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This paper reflects the findings of research that studied DUI [driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs] issues in Charleston, South Carolina, a tourism-oriented Southern USA city. The results of that study provided local police with a detailed analysis of the city's DUI arrests over an extended period of time and provided recommendations for both deterrent and enforcement improvement. What makes the research appropriate for this journal is that the work was done with undergraduate student assistance and also that it became the focus of a class project for an upper-level hospitality and tourism management course. We are pleased to share the results of the study and the class assignment so that others wishing to do so may replicate the valuable learning exercise into their teaching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research looks at the relationship between political libertarianism and personal self-interest, as informed by the concept of NIMBYism (not-in-my-backyard) that underlies much of the resident attitude toward tourism literature. Based on a comprehensive survey of more than 500 residents from Charleston, South Carolina, a city heavily dependent on tourism, the research determined, as the literature would predict, that general views toward tourism were highly dependent on where one lives. However, for specific tourism issues, one's personal political views tended to trump geography. Application of theory and suggestions for tourism policy makers are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research note takes a brief empirical look at the expenditure patterns and tourist behaviours of road-race tourists to Charleston, South Carolina during the city's annual Cooper River Bridge Run, which last year attracted more than 45,000 participants. The findings suggest that runners/walkers are less than ideal tourists for the community. The note concludes with suggestions to tourism officials in other communities that may be considering the addition of a road race to their annual events calendar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose — The purpose of this research is to study the impact of the Spoleto, USA festival on the Charleston, SC hotel industry. Anecdotal evidence indicates that, while the highly successful event has benefited the community as a whole, hotels have not shared in the good fortune festival organizers and university-sponsored economic studies indicate should have accrued. Design/methodology/approach — Secondary data, obtained from Smith Travel Research, spanning four festival periods (2000-2003), have been analyzed, comparing festival-period hotel occupancy rates and average daily rates (ADRs) with non-festival periods. Findings — Neither Spoleto-period hotel occupancy nor ADR were enhanced by the festival. Analysis indicated that local hotels are not receiving the expected festival-driven benefits. The numbers indicate that Spoleto has caused more potential visitors to avoid the city than it has attracted. Research limitations/implications — On a micro-level, Charleston hotel and tourism officials learn about a festival's impact on their city. On a macro-level, other cities and festival organizers may be encouraged to review their events to determine whether they are contributing to their local economy as expected. There is no suggestion that what has occurred in Charleston would necessarily occur elsewhere. Practical implications — The paper is quite practical and should be of significant value to industry and governmental officials. The most significant contribution is making the stakeholders aware of an issue of importance that is easily overlooked. Originality/value — This research offers a fresh look at an issue not previously specifically addressed. While a healthy body of research speaks to the positive benefits of festivals and special events, looking at the potential shortfalls from the hotel's perspective makes this paper of significant value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The events of 11th September, 200I had immediate impact on the tourism industry of the world. For domestic US tourism, overall demand fell by 15 per cent overnight, with hotel rates simultaneously softening by I0 per cent. The industry faced an uncertain future. This paper looks at post-9/ l l tourism in Charleston, SC. The city, which suffered an immediate decline following 9/11 steeper than the national average, has since enjoyed a remarkably robust recovery. In reviewing this recovery, the crisis management actions of the Charleston Area Convention and Visitors Bureau are discussed and analysed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]