVATE North America serves as a platform for industry players to network, share ideas, and collaborate on innovative approaches to adventure travel. The conference aims to foster a sense of community among professionals in the travel sector and inspire new ideas and initiatives.

Conclusion

As the conference continues in Asheville, it is not only bringing together travel and adventure professionals from across the globe but also spotlighting the region’s natural beauty and diverse offerings. The expected economic impact of $500,000 will provide a significant boost to local businesses and showcase the importance of sustainable tourism practices in the travel industry.