Episodios

  • Live From IPW: Martha Sheridan on How Boston Balances Revolutionary History with Modern Innovation

    Live From IPW: Martha Sheridan on How Boston Balances Revolutionary History with Modern Innovation
    Jun 26 2025
    America's birthplace of the revolution is writing new chapters while honoring its historic legacy. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live from the conference floor, Martha Sheridan, president and CEO of Meet Boston, joins Afar editorial director Billie Cohen to discuss how the city balances its Revolutionary War heritage with contemporary attractions and diverse neighborhoods. The conversation covers Boston's ongoing America 250 celebrations, which began early with events like the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party in 2023 and will culminate in a spectacular Fourth of July 2026 celebration featuring the World Cup and tall ships. Martha also discusses emerging neighborhoods like Allston-Brighton with its New Balance development and the Boston Art Triennial running through October, which uses public art installations to guide visitors through over 20 neighborhoods. Addressing current challenges in international tourism, Martha emphasizes Boston's welcoming message under diverse leadership and the city's continued appeal for business travelers, evidenced by major conventions like Bio bringing 20,000 scientists from around the world. She concludes by highlighting Boston's unique characteristic: the ability to experience vastly different cultures and atmospheres within a 10-minute walk between neighborhoods. What You’ll Learn The city’s governor, lieutenant governor, and mayor are all women 2023 was the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party Boston is planning a massive 4th of July celebration for 2026 and will host several World Cup matches. This year is the very first Boston Triennial, through October 2025. Boston has 23.5 (yes, .5) diverse neighborhoods. Key Moments [05:07] The city’s governor, lieutenant governor, and mayor are all women, and Sheridan credits this trio with helping make Boston an open and welcoming city. [06:01] Boston has been celebrating since 2023, which was the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party. [9:02]: Allston–Brighton is one neighborhood that may be less known to tourists, and New Balance built a track there surrounded by a development with restaurants, shops, and activities. [10:37] Sheridan stresses that tourism can support community needs by creating jobs, attracting new businesses, and helps strengthen local businesses such as restaurants. Resources Read the transcript of this episode Learn more about Meet Boston Listen to Martha's podcast, Boston Found Find Meet Boston on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok Read Afar’s recent Boston coverage I 🇺🇸 America 250 Update: In 2026, Boston will host seven World Cup matches and has a blowout 4th of July celebration planned. Previous Episode: Julie Coker, President and CEO of NYC Tourism and Conventions, on how the city is unlike any other in the world. Complete Series: View From Afar Also in this IPW series: Hear from Angela Val, President and CEO of Visit Philadelphia, on how the City of Brotherly Love lives up to its name. Stay Connected Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week. Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content. Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor. Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights. Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week. This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.
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    23 m
  • Live From IPW: NYC's New Tourism Chief on the City's 400th Anniversary Plans and Borough-Wide Growth

    Live From IPW: NYC's New Tourism Chief on the City's 400th Anniversary Plans and Borough-Wide Growth
    Jun 26 2025
    New York City continues to set the global standard for urban tourism, and its newest tourism leader is ready to build on that legacy. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live from the conference floor, Julie Coker, president and CEO of New York City Tourism + Conventions, joins Afar editorial director Billie Cohen to discuss her vision for the Big Apple's tourism future. Julie, who started her role in December 2024, brings extensive experience from leading tourism organizations in Philadelphia and San Diego. The conversation covers New York's remarkable resilience and recovery speed compared to other major metropolitan areas, particularly following COVID-19. Julie also discusses the city's ambitious plans for upcoming major events, including hosting eight FIFA World Cup matches in 2026, celebrating the city's 400th anniversary in 2025, and participating in America's 250th anniversary celebrations with events like Sail Forth 250, featuring over 30 tall ships gathering in New York Harbor. Julie also addresses current challenges facing international tourism, including geopolitical tensions and visa wait times, while emphasizing her commitment to ensuring tourism benefits reach all five boroughs and underserved communities. What You’ll Learn Etihad Park, a dedicated soccer stadium, will open in Willets Point, Queens in 2027. How Coker and her team aim to spread the wealth of tourism across all five boroughs. The big plans for NYC's 400th birthday celebration and America 250. Key Moments: [06:28] Coker believes NYC bounced back from the pandemic more quickly than other cities because of “the diversity of the economy, the people, and the resources that we have.” [08:41] Diversity of offerings is key, and NYC continues to add new attractions, like Etihad soccer stadium, opening in Queens in 2027. [12:09]: NYC will celebrate its 400th birthday this year on September 7th with a huge, free event around Broadway. Resources Read the transcript of this episode Learn more about NYC Tourism + Conventions Find NYC Tourism + Conventions on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok Read Afar’s recent New York City coverage 🇺🇸 America 250 Update: NYC will host eight World Cup matches in 2026. Etihad soccer stadium is set to open in Willets Point, Queens in 2027. 📊 By the Numbers: International travelers are just 20 percent of NYC’s visitors but make up 50 percent of its visitor spending. Previous Episode: Tamara Pigott, Executive Director of Visit Fort Myers, on transforming southwest Florida into a world-class destination Up Next: Martha Sheridan, President and CEO of Meet Boston. Complete Series: View From Afar Also in this IPW series: Hear from Kristen Reynolds, President & CEO of Choose Chicago, on how the city celebrates diversity, inclusion, and the Pope (of course). Stay Connected Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week. Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content. Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor. Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights. Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week. This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.
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    21 m
  • Live From IPW: Tamara Pigott on Southwest Florida's Recovery and the Evolution of Fort Myers Tourism

