Picture this: over one thousand tourism pros gathered in one room, sharing secrets and swapping stories and being inspired by inspiring keynote speakers. That was the scene at the U.S. Travel Association's ESTO conference. Betsy and I jumped headfirst into the action, and we're bringing back a treasure trove of ideas to elevate Lima's tourism game.
What is ESTO?
So, what exactly is ESTO? Think of it as a turbocharged conference for tourism pros. ESTO, or the Educational Seminar for Tourism Organizations, is the industry's go-to event for soaking up fresh ideas and connecting with like-minded folks. For four packed days, destination marketers from across the country dive deep into the latest trends, share their secrets to success, and come out recharged and ready to rock the tourism world.
"Turn disaster into delight" - Sekou Andrews
This mantra resonated deeply as I reflected on Lima’s journey. Every community has its challenges, and Lima is no exception. Yet, amidst the adversity, a remarkable transformation is underway.
Downtown Lima, once a shadow of its potential, is now a vibrant hub of activity. It's a story of belief, perseverance, and community spirit. Meeting people at ESTO who had once held outdated perceptions of Lima and witnessing their astonishment at our progress was incredibly rewarding. It’s a testament to the power of human determination and the potential that lies within every community.
"We are in the 'good news' business." - Fred Dixon, President & CEO of Brand USA
Fred’s declaration couldn’t be truer. In a world saturated with negativity, our role is to shine a spotlight on the incredible stories and experiences Allen County has to offer. From the serene beauty of our parks to the vibrant arts scene, we're fortunate to have a wealth of assets that provide an escape from the daily grind. Our mission is simple: to share these gems with the world and invite people to discover the magic of our community.
"Dare to be different." - Sally Hogshead
This is our mantra. Allen County might not boast towering mountains or pristine beaches, but we have something far more captivating: authenticity. From the quirky charm of the “Things People Swallowed” exhibit at the Allen County Museum to the iconic Kewpee Doll, our unique attractions are the heart and soul of our community. And let's not forget the warm hospitality that greets every visitor. It's these unexpected treasures, combined with our genuine welcome, that transform Allen County into a must-visit destination.
So What’s Next?
The ESTO conference was a game-changer. It ignited a spark within me to approach Lima's marketing with fresh eyes and bold ideas. My time as the Tourism Marketing Manager at Visit Greater Lima has been a whirlwind, but ESTO has equipped me to take our community to new heights in 2025 and beyond. This journey isn’t a solo mission; it requires a united front. I’ve shared my excitement with the team, and now it’s time to rally our community. Let’s work together to invite former residents back home, introduce Lima to those who’ve never experienced its charm, and share the stories that make our city unique.
Your perspective matters. Share your Greater Lima story with us – let's build something extraordinary together. After all, we are all tour guides of our hometown.
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