I just attended a reception at US Ambassador to Canada, David Jacobsen’s, residence in Ottawa, celebrating a “Meet Syracuse” event.
There were oodles of reps from Syracuse, enticing Ottawa clients to come visit. And whom better to appeal to than the travel advisors sending Ottawa clients on holiday!
There were representatives from Anyela’s Vineyards, Cantina Laredo, CenterState CEO, Destiny USA, Dinosaur Barb-B-Que, Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Everson Museum of Art, Middle Ages Brewing Company, Pole Position Raceway, Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Skaneateles Chamber of Commerce, Syracuse Technology Garden, Wonderworks, and Woodbine Group.
Destiny USA is probably of most interest to Ottawa shoppers. It is a 2.4 million square foot tourist destination in Syracuse that includes a strong mix of luxury outlet tenants restaurants, and entertainment. New brands are continuing to open. Oxford Economics projects over 29 million visitors each year from USA and Canada, and it is expected to be the second most visited shopping center in the US, according to T&L magazine.
But the local hotels are also hoping to encourage Ottawans to visit. With Orlando getting 42 million hotel rooms a year, Syracuse is hoping to sneak a few their way. Syracuse is inviting Ottawans to either a stop in, maybe along the way to see the mouse (or even instead of visiting the mouse). Wonderworks, the Zoo, and the go carts are hoping to offer distraction.
The Woodbine Hospitality Group, which represents Hotel Skyler, Genesee Grande, and ParkView Hotel is also offering a staycation/ long weekend package for my clients. Rates start at $129/n which includes a $25 hotel food and beverage gift card, and a $25 shopper package with $25 Destiny USA gift card.
Let me know if you’d like to visit.
[email protected] 613-837-0699
