Page 75 - South Mississippi Living - July, 2019

hello
This special section is brought to you by:
Milton Segarra
WelcomeLetter
As residents of Coastal Mississippi, we know we’re in on one of the nation’s best-kept secrets. In mere minutes, we can experience distinct cultures, rich history, charming towns, 62 miles of white-sand shoreline, live oaks and an atmosphere that is equally relaxing and exciting. There is so much to see, do and experience here, and similar to our awe-inspiring sunsets, no two weekends in Coastal Mississippi
are alike. Each of our 12 coastal communities has something different to offer; from our harbor towns and beautiful, walkable downtown areas to world- renowned shows and casino headliner entertainment.
Coastal Mississippi, formerly Visit Mississippi Gulf Coast, is the organization charged with promoting South Mississippi as a tourism and convention destination worldwide. Our mission centers on attracting ever-increasing numbers of leisure, convention, sports and business visitors to the area. We are dedicated to maximizing the travel and tourism industry for South Mississippi, thus increasing the economic impact to our region and our great State. In 2018, Coastal Mississippi saw more than 13 million visitors, generating $2.12 billion in expenditures, representing one third of all visitor expenditures within the State of Mississippi.
Our organization recently experienced an extensive rebranding process, inviting regional stakeholders and industry experts to provide candid feedback. This research and dialogue informed our newly launched brand and campaign Coastal Mississippi: The Secret Coast. This new campaign speaks to travelers who can appreciate Coastal Mississippi as a hidden gem,
a welcome break from the same old vacation, a secret they can share as the type of traveler who always has the inside track.
We invite you to be a traveler in your own backyard. Explore our great outdoors and stunning scenery while
Milton Segarra, CDME CEO Visit Mississippi Gulf Coast
kayaking, boating, fishing, birding and hiking, and discover the true essence of the Coastal Mississippi life at our unique attractions and museums. Dine
at some of our wonderful eateries, and experience coastal cuisine, from quaint seafood spots to fine dining establishments. Coastal Mississippi is home to world-class gaming, and the area’s miles of stunning shoreline serves as the perfect backdrop to our championship golf courses.
For a complete list of events, attractions and experiences, visit our website: coastalmississippi.com. Another useful resource is the My Gulf Coast
app, which helps you navigate the area and locate attractions and restaurants with ease.
As we enter the peak travel season for our destination, we appreciate your
continued hospitality. Time
and time again, we receive
feedback that what makes Coastal Mississippi so unique are the people who call the region home.
FOR MORE REFLECTIONS OF THE GULF COAST >> www.smliving.net
July 2019 • SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living 75
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