A total of five journalists represented the Benelux, during this years’ edition of Travel South USA Global Week. This event is specifically designed for International Media to meet with Southern Travel Suppliers to conduct business and build relationships. In total almost 50 journalists attended the Media Marketplace, which took place in Louisville, Kentucky – the land of bourbon and horses.
Benelux delegation
Harmke Kraak – Freelance journalist
Corno van den Berg – Droomplekken.nl
Hans Avontuur – WideOyster
Iris van den Broek – Wander-Lust
Peter van Oyen – De Zondag
Host city Louisville
Following a 5-day pre-FAM through one of the Travel South states, all journalists and local suppliers arrived to Louisville, where they stayed at the Omni Hotel. Conveniently located right in the downtown area and only a short walk to some of the cities major attractions, e.g. The Slugger Museum, the Muhammad Ali Center and the vibrant NuLu area. The various city tours introduced everyone to the culture and history of Louisville.
During the Media Marketplace all journalists participated in 20+ meetings with local suppliers, to learn about all that the region has to offer.
This years’ hosts Louisville Tourism and Kentucky Tourism made sure that Global Week was off to a great start with a Great Gatsby themed openingevent at the Seelbach Hotel. The Copper & Kings brewery was the location of the closing party. The whole delegation looks back on a very effective and inspirational event.
Travel South USA Ambassador
Harmke Kraak may now call herself a multi-award winning journalist, after receiving the Travel South USA Ambassador Award for Outstanding Travel Writer. A special award to acknowledge the exceptional editorial coverage and content contributions that support driving international visitors and spending to the South. Harmke Kraak has published multiple online and print articles showcasing the various states she has visited in the region.
Special announcement
Michelin and Travel South USA revealed that MICHELIN Guide is releasing their newest guide ‘American South’, which will include six of the Travel South USA states: Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee
► Read the full article about the MICHELIN Guide announcement
Global Week 2026
During the luncheon it was announced that Mobile, Alabama will be the destination for Travel South USA Global Week 2026. Registrations have not yet opened, however, if you are interested, please reach out to us at [email protected].
