By Benjamin Njoku
The City of East Point is ramping up efforts to position itself as a major international gateway destination ahead of the FIFA World Cup, as tourism and hospitality leaders gathered for the National Travel and Tourism Week 2026 Kickoff Event in Georgia.
Hosted by the East Point Convention and Visitors Bureau, the event brought together government officials, hospitality executives, tourism advocates, investors, and community stakeholders committed to strengthening tourism, economic growth, and international engagement in the region.
National Travel and Tourism Week highlights the role of travel and tourism as drivers of economic opportunity, job creation, cultural exchange, and community development across the United States.
In a statement issued to newsmen in Abuja, Chantel Ross Francois, President of the East Point Convention and Visitors Bureau, said the city’s location minutes from Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport gives it growing strategic importance as a hospitality and transportation hub.
Leaders at the event noted that East Point is uniquely positioned to welcome thousands of global visitors expected for the FIFA World Cup and other international events scheduled for the Atlanta metropolitan region.
Attendees included Chantel Ross Francois, Chairman Neel Shah, Georgia State Senator Sonya Halpern, and Nilesh Patel.
During the event, the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) was recognized for its contributions to the U.S. hospitality sector. AAHOA, the country’s second-largest hotel owners association, represents nearly 60% of hotel owners nationwide, with more than 20,000 members. Organizers noted that 17 of East Point’s 19 hotels are owned by AAHOA members, underscoring the association’s role in supporting the city’s hospitality industry and economy.
Stakeholders said East Point’s expanding hotel infrastructure, accessibility, cultural diversity, and proximity to major attractions make it an ideal destination for tourists, sports fans, business travelers, and international guests.
State Senator Sonya Halpern emphasized tourism’s role in creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and strengthening communities across Georgia.
Participants called for stronger collaboration between government institutions, hospitality operators, investors, and community organizations to keep the city competitive on the global tourism map.
Chairman Neel Shah reaffirmed the sector’s commitment to providing world-class accommodation and quality visitor experiences ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
Community leaders also praised tourism as a driver of inclusive economic growth, cultural exchange, and investment opportunities in the city.
The National Travel and Tourism Week 2026 celebration served as a platform to present East Point as more than a transit point, but as a vibrant community where visitors can experience culture, hospitality, connectivity, and opportunity.
“As the world prepares for one of the largest sporting events on the planet, East Point is ready to welcome the world,” organizers said.
The East Point Convention and Visitors Bureau described the city as “a place where the world can stay, connect, experience hospitality, and compete.”
Article FIFA World Cup 2026: East Point City prepares as major gateway Live On NgGossips.
