RALEIGH, N.C. (Oct. 2, 2012) — With fall unfolding like magic, the North Carolina Division of Tourism is tapping the interactive power of social media to keep travelers connected to the landscape’s most vibrant foliage and the coast’s most bountiful fishing.
Followers of VisitNC.com on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram can post and view current foliage photos from lofty Blue Ridge Mountain overlooks and rolling Piedmont woodlands as well as shots of just-caught red drum, bluefish and spotted seatrout. As an added payoff, users get a chance to win tickets and other prizes.
Social media’s instant connections complement the wealth of information offered at www.VisitNC.com/fall. There, noted foliage experts Dr. Howard Neufeld and Dick Thomas report on ever-shifting color conditions, forecast change for coming weeks and suggest insider routes for taking in the vistas. Weekly accounts from Captain Gary Dubiel help coastal fishermen improve their catch. The website also links visitors to seasonal events, attractions and activities across the state.
Here’s a rundown of features and travel tools available through VisitNC.com and its social media counterparts:
· Facebook: Frequent postings and photos plus giveaways, such as VIP tickets to Autumn at Oz and autographed copies of “The Lucky One” by New Bern resident Nicholas Sparks. www.facebook.com/visitNC
· Twitter: Postings and photos from around the state (hashtag #NCfall) plus an every-other-Tuesday trivia contest with prizes. twitter.com/visitnc
· Instagram: Photos from the Division of Tourism and content from other users (hashtags #VisitNC and #NCfall) on Instagram or on the Web at www.oninstagram.com/visitnc.
· Pinterest: Fall board with pins from the Division and partners across the state and links to their Pinterest boards. pinterest.com/visitnc/north-carolina-fall
· VisitNC.com: Details about fall foliage and fishing, special offers and sweepstakes plus downloadable brochures and itineraries. Visitors can also subscribe to the Division’s monthly e-newsletter and deals, events and roundups. VisitNC.com
· 1-800-VISIT NC: Call with inquiries, requests for the Travel Guide and other needs.
North Carolina’s varied geography and climate creates a long, colorful season that extends through November. The Division of Tourism wants autumn lovers to enjoy every minute of it.