Black Meetings and Tourism

SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY AT ITS BEST BY NORMAN MAYERS True Southern hospitality is alive in Savannah. Hip and historic, robust and refined, Savannah is where you'll find amazing architecture, spooky cemeter- ies and rich history — along with global sophistication, funky nightlife and fabu- lous food. It's where history resonates into the present day, and where memo- ries are still being made. The city is known for its relaxed pace as well as its beautiful cobblestone streets, gorgeous homes, and picturesque squares. Savannah is a truly walkable city, one that you will enjoy discovering over and over again. Savannah's Meeting District is locat- ed in the heart of downtown Historic Savannah. Among the 17 hotels in Savannah's Meeting District there are 3,300 guest rooms. Savannah's Meeting District is brimming with boutiques, gal- leries and specialty shops that offer an endless assortment of antiques, artwork, apparel and gifts. Broughton Street, Bull Street, City Market and River Street are but a few must-see areas. Free transportation is provided in the Meeting District; CAT Shuttle moves travelers through the streets of the dis- trict and Belles Ferry moves travelers along the river. The Savannah International Trade & Convention Center, like the proud and elegant city it represents, blends the best of the old South with the new to offer an impeccably perfect, 330,000-sq. ft. state-of-the-art venue for your next convention, meeting or special event. This gleaming waterfront complex fea- tures 100,000 sq. ft. of divisible exhibit space, 50,000 sq. ft. of prime meeting space, including 13 meeting rooms, four executive board rooms, a 25,000-sq. ft. Grand Ballroom, and a high-tech audi- torium. In the heart of the Historic District, the Savannah Civic Center features 25,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space, a 2,500- seat auditorium, a first class audio sys- tem and drive-in hall access. The Savannah Civic Center is responsible for providing a wide spectrum of enter- tainment and cultural events while also hosting conventions, exhibit shows and social events. The Martin Luther King Arena has seating arrangements rang- ing from 3,500 to 9,600 while the Johnny Mercer Theatre seats 2,506, boasting one of the largest prosceniums in the Southeast. The Civic Center Grand Ballroom and East and West Promenades are able to host regional parties, wedding receptions, reunions and other gatherings. "Green" is the new buzzword these days and the city of Savannah definitely supports the movement towards envi- ronmentalism. Savannah takes "green meetings" seriously and is committed to reducing the environmental impact of meetings held in Savannah. Savannah's 21 park-like, tree-lined squares are ideal for receptions, gatherings and meetings of all types and sizes that are looking for some environmentally friendly fun. There are plenty of hotels to choose from in the Savannah area that can accommodate your group or meeting. The Doubletree Hotel Historic Savannah is a 150-room full service lux- ury hotel located steps away from the bustling City Market and a short stroll from the eclectic shops and eateries of River Street. This hospitable hotel is perfectly situated for exploring the art, architecture, squares, and gardens of charming Savannah, and is easily acces- sible from Savannah / Hilton Head International Airport. The 154-room Hampton Inn & Suites is also located in the heart of the Historic Meeting District. Decorated in Old Savannah Brick and gas lit lamps, Savannah's Newest Hampton Inn & Suites encom- passes Old World Charm with the sophisticated amenities of today. The Hilton Savannah Desoto hotel with its 246 rooms is situated just 20 minutes from the Savannah International Airport and is located conveniently near the Intercoastal Marina. Air travel into the city is via Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. Savannah is also a major stop on Amtrak between New York City and Miami. Black Meetings & Tourism February/March 2009: www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 120 AREA GUIDES SAVANNAH S TAT S HOTEL ROOMS DoubleTree 150 Hampton Inn & Suites 154 Hilton Savannah Desoto Hotel 246 Hyatt Regency Savannah 351 Savannah Marriott Riverfront 383 Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa 403 EXHIBITION FACILITIES Savannah InternatIonal trade & ConventIon Center total exhibit space 100,000 sq. ft. largest ballroom 25,000 sq. ft. meeting rooms 13 WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Savannah CVB - (877) SAVANNAH www.savannahvisit.com Savannah Photo Credit: Savannha CVB

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