    Live From IPW: Tamara Pigott on Southwest Florida's Recovery and the Evolution of Fort Myers Tourism
    Jun 26 2025
    Southwest Florida is proving that beach destinations can evolve beyond sun and sand while maintaining their natural magic. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, Tamara Pigott, executive director of Visit Fort Myers, joins Afar editorial director Billie Cohen to share how she's helped transform the region into a world-class travel destination over her 25 years with the organization, including 10 years in the top position. Tamara discusses how Fort Myers, Sanibel Island, and Captiva Island have become household names while balancing tourism growth with environmental conservation. The region stands out as the "seashell capital of America" and maintains nearly 70 percent of Sanibel Island as preserved land with strict building height restrictions. The conversation covers the ongoing recovery from Hurricane Ian, a Category 5 storm that hit in 2022, and how the tourism industry has rebounded with over 80 percent of accommodations now reopened destination-wide. Tamara also explores emerging trends like solo travel and how the region's vibrant downtown districts are creating urban experiences that complement the natural coastal attractions. What You'll Learn Sanibel Island is home to the Bailey-Matthews National Seashell Museum with interactive experiences for all ages Nearly 70 percent of Sanibel Island remains preserved land with strict development guidelines Fort Myers has developed beyond beaches with vibrant downtowns, breweries, entertainment districts, and cultural attractions The region attracts visitors with household incomes over $100,000 who are seeking "respite getaway without a passport." Key Moments [Beginning] Tamara explains how the Fort Myers region offers a "natural experience" with migratory birds, dolphins, and manatees beyond traditional beach tourism [Middle] Discussion of Hurricane Ian recovery efforts, with over 50 percent of island accommodations now reopened and destination-wide recovery at over 80 percent [Middle] Tamara shares advice for other DMOs facing natural disasters: build deep relationships with emergency management, mayors, and community leaders before crisis hits [End] Exploration of solo travel trends and how Fort Myers caters to travelers aged 45-55 seeking peaceful getaways Resources Read the transcript of the episode. Visit the Visit Fort Myers website and social media handles. Learn more about the Bailey-Matthews National Seashell Museum on Sanibel Island. Explore Fort Myers' downtown district with the Luminary Autograph hotel and entertainment options. Discover Bonita Springs' riverside downtown area with breweries and parks. Stay Connected Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week. Follow @AfarMedia on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠TikTok⁠ for behind-the-scenes IPW content. ⁠Sign up⁠ for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor. Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights. Explore our other podcasts, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week. This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.
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    21 m
  • Live From IPW: Maine Tourism Chief's 'Forged by Nature' Vision Connects Landscape to Everything Else

