STS Beginnings
Atlanta, GA

On September 14, 1983, a small group of travel & tourism industry leaders from the Southeast gathered to organize a new, non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion and development of tourism throughout the region. Those charter members shared a mutual belief that regional promotion through partnership between states would create a powerful marketing alliance unparalleled throughout our country. Joining to make this dream a reality, they created the Southeast Tourism Society (STS).

Nineteen years later, their vision has been validated as the Southeast Tourism Society has established itself as a leader among other travel organizations nationwide. STS members recognize the vast number of attractions, sporting events, history, scenic and cultural beauty found within the Southeast and work together uniting the strengths and resources of the region.

As we already know, the Southeast is the perfect vacation destination where vast natural beauty, celebrated history, delightful attractions and incredible recreational activities come together. From basking in the sun on gorgeous white sand beaches to journeying down the Mississippi River on an authentic 19th century paddle-wheel riverboat, the region’s appeals are broad and diverse. It is no wonder millions of people visit it each year!

Today, STS is eleven states strong with over 550 members in our sustaining member states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. They continue their dedication to promoting and developing tourism by pioneering programs that have major impact on the tourism industry regionally and nationally.

STS Members Make the Difference!

Southeast Tourism Society is proud of member involvement, especially concerning programming and benefits. Members actively suggest new, effective programs and work to help implement them via four working councils (Communications, Government Affairs, Marketing, Membership), working committees (like the supplier committee) and a Marketing College Board of Trustees.

Working with the STS staff, they have created truly exceptional programs that support all members. Because of the efforts of these professionals, STS leads the way in the region with dynamic opportunity for networking, education, partnerships, co-operative marketing and unique benefits & programs that deliver great opportunities and extraordinary value!

STS Members

The Heart of STS

Occasionally STS is asked who can, or who should, be a member. The answer is easily defined, and vital to what is the strength of the Society. Reaching across all specialties within the Travel & Tourism industry, STS unites our industry with the common goal of professional growth, education and networking under a common umbrella. Today, STS is thriving with members from across the industry. STS accepts applications for membership from interested individuals and companies representing:

• Accommodation
• Attractions
• Colleges & Universities
• Destinations
• Facilities
• Media (Broadcast & Print)
• Parks (National, State, Local)
• Chambers, CVBs, Associations
• Special Events
• State Travel Directors
• Tour Operators,
• Transportation
• Travel Agencies
• Travel Writers
• Industry Service Providers