Tell Me The Best Local Places Your Town Has To Offer


If someone came into your town and asked you the best place to eat, to shop, and to do something they can't do anywhere else, what would you tell them? If you answered that question without sarcasm or making a joke about how there's nothing to do here, you'd make the perfect hometown ambassador. If not, let's check your heart condition!


When we're immersed in our own community day in and day out - eating in the same restaurants, shopping at the same stores, hearing the same stories - we completely lose sight of what's new and interesting to visitors. Trust me, I'm a prime example and it's my job. Do you get your coffee in the same place every morning, or do know if your town's convention and visitors bureau has a coffee trail on their website (we do!) where you can explore some different places?


When we travel, we don't want to eat at a restaurant we have at home. We want something new and interesting and different - a one-of-a-kind gastronomical experience. Where do you take friends and relatives when they're visiting from out of town? If you trust that eatery with your loved ones, it would be a great one to share with others. (Please, no fast food! Make it fun and interesting.)


As a newly appointed ambassador for your city, you are no longer allowed to say "There's nothing to do here." Your local civic groups, businesses, and tourism organizations are putting in countless hours making local events that are worth talking about ... and going to! Find your town's website and calendar - mine is www.meetottumwa.org - and educate yourself on what's actually happening in your community.


No city is perfect, but all our towns have some pretty amazing people who are doing great things. Those are the stories and the places that we need to spend our time talking about. If you love a local restaurant, store, or attraction, share it with someone. If you have a passion for an event or an organization, talk about it. Your support and encouragement is addictive and contagious, and that might be just what your community needs to grow and thrive.

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