April 26, 2007

Anna Maria Island, Fla. (November 15, 2006) – On October 25, Massachusetts-based TripAdvisor™ announced its list of the fastest climbing 10 U.S. destinations based on user activity on www.tripadvisor.com. Spotted as the hottest destination by TripAdvisor’s TravelCast algorithm, Anna Maria Island is forecast to be the top U.S. destination for 2007. Anna Maria Island is part of Florida’s Gulf Islands, along with Longboat Key, and the mainland areas of Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch.

“We’re delighted to see this surge in interest in Anna Maria among the world’s largest travel community," said Larry White, executive director, Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Those of us who live here and welcome visitors every day are used to hearing how much people love Anna Maria Island and the surrounding area. It’s wonderful to see them share their opinions through TripAdvisor™."

TripAdvisor.com features more than 5 million unbiased reviews and opinions, covering 220,000+ hotels and attractions. With more than 20 million unique monthly visitors worldwide (source: comScore Media Metrix, July 2006), TripAdvisor™ features real advice from real travelers and easy access to major online travel sites, including Expedia.com®, Orbitz, Hotels.com® and American Airlines, for great deals.

According to White, Anna Maria Island is known for its lush tropical scenery, powder-soft, white sand beaches, and an Old Florida charm that is increasingly difficult to find in the Sunshine State. Visitors find a welcome retreat ideal for a “kick off your flip-flops and do nothing" vacation. The seven-and-a-half-mile long Anna Maria Island gives a nostalgic look back to a time when life moved more slowly, and an island-wide speed limit of 25 miles per hour helps keep things that way. An eclectic selection of dining experiences, beautiful scenery, and natural attractions combine to make Anna Maria Island and Florida’s Gulf Islands a top vacation destination.

The Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau promotes tourism to Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch through domestic and international advertising, public relations and marketing efforts.

For further information, contact
800-4-MANATEE or visit www.floridagulfislands.com.