PEAKLIFE

By Neha Mehrotra

Philadelphia, fondly known as the City of Brotherly Love, is a melting pot of culture, history, and innovation. Steeped in centuries of tradition, this dynamic metropolis offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. From exploring American history in Old City to indulging in a Philly Cheesesteak and going on a cultural expedition across the city, there are a multitude of experiences for Indian travellers in Philadelphia.

In an exclusive conversation with PEAKLIFE, Svetlana Yazovskikh, Vice President of Global Tourism – Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau, provides insights into the city’s unique attractions, iconic landmarks, sustainability efforts, and upcoming events, offering a glimpse into the enchanting experiences that await Indian travellers in this dynamic city.

1. How important is the Indian market for Philadelphia?

Svetlana Yazovskikh: The Indian market holds significant importance for Philadelphia, as evidenced by several key indicators. Firstly, India was the 5th largest source market for Philadelphia until 2019 and jumped to the third spot in overall arrivals in 2023, trailing behind Canada and the UK. Moreover, India ranks third in direct visitor spending and has consistently remained in the top five markets since 2000. Philadelphia’s robust educational and medical sectors further attract Indian students and medical tourists, generating considerable visitor traffic, particularly in the VFR segment. Additionally, the city’s rich cultural heritage and diverse tourism offerings have increasingly captivated Indian travellers, reinforcing Philadelphia’s appeal as a destination of choice.

2. What are some of the unique attractions that have proven to be particularly appealing to Indian tourists?

Svetlana Yazovskikh: Philadelphia offers a multifaceted experience that appeals to a wide range of travellers. Its culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of international delicacies and fine dining alongside local favourites such as cheesesteaks at the iconic Reading Terminal Market. Historical landmarks such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell offer glimpses into American history, while tax-free shopping and diverse boutiques add to the allure. Art and culture thrive in renowned museums like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, while vibrant neighbourhoods, outdoor spaces and parks like Fairmount Park provide diverse experiences. With its walkability and over 14,000 hotel rooms catering to all budgets, Philadelphia ensures accessible luxury. Additionally, Philadelphia recently hosted WrestleMania 40 in April 2024, aligning with the growing trend of sports tourism. Given India’s increasing interest in such events, it presents potential future opportunities for travel.

3. What steps are you taking to make Philadelphia a sustainable destination?

Svetlana Yazovskikh: Philadelphia is committed to becoming a sustainable destination through a range of initiatives across various sectors. In the realm of accommodations, over 90% of hotels near the Pennsylvania Convention Centre are within walking distance, reducing the need for alternative transportation and minimising emissions. Many hotels have implemented carbon reduction plans and sustainable practices such as sourcing eco-friendly products and eliminating single-use plastics.

In terms of transportation, Philadelphia boasts a robust public transit system operated by SEPTA, with 15% of its electricity sourced from renewables and 9 out of 10 buses being hybrid-electric, resulting in emission reductions of up to 40%. Additionally, the Indego Bike Share programme offers over 140 bike share stations, providing eco-friendly transportation options for city exploration.

The City of Philadelphia itself has taken significant steps towards sustainability, including the utilisation of a solar array in rural Pennsylvania to generate up to 25% of the power consumed by key municipal complexes like Philadelphia International Airport and City Hall. Furthermore, the Municipal Energy Master Plan outlines ambitious goals to halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, reduce energy usage by 20%, transition to 100% renewable electricity, and manage or decrease energy costs.

An executive order mandates that all new municipal buildings and major renovation projects achieve LEED Gold certification since July 2023, resulting in eight certified buildings so far.

4. Lastly, what’s next?

Svetlana Yazovskikh: Looking ahead, Philadelphia is primed for a landmark year in 2026, as it commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with a series of celebratory events while hosting prestigious gatherings like the PCMA Convening Leaders, the MLB All-Star Game, and the FIFA World Cup 2026. Concurrently, our focus is on deepening ties with India through initiatives such as expanding direct flight routes, fostering strategic partnerships, and tailoring marketing efforts to appeal to Indian travellers. By proactively addressing market trends and continuing to prioritise sustainability, we aim to ensure that every visit to Philadelphia is not only memorable but also contributes to fostering lasting cultural connections and enriching experiences for all.