Friday, 4th July 2008
A picture of Bristol's spectacular International Balloon Fiesta, which celebrates its 30th anniversary in August, takes pride of place on the cover of one of two brand new official visitor guides to be launched today by Destination Bristol.

The Bristol Short Breaks Guide 2008 follows in the success of last year's The Bristol Guide 2007 in promoting Bristol as a leading destination for visitors seeking a short break. As well as featuring all that's best about what to see and do in Bristol, it carries an in-depth list of places to stay in the city and surrounding countryside.
As part of a new campaign to target a broader range of single day and short break visitors, Destination Bristol has extended the Bristol Short Breaks Guide to include sections providing information on how to enjoy the city on different budgets.
The 'Luxury Breaks' section looks at indulgent hotel and spa packages as well as extravagant city attractions, such as evening champagne balloon flights. 'Bristol on a Budget' explores activities and entertainment that can be enjoyed without having to break the bank, as well as budget accommodation available throughout the city.
John Dowling, Chair of the Bristol Hotelier's Association, comments: 'This is an invaluable guide, which we place in all our bedrooms so that our guests know exactly what is happening in and around the city's attractions. A must for anyone visiting Bristol.'
Also launched today is the Pocket Guide 2008, a handy A5-sized brochure providing maps and useful information on Bristol's attractions, restaurants, bars, theatres, art galleries and shopping venues. It also gives advice on travelling to the surrounding areas, including Bath, Somerset, Wiltshire and the Cotswolds.
An events listing for 2008 highlights the major shows, festivals and exhibitions for the year ahead and reference maps at the back of the guide provide a useful tool for any visitor planning their next trip to the city.
Feisal Khalif, marketing manager at Destination Bristol said; 'The 30th anniversary of the International Balloon Fiesta and the opening of Cabot Circus promise to be the highlights of an exciting year for tourism in Bristol. The industry continues to develop and work together to make the most of the city's assets, creating an impressive mix of attractions, events and experiences, which gives the area a unique feel and helps make it one of the UK's most popular short-break destinations'.
-ENDS-
Notes to Editor
1. Destination Bristol, formerly the Bristol Tourism and Conference Bureau is a not for profit partnership between Bristol City Council and Business West. Destination Bristol is the destination management partnership for Bristol and South Gloucestershire and leads the marketing of the area as a travel destination. The aim of the organisation is to work with members and partners, to increase business competitiveness, support employment and economic growth, and raise the profile of the Bristol city-region as a European-class travel destination.
2. For more detailed information about the area, access the city's official tourism website at www.visitbristol.co.uk
For more information please contact:
Kerrie Grist
Marketing Executive
Destination Bristol
Tel: 0117 946 2205
Email: kerrie.grist@destinationbristol.co.uk