Spring breakers welcomed back to Gulf Coast with great deals
The month of March marks the return of Spring Break to Alabama’s coast. The roads leading to the beaches are packed with cars this time of year, as families, college students, and tourists roll in for a relaxing week of fun, sun, and relaxation.
Many local business owners worried that tourists would make plans for other destinations this year; however, Spring Break 2011 may be an early indicator of the resilienceof the Gulf Coast.
Two weeks into the season, optimism is abounding from local restaurant owners and vacation rental companies. Missy Zak, Vice-President of Marketing for Meyer Real Estate, is very excited to see business returning and the possibility of a resurgent tourism season.
“This past Saturday was the biggest check-in that we’ve had in about a year,” she said. “It was great to see the families coming in. When you are looking at Spring Break this year compared to last year, this weekend was even trending ahead of where we were pre-oil spill.”
If Spring Break serves as a predictor for summer business, Island Thyme Grill is excited about the possibilities. Matt Shipp’s newly opened Shipp’s Island Thyme Grill restaurant has been busy since the doors opened. “Business is amazing right now,” Shipp said. “Spring break season has really picked up and been successful. We were all concerned after last year’s events if they were going to return, and they seemed to have returned in good numbers.”
Oiled beaches and wildlife - that’s a perception many local business owners hope to change by offering special discounts to lure potential visitors back to Alabama’s Coast.
Jody Jonca, owner of the West Beach Grill, is offering one-time passes to customers during football and basketball seasons. A $10 pass gives patrons discounts on their award-winning chicken wings, famous sliders and beverages.
“I try to lock them in to coming here to watch the games, instead of going to different locations,” said Jonca.
Live Bait Restaurant owner, Gary Nichols, believes a friendly atmosphere and a hearty meal generates steady business.
“Our Friday Prime Rib lunch is probably the most successful anywhere on the beach. $8.95 prime rib, baked potato, salad, just a heck of a meal for the price,” he said. “It’s an interesting place for a family to come, enjoy some music and enjoy the atmosphere here.”
The beaches are beautiful, the seafood is fresh, and local attractions are open for business. That’s a message Emily Eiland Gonzalez, Marketing Director with Kaiser Realty, hopes resonates with tourists across the country.
“There’s no opportunity that could be greater than coming to the Alabama Gulf Coast. Our beaches are sugar-white, our water is blue-green, our accommodations are home away from home,” said Gonzalez. “You can’t beat it. You can go out and have amazing seafood! You can just experience the warm family feel of being in a true southern town that welcomes you in.”
Click here to view a video of these interviews.
Click here to view a 'Spring Day in Orange Beach, Alabama' slideshow, or view below.
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For further information:
BP Gulf of Mexico restoration: www.bp.com/gulfofmexico
Gulf Coast Restoration Orgnization, Alabama: (251) 201 1900
