BY NAMITA DOGRA SUDAN
Atlanta, GA, October 11, 2023: In a fun-filled luncheon event that felt more like a family gathering than a formal affair, a team from Pennsylvania came to Georgia to tell us about their beloved Keystone State. The delegation was hosted by Tours Limited, in collaboration with the Georgia Indo-American Chamber of Commerce, and the Pennsylvania Tourism Office on September 28 at Chef Dinesh Cafe, drawing attendees from various backgrounds and interests.
Pennsylvania, often referred to as the Keystone State, boasts a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that entices travelers from far and wide. Whether you’re a history buff, a chocolate lover, a family seeking theme park adventures, or a party enthusiast, Pennsylvania offers something for everyone.
At the luncheon event, Pabs Raghava, CEO of Tours Limited, extended a warm welcome to the Pennsylvania Delegation, members of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, and the Georgia Indo-American Chamber of Commerce. The gathering provided a platform for the Pennsylvania Delegation to promote Pennsylvania as a destination for Indian Americans in Georgia and attract Indian tourists through their connections here.
Audrey Bialas, Director of Tourism for Visit Hershey & Harrisburg, encouraged attendees to explore Hershey’s theme park and underscored the delegation’s goal of drawing Indian and Georgian visitors to the state.
Greg Edevane, Director of Global Development at Chester County’s Brandywine Valley, expressed optimism about Pennsylvania becoming a top destination for Indian visitors by 2025. He highlighted the state’s unique offerings, including being America’s Garden Capital and the Mushroom Capital of the World.
Melissa McClure, Global Tourism Sales Manager at the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau, emphasized the city’s historical significance as the birthplace of America and highlighted attractions like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and its status as the International Symbol of Freedom.
Rasheeda Martin, Director of Sales at Explore York/Sport York, proudly mentioned York County’s reputation as the snack food capital of the United States, home to brands like Snyder’s chips, Dutch chips, and Stoffers cookies.
Paul Oh, the Gwinnett Chamber’s Director of Public Policy and Community Affairs, expressed gratitude for the delegation’s efforts in promoting tourism in Gwinnett County and Georgia as a whole.
Grace Multani, President of the Georgia Indo-American Chamber of Commerce, emphasized its commitment to providing resources and networking opportunities for business owners, both in Atlanta and across Georgia.
Speaking to NRI Pulse, S. K. Raj, Chairman of the Georgia Indo-American Chamber of Commerce, praised the collaboration between the two chambers and the importance of promoting tourism between Pennsylvania and Georgia.
The event concluded with a lucky draw, with Mustafa Ajmeri winning the first prize– a large Hershey’s Kisses chocolate, a special gift brought by the Pennsylvania Delegation. Veena Rao, Editor-in-Chief of NRI Pulse, took home a coffee table book on Pennsylvania as second prize. The attendees bid farewell with smiles and newfound connections, solidifying the bonds of cultural exchange and tourism promotion between Pennsylvania and Georgia.
