Southwest Florida is proving that beach destinations can evolve beyond sun and sand while maintaining their natural magic. In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, Tamara Pigott, executive director of Visit Fort Myers, joins Afar editorial director Billie Cohen to share how she's helped transform the region into a world-class travel destination over her 25 years with the organization, including 10 years in the top position.
Tamara discusses how Fort Myers, Sanibel Island, and Captiva Island have become household names while balancing tourism growth with environmental conservation. The region stands out as the "seashell capital of America" and maintains nearly 70 percent of Sanibel Island as preserved land with strict building height restrictions.
The conversation covers the ongoing recovery from Hurricane Ian, a Category 5 storm that hit in 2022, and how the tourism industry has rebounded with over 80 percent of accommodations now reopened destination-wide. Tamara also explores emerging trends like solo travel and how the region's vibrant downtown districts are creating urban experiences that complement the natural coastal attractions.
What You'll Learn
Sanibel Island is home to the Bailey-Matthews National Seashell Museum with interactive experiences for all ages
Nearly 70 percent of Sanibel Island remains preserved land with strict development guidelines
Fort Myers has developed beyond beaches with vibrant downtowns, breweries, entertainment districts, and cultural attractions
The region attracts visitors with household incomes over $100,000 who are seeking "respite getaway without a passport."
Key Moments
[Beginning] Tamara explains how the Fort Myers region offers a "natural experience" with migratory birds, dolphins, and manatees beyond traditional beach tourism
[Middle] Discussion of Hurricane Ian recovery efforts, with over 50 percent of island accommodations now reopened and destination-wide recovery at over 80 percent
[Middle] Tamara shares advice for other DMOs facing natural disasters: build deep relationships with emergency management, mayors, and community leaders before crisis hits
[End] Exploration of solo travel trends and how Fort Myers caters to travelers aged 45-55 seeking peaceful getaways
Resources
Read the transcript of the episode.
Visit the Visit Fort Myers website and social media handles.
Learn more about the Bailey-Matthews National Seashell Museum on Sanibel Island.
Explore Fort Myers' downtown district with the Luminary Autograph hotel and entertainment options.
Discover Bonita Springs' riverside downtown area with breweries and parks.
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This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.