NORTH CAROLINA’S TRIANGLE

The other week we were approached by a colleague who asked: “Aside from Tobacco and Barbecue, what else is there in North Carolina?” The first reaction was surprise; didn’t they know that the Wright brother’s first flight happened in NC? Didn’t they know about the role of North Carolina in agriculture, mostly tobacco? The unfortunate reality is that North Carolina is really not too well known. We guess that North Carolina lacks a major city or major natural wonders to be recognized immediately by everyone.

But the truth is: North Carolina has it all: A superb coast and beaches with the Outer Banks; a major port in Wilmington; the large city of Charlotte with banking, NASCAR and all; the cities of Winston-Salem, Greensboro and High Point now a center of research and furniture production after shedding their role as tobacco growers and textile production; unspoiled nature in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Atlantic coast or the magnificent Blue Ridge Parkway going from North to South.

And then there is the “Triangle” of Durham, Chapel Hill and Raleigh. This area of North Carolina has attracted a large share of foreign manufacturing plants and research facilities. Tobacco, soy and corn (Maize) are still grown on farms in the area, but modern industries have a greater draw. The “Research Triangle Park” near Chapel Hill, the Silicon Valley of the East is one of the largest research facilities in the world. Supported by the facilities of the University of NC, Duke University and NC State University this park covers 7,000 acres (3,500ha) and is the workplace to 39,000 people in 150 organizations. Such a place attracted a lot of “techies” and a lot of “techies” are athletic. Consequently, there are also a lot of outdoor facilities available. Raleigh, the state capital and second largest city in the state, has at least 19 greenways, covering 54 miles, ready for biking and hiking. There are several lakes and rivers ready for canoeing and several state parks open for picnic and camping. We can help you secure bike or canoe rentals. Of all the other cultural facilities the Sarah P Duke Gardens at Duke University should be pointed out. 5 Million people visit yearly these gardens and enjoy the 2000 different plants on 35ha.

And then there is always good North Carolina food available. Barbecue inland and seafood on the coast are served in hearty portions. Especially the “Pulled Pork”, the state Barbecue should be tried at least once!

We hope to have made you hungry enough to convince your clients to make a detour through North Carolina when appropriate.

Southernly yours,

Beat Fischer

For more information please contact Beat Fischer at groups@visitamerica.com