Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/57242
there to meet you." I for one am thankful we have heritage tourism to capture the past and catapult us ahead. Research has consistently shown African-American's spend more on heritage tourism than any single group, but the country as a whole has experienced a ren- aissance in recent years. People from all walks of life are seeking cross-cultural her- itage tourism experiences. Even interna- tional travelers to our shores want in. As we start to celebrate, commemorate or commiserate on the anniversaries before us, below are several destinations poised to cash in on the opportunities that lie ahead. COLUMBIA, SC The African-American History Monument is the first of its kind tribute to African-Americans that's actually located on state grounds anywhere in the U.S. Sculptor Ed Dwight modeled the monu- ment after an African village built in the round. Amap of the continentmounted in granite shows the original homeland of enslaved Africans. The monument picks up the story of Africans fromthe Middle Passage to arrival Couple viewing Ed Dwight monument of an African village, Columbia History Museum in nearby Charleston and follows the histo- ry, hardship and achievement of African slaves and their descendants – from arrival on these distant lands to plantation life through the Civil War to Jim Crow, the Civil Rights Movement and the evolution to present day America. An estimated 40 percent of all people of African descent can trace their lineage back to the port of Charleston making this museum unique on the American landscape. A trip to theMann-Simons Site is a look back at the plight of Africans. Many believe if you were a slave in the South you were destined to remain a slave for life. While that was certainly true for most, some managed to live at least a portion of their lives in freedom. Historians believe the Mann-Simons Cottage was probably built as a one-room house around 1825 and evolved over the years to accommodate changing family Relax. You'll fit right in... From large national conventions to small regionalmeetings, we've got you covered. Just one call to our knowledgeable staff will provide you with a diverse selection of facilities and accommodations to choose from, and will ensure you find the perfect fit.We make it easy with an in-town airport, a downtownwaterfront convention center, and a sparkling variety of hotels, dining, entertainment, and attractions. So relax, and host your nextmeeting in Tampa Bay. You'll feel good knowing you've selected the perfect destination! Convention ProudHost ofthe2012 Republican National For more information about booking your next convention, contact Sherri Brown: (813) 342-4062 or email SBrown@VisitTampaBay.com Black Meetings & Tourism January/February 2012: www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 33 the perfect fit. Photo Credit: Columbia CVB