Postcard from Queensland - We're Open for Business
Queensland has a message for Americans and Canadians - we are open for business
January 27, 2011 - Queensland is home to the Great Barrier Reef, the natural wonder of the world, and its gateways Cairns, Port Douglas and the Whitsunday Islands, which weren't affected by flooding, have the welcome mat ready for Americans and Canadians. That includes beaches, island resorts, accommodation providers, tours and attractions.
Tourism Queensland's Director - Americas, Shana Pereira, said that with most of the state's tourism destinations unaffected by the floods and affected regions now on the way to recovery, the time was right for Americans and Canadians to come and visit.
"Queensland is Where Australia Shines and in the aftermath of the floods we continue to see shining examples of Queenslanders banding together in a way that's nothing short of awe-inspiring.
"We know that our American and Canadian friends have reached out to us and asked how they can help in the recovery and the best way to help Queensland is by booking a Queensland vacation, and by encouraging friends and family to do the same," said Ms Pereira.
On January 20, Queensland Tourism Ambassador and Best Job in the World winner Ben Southall took a tour of Brisbane and spoke with businesses who were affected by the recent floods - they are back up and running and raring to go - you can watch the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40fImxnnq0o
With Qantas' recent announcement of direct flights Dallas/Fort Worth to Brisbane from May and airfares Los Angeles to Cairns from $499 each way*, there are plenty of reasons to pay a visit to Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef.
"Despite the challenges faced, the spirit and resilience of the Queensland tourism industry has shown proves why Queensland really is Where Australia Shines," Ms Pereira said.
Travel information can also be found at www.destinationqueensland.com
*A special offer from Qantas: fly to Cairns, Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, including a stopover in Sydney, from $499 each way based on round trip travel from Los Angeles. Click here or visit www.qantas.com find out more.




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