    Live From IPW: Maine Tourism Chief's 'Forged by Nature' Vision Connects Landscape to Everything Else
    Jun 26 2025
    Maine is proving that small state thinking can yield big tourism results while staying true to its roots. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, Maine Office of Tourism Director Carolann Ouellette joins Afar editorial director Billie Cohen to discuss her unique journey back to leading Maine tourism for a second time, having previously held the role from 2010 to 2016 before launching the state's groundbreaking Office of Outdoor Recreation. Drawing from her aviation industry background—her father was a Pan Am pilot and she worked as a flight attendant—Carolann brings a traveler's perspective to destination marketing. Her strategy focuses on connecting like-minded but disparate groups to create authentic experiences, from boutique hotels in historic properties to unique outdoor adventures. Under her "Forged by Nature" brand platform, Maine is positioning itself as a destination where landscape inspires everything from outdoor recreation to artisanal crafts and culinary experiences. What You’ll Learn Why Ouellette created Maine’s Office of Outdoor Recreation How tourism can really have an impact at a very local level in a small state like Maine. Maine now has its first professional soccer team, the Hearts of Pines For America 250, the state is creating the 250-entry Maine Atlas. Key Moments [06:17] The state has had a lot of investment in historic buildings like windmills and mansions being turned into hotels. [11:17] Maine’s Office of Outdoor Recreation works with high schools, community colleges, and universities to help students learn more about working in the outdoor recreation economy. [14:39]: The tourism office is focused on finding things that attract visitors that also have an impact at a very local level. [16:12]: For America 250, the state is putting together the Maine Atlas with 250 entries covering its recent history. Resources Read the transcript of this episode Learn more about the the Maine Office of Tourism and Visit Maine Find Visit Maine on Instagram and Facebook Read Afar’s recent Maine coverage Previous Episode: Anne Sayers, Wisconsin Secretary of Tourism. Up Next: Tamara Pigott, Executive Director of Visit Fort Myers. Complete Series: View From Afar Also in this IPW series: Hear from Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale, on ensuring Fort Lauderdale is welcoming to every type of traveler. Stay Connected Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week. Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content. Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor. Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights. Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week. This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.
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    27 m
  • Live From IPW: Wisconsin's Tourism Chief on Breaking Records—and Breaking Stereotypes

    Live From IPW: Wisconsin's Tourism Chief on Breaking Records—and Breaking Stereotypes
    Jun 26 2025
    Wisconsin is proving that the Midwest can surprise travelers while breaking tourism records. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, Wisconsin Secretary of Tourism Anne Sayers joins Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss how the state has achieved three consecutive record-breaking years of tourism growth under her leadership since December 2020, expanding from six media markets in 2019 to 14 today while transforming perceptions of the destination. A key part of Anne's strategy has been reframing Wisconsin as a four-season destination, showcasing winter activities like skiing, snowmobiling, and cozy cabin experiences to combat the perception that it's only a summer getaway. She emphasizes Wisconsin's unique blend of iconic American brands like Harley-Davidson, architectural treasures from Frank Lloyd Wright, and genuine Midwestern hospitality that creates unexpected discoveries for visitors. As Wisconsin rides momentum from hosting major events like the Ryder Cup and political conventions, Anne's vision is to establish the state as a must-visit domestic leisure destination where travelers can "discover the unexpected" throughout the entire state, from the Apostle Islands in the north to countless surprises in between. What You’ll Learn: Wisconsin is bursting with outdoor activities, including winter surfing and rockclimbing Wisconsin has a festival dedicated to when a piece of Sputnik fell in Manitowoc Wisconsin has 600 varieties of cheese. Wisconsin is the birthplace of Frank Lloyd Wright. Key Moments: [02:38] Sayers started her role in December 2020, and Wisconsin Tourism has now had its third record-breaking year in a row. [06:49] Wisconsin excels in celebrating winter with all kinds of outdoor fun, including skiing, snowmobiling, and walking on frozen lakes. [8:53]: Visitors can see Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and a school, place of worship, and conference center all designed by him. [11:13]: Wisconsin is home to the world’s largest refracting telescope. Resources Read the transcript of this episode Learn more about Travel Wisconsin Find Travel Wisconsin on Facebook and Instagram Read Afar’s recent Wisconsin coverage Previous Episode: Brad Dean, President & CEO of Explore St. Louis, on the city’s incredible momentum. Up Next: Carolann Ouellette, President of the Maine Office of Tourism. Complete Series: View From Afar Also in this IPW series: Hear from Kristen Reynolds, President & CEO of Choose Chicago, on how the city celebrates diversity, inclusion, and the Pope (of course). Stay Connected Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week. Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content. Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor. Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights. Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week. This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.
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    22 m
  • Live From IPW: Elliott Ferguson on D.C.'s Record-Breaking Year—and Separating Politics From Place

