Courtesy of IOT
Main street view in Galena
Series features seven unique Illinois videos produced by industry veteran, Richard Bangs, in partnership between Orbitz and Illinois Office of Tourism
For Distribution
June 15, 2015
Contact: Marla Cichowski
312-324-3510
marla@timezoneone.com
Chicago – The Illinois Office of Tourism is bringing Illinois to one of the leading online travel sites, Orbitz.com, through a new Orbitz Originals video series and online travel guide, produced by travel industry veteran Richard Bangs, which launched today. Orbitz Originals: Illinois includes seven new videos that showcase a different slice of the Land of Lincoln. The videos are housed on a special Illinois-themed landing page on Orbitz.com, which also provides travelers the ability to book travel to Illinois directly from the page.
The videos give viewers an intimate and in-depth account of the range of travel experiences that can only be found in Illinois. Destinations featured include Alton, Chicago, Galena, Lake County, Southern Illinois wine country, and Starved Rock State Park/Utica area.
“What makes Illinois so unique is the different types of experiences you can have here, from the world-class cultural mecca of Chicago to the tranquil beauty of Shawnee National Forest,” said Cory Jobe, Illinois state travel director. “Who better than Richard Bangs to take a close look at what makes Illinois so great, and discover the one-of-a-kind experiences that should put Illinois at the top of anyone’s must-visit list.”
Richard Bangs has spent more than 40 years as an adventure travel pioneer, explorer and traveler. He has published thousands of travel magazine articles, books, video documentaries and digital media projects. The Orbitz Originals: Illinois series provided Bangs a chance to explore Illinois in-depth for the first time.
“I have worked with tourism authorities all over the world, and throughout the U.S., but I must confess...and I did not expect this...that Illinois was the warmest, most welcoming and enthusiastic among the lot,” said Bangs. “Most of time I felt like I was visiting family. There is such a pride of place and product that it is contagious....I fell under the spell, but the thing is, the reality is as good as any magic. It’s just a great state!”
Videos in the series include: