Tourism numbers are in for 2019, and the news is good. The first week in May is National Travel and Tourism Week. This year’s theme in the midst of COVID was “The Spirit of Travel.” Although the pandemic has thrown a giant wrench into things, it certainly hasn’t squelched the spirit of travel. We’re hopeful that as restrictions ease, people will venture to places that bring them joy, like the beach.
Tourism numbers from 2019 were stellar.
For the seventh consecutive year, tourism numbers set a record. Tourism netted $24 billion in the state of South Carolina. In Charleston, the tourism numbers were also record-breaking, with $9.67 billion worth of economic impact.
The beach is open!
As I covered in that last blog, the Isle of Palms is officially back open for business. The security checkpoint is gone. Everyone is welcome on the island. And yes - the beach is open. Most beach restrictions are gone, including the “Keep it Moving” rule. You are welcome to sit on a towel and chair and just soak up the sun and listen to the waves. The only thing they ask is that you refrain from clustering in groups of more than three - unless members of the same family - and that you maintain 6’ social distancing from others. As of this week, short term vacation rentals are open once again as well. We take extra care to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness in all of our luxury beach homes. So give us a call at EP, ASAP. We’ll help you book the perfect one from our portfolio of Isle of Palms luxury rentals, for a safe and relaxing getaway.
Bridge Run News
Just a few moments ago, the mayors of Charleston and Mount Pleasant made a big announcement about the 2020 Bridge Run. They have made the difficult decision to cancel the event. Mayors Tecklenburg and Haynie released this joint statement: “Given the current circumstances related to COVID-19, we feel that it is time to cancel this year’s Cooper River Bridge Run. These are truly unprecedented times and, as the situation is constantly evolving, we believe that this decision is in the best interest of all our citizens and visitors.” As I covered in this blog, they had initially rescheduled the Bridge Run for August 1st. They also had options like participating “virtually” or transferring your registration spot to someone else. Well, they’ve decided to scrap it all together due to COVID-19. Bridge Run organizers had this to say: “Based on the decision of our city leadership, local health experts, and community leaders, it has been determined the race must be canceled for this year. We are committed to providing a world-class 10K foot race and we are looking forward to celebrating its return on March 27, 2021.” Read more about it from Live 5 News. You can also check the official Bridge Run website for details. All best, Lowcountry Lisa your Isle of Palms vacation blogger