National Geographic to help Memphis map "geotourism" spots

Big River Strategic Initiative, along with other organizations including the National Park Service and The Mississippi River Parkway Commission, has partnered with National Geographic to launch the Mississippi River National Geographic Geotourism Project. Intended to highlight and preserve the Memphis area's unique tourist assets, the project will label certain attractions as "geotorist" sites.

Organizations and businesses interested in participating in the project, and possibly pursue a designation as a National Geographic geotourist location, can attend a free informational session next week in Downtown Memphis, Feb. 23 and 24. Each business that participates will be given a National Geographic sanctioned decal for their organization or recreational facility and have the ability to upload business information, photos, videos, and other information on the website to encourage and enhance visitation.

Designed to develop and promote tourism venues that allow visitors to experience the heritage and local culture of a destination, geotourism is anything that reflects and preserves the aspects that are unique to a destination. Terry Eastin of the Big River Strategic Initiative defines geotourism as "tourism that sustains or enhances the geographic character of a place, its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of its residents.

"Rather than paving over the past with shiny new high rises and things you can find in any city in America, geotourism helps preserve and promote the very things that make a place unique," says Eastin.

A study conducted in Montana in 2011 determined that a "geotourist" is more likely to stay in a destination longer and spend double the money of a typical "regional" tourist on a vacation. 

National Geographic is the world's number one tourism brand, and having a small business touted as a National Geographic sanctioned destination provides considerable opportunities to attract national and international tourists. "The most important part is that it doesn't cost the local business, museum, historic district, eatery, etc. one dime to participate. That's why I have been actively pursuing funding to pay for the program in its entirety," explains Eastin of bringing the opportunity to Memphis.
 
Regina Bearden of the Memphis Convention and Visitors Bureau sees the project as an excellent opportunity for the city. "We believe this project will support many of the efforts already being embraced by the tourism industry here locally. It should also bring new audiences and begin to assist us as we add unique assets that are available only in Memphis. The recognition that we will gain through a trusted brand and partnership with National Geographic should offer immediate recognition, strong support, and awareness to ultimately bring new visitors to Memphis and our region."

Local businesses and organizations who are interested in a National Geographic geotourism designation are welcome to attend the conference or contact Terry Eastin for more information.