Okaloosa County BOCC — February 27, 2014 — VI.a. 2013 Awards — reading text

37 38 39  40 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Larry Lovell Peter Mayer Public Relations PR Management Supervisor lovelll@peteramayer.com TripAdvisor names Destin to national top 10 list Florida Panhandle beach city named third for “Destinations on the Rise in the U.S.” DESTIN, Fla. (January 6, 2014) – Leading travel website TripAdvisor named Destin, Fla., to its 2013 annual top 10 list of “Destinations on the Rise in the U.S.,” which ranks travel hotspots that received the greatest increase in positive traveler feedback and traveler interest from the company’s customers. “TripAdvisor is the dominant source of travel information on the Internet,” said Ed Schroeder, director of the Emerald Coast Tourist Development Department. “To have TripAdvisor’s customers think so highly of Destin and the Emerald Coast is fantastic. We agree Destin is the destination of choice for travelers visiting our special vacation spot.” Destin ranked third in the country after Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, and Anchorage, Alaska, and is the only destination in the Southeastern U.S. to be recognized by TripAdvisor in the annual poll. “For travelers looking for inspiration for their 2014 travel planning, TripAdvisor travelers have helped us put a spotlight on some amazing destinations that caught the eye of travelers this past year,” said Barbara Messing, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor. “Between large cities gathering steam and off-the-beaten-path spots surfaced by our community, travelers can discover wonderful accommodations, attractions and restaurants in all of these award-winning destinations.” And with spectacular sugar-white sand beaches, emerald-green Gulf waters and an abundance of activities, Destin’s Schroeder said there’s something for nearly every traveler. “Visitors have so many options in Destin, from fishing and water sports to golf and numerous other family- friendly activities,” Schroeder said. “Whether it’s a relaxing day at our beaches, shopping in our great local businesses or dining on fresh Gulf seafood at great local restaurants, a Destin vacation is one that will create lasting memories and have you wanting to return again and again. We encourage travelers to come experience what TripAdvisor users have discovered.” For more information on visiting the Emerald Coast beaches of Destin, Ft. Walton Beach, and Okaloosa Island throughout the year, visit, www.EmeraldCoastFL.com or call 1-800-322-3319. ### 41 42  43 Destin recognized on the list of 2014 Best Gulf Beaches!