RECAP: Future of Responsible Tourism Forum with Bloomberg and City of Charleston

On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, Historic Charleston Foundation hosted the Future of Responsible Tourism Forum with Bloomberg Associates and the City of Charleston at The Charleston Museum's Arthur WIlcox Auditorium. Speakers included Charleston Mayor William Cogswell, Dr. Daniel Guttentag with the City of Charleston, and from Bloomberg Associates, George Fertitta, Gordon Ines and Kate D. Levin.

The full Forum was recorded and is available to stream through HCF's YouTube Channel.

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The City’s tourism focus prioritizes the needs of the residents, expanding visitor experiences beyond downtown, and encouraging visitors to act respectfully. The May 20 Forum served as a kickoff for The City of Charleston’s initiative with Bloomberg Assoicates, who will meet with leaders in the community this summer to present recommendations this fall.

During the Forum, HCF polled the audience. The results were as follows: 

• Question 1: What do you enjoy most about living in Charleston?

• Question 2: What is the greatest benefit of tourism to you?

• Question 3: What is the biggest challenge resulting from tourism?

• Question 4: From the case studies presented this evening, which three could be most useful to Charleston? (CHOOSE UP TO 3)

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