    Live From IPW: Elliott Ferguson on D.C.'s Record-Breaking Year—and Separating Politics From Place
    Jun 24 2025
    Washington D.C. is proving that America's capital can separate politics from place while breaking tourism records. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, ⁠Destination DC⁠ president and CEO Elliott Ferguson joins Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss how the city welcomed a record-breaking 27.2 million visitors in 2024, generating $2.3 billion in tax revenue while preparing for major events like America 250 and the NFL Draft. Ferguson, a seasoned tourism leader who's navigated everything from 9/11 to January 6th, explains D.C.'s unique challenge of marketing a destination that's both the seat of government and home to 700,000+ diverse residents. He reveals how the city's "There's Only One DC" campaign showcases its international character—with over 175 embassies and a thriving cultural scene—beyond the traditional monuments and museums experience. What You'll Learn Ferguson describes D.C.'s vibe as globally diverse, where residents embrace people from all backgrounds in a city with 175+ embassies. Prior to leading tourism efforts, Ferguson has been with Destination DC since 2001, becoming CEO in 2009. How to position D.C. as more than just suits and politics—showcasing neighborhoods, architecture, and local culture. Where visitors can experience the "real D.C." beyond federal buildings, including festivals, restaurants, and community celebrations. Key Moments [08:45] Ferguson jokes about not wearing a suit on stage to counter the stereotype that everyone in D.C. talks politics and wears formal attire. [12:30] Asked about D.C.'s appeal, Ferguson notes that families might initially choose Disney World, but D.C. visitors are "wowed" by free, interactive museum experiences. [18:15] A big challenge is separating the 535 members of Congress from the 700,000+ residents who call D.C. home and embrace diversity. [24:20] Ferguson emphasizes that despite political climate changes, D.C. hasn't "taken our foot off" DEI efforts or run from the acronym. Resources ⁠ Read the transcript of this episode⁠ .⁠ Learn more about Destination DC⁠ . Find Destination DC on ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, and ⁠YouTube⁠ . Read Afar's Washington D.C. coverage⁠. Previous Episode: ⁠Walt Leger of New Orleans & Co on recovering from crises and how his city is "built to host." Up Next: Brad Dean, president and CEO of Explore St. Louis Complete Series: ⁠View From Afar⁠ Stay Connected Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week. Follow @AfarMedia on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠TikTok⁠ for behind-the-scenes IPW content. ⁠Sign up⁠ for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor. Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights. Explore our other podcasts, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week. This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media's podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.
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    21 m
  • Live From IPW: Brad Dean on Why St. Louis Is Ready for a Tourism Renaissance

    Live From IPW: Brad Dean on Why St. Louis Is Ready for a Tourism Renaissance
    Jun 24 2025
    St. Louis is proving that America's heartland is ready for a renaissance, blending iconic history with entrepreneurial energy. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, ⁠Explore St. Louis⁠ president and CEO Brad Dean joins Afar editorial director Billie Cohen to discuss how the Gateway City is reimagining itself as a destination for urban exploration while celebrating major milestones like Route 66's centennial and America's 250th anniversary. Dean, who officially started his role in February 2025, chose St. Louis over offers from New York, Chicago, and San Francisco because of the city's incredible momentum—including major downtown redevelopment, a newly approved entertainment district, and massive investments in the airport and convention center. The conversation reveals the surprising gap between visitor and local perceptions of St. Louis, with guests consistently ranking the dining, history, art, and culture as extraordinary. Dean also highlights St. Louis's remarkable commitment to accessibility—residents voted to tax themselves so major attractions like the world-class zoo and art and history museums remain free to visitors. What You'll Learn Dean describes St. Louis as the "original gathering place" where rivers converged and westward expansion began, now evolving into a playground for urban exploration. Prior to leading Explore St. Louis, Dean helped transform Myrtle Beach and rebuild Puerto Rico's tourism after Hurricane Maria. How St. Louis residents voted to tax themselves to make major attractions free, demonstrating the community's commitment to hospitality. Where visitors can experience authentic St. Louis beyond downtown, including unique neighborhoods with rich history and vibrant culture. Key Moments [03:15] Dean reveals that St. Louis was the first place he vacationed as a seven-year-old from rural Illinois, planting the travel seed that shaped his career. [08:45] Asked about St. Louis pizza, Dean explains how the thin-crust style originated from local farms and today Imo's makes every pizza downtown near the convention center. [15:30] Dean discusses how the gap between visitor and local perceptions is "as big as I've ever seen," with visitors consistently surprised by the quality of dining and culture. [22:40] The recently reopened old courthouse showcases consequential American history, including Dred and Harriet Scott cases and Virginia Minor's fight for women's voting rights. Resources ⁠Read the transcript of this episode. ⁠ ⁠Learn more about Explore St. Louis⁠. Find Explore St. Louis on ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, and ⁠YouTube⁠. ⁠Read Afar's St. Louis coverage⁠. Previous Episode: ⁠Elliott Ferguson of Destination DC on separating politics from place⁠. Up Next: Anne Sayers, Wisconsin's secretary of tourism Complete Series: ⁠View From Afar⁠ Stay Connected Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week. Follow @AfarMedia on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠TikTok⁠ for behind-the-scenes IPW content. ⁠Sign up⁠ for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor. Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights. Explore our other podcasts, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week. This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media's podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.
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    21 m
  • Live From IPW: New Orleans & Company CEO Walt Leger Reveals What Makes His City "Built to Host"

    Live From IPW: New Orleans & Company CEO Walt Leger Reveals What Makes His City "Built to Host"
    Jun 23 2025
    New Orleans is proving its resilience and redefining what it means to be "built to host" major events. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, New Orleans & Company president and CEO Walt Leger joins Afar editorial director Billie Cohen to discuss how the city bounced back from tragedy to deliver an unprecedented run of iconic events—Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, Super Bowl LIX, and Mardi Gras. Leger, a former Louisiana state legislator turned tourism leader, explains New Orleans' unique "vibe," a place where music emerges from every corner. He reveals how the city's two-mile triangle connecting the French Quarter, convention center, and Superdome creates a campus-like experience with 26,000 hotel rooms, but emphasizes that infrastructure alone doesn't make a destination—it's the people who truly make New Orleans "built to host." The conversation addresses the New Year's Day terrorist attack on Bourbon Street and how the city responded with defiance rather than fear, doubling down on joy in a distinctly American fashion. Leger shares current safety data showing violent crime down 70 percent and explains how the community rallied to successfully host major events just days after the tragedy, while also discussing challenges like balancing 385,000 residents with 19 million annual visitors. What You’ll Learn Leger describes the vibe of New Orleans as music everywhere, all the time. Prior to heading the tourism board, Leger was a lawyer and a state legislator. How to balance making New Orleans attractive for tourists while still supporting residents and local communities. Where you can find green space in New Orleans and avoid the French Quarter’s crowds. Key Moments [04:02] In a two mile triangle, New Orleans has the French Quarter, the Superdome, and the convention center, plus 26,000 hotel rooms. [06:26] Asked what is the vibe of New Orleans, Leger says “long before people were talking about work-life balance, we were living it.” [11:45]: A big challenge right now is short-term rentals, which can cause locals to see visitors in a less positive light. [16:38]: New Orleans wants to ensure that one single act of terror doesn’t deter people from enjoying Bourbon Street, which remains very safe. Resources Read the transcript of this episode Learn more about New Orleans & Company Find New Orleans & Company on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube Read Afar’s New Orleans coverage Previous Episode: Caroline Beteta of Visit California on sustainable tourism. Up Next: President & CEO of Visit Buffalo Niagara. Complete Series: View From Afar Also in this IPW series: Hear from Helen Hill, President and CEO of Explore Charleston, about how the city showcases all of its history, good and bad. Stay Connected Subscribe to View From Afar to catch all 20 IPW episodes this week. Follow @AfarMedia on Instagram and TikTok for behind-the-scenes IPW content. Sign up for our travel industry newsletter, Afar Advisor. Rate and review the show to help other travel professionals discover these insights. Explore our other podcasts, Travel Tales, where we share first-person narratives of trips that have changed us, and ⁠⁠Unpacked⁠⁠, which unpacks a tricky topic in travel each week. This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.
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    30 m