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2008 Ocean City Insider
2008 Ocean City Insider
The first-ever unspun press kit featuring content from real OC visitors Introducing the 2008 Ocean City Insider
Kathleen Shaffer
410.902.5053
kshaffer@mghus.com
Donna Abbott
410.723.8609
dabbott@ococean.com
Most vacation destinations have visitors or tourists, but Ocean City,
Md., has friends and loyalists. This press kit has been inspired and guided
by OCs most informed and knowledgeable sources our biggest fans and
frequent guests.
The concept of this kit is simple: let the voices of Ocean City enthusiasts be
heard. After all, they make OC, Md one of Americas most popular year-
round beach resorts. To do this, we asked our friends from across the country
to share their wealth of Ocean City information with you, the media.
The folks heard and seen in this kit are true OC lovers and passionate
experts, who are excited to share their insider tips and information with your
audience. Here are the must-have media kit categories they came up with:
Hidden Gems of Ocean City and Insider Information
Sure you may
have covered Ocean City before, but not like this. Our Ocean City experts
introduce you to secret spots on the beach, lesser-known attractions and
travel tips when visiting.
Foodie Finds
If there is one thing our friends
share a passion for besides Ocean City, of course
its food. Our folks tell you about their favorite
Ocean City foods and restaurants, and why Ocean
City is a foodie heaven.
Its All in the Family
Roots run deep in
Ocean City and boy, do our friends want to tell
you about them! Ocean City has a mysterious
ability to bring people together, creating family
traditions and lasting memories. We introduce
you to the heart and soul of Ocean City our
loyal vacationing families.
Girls and Guys Getaways
Looking to get away from the routine and
relax with a group of your closest friends? Ocean City is a great location
for a girls-only or guys-only weekend. Because Ocean City is home to
exciting nightlife, relaxing spas and beautiful golf
courses, our insiders let you in on why OC is the
perfect spot for a quick getaway.
Ocean City Recreation
Ocean City offers
something for everyone, especially when it comes
to staying active. Our experts share their top picks
for recreation activities while in town.
Why OC, Md.?
The U.S. is home to hundreds
of beaches, all of which have unique characteristics
and endearing qualities. But what is it about
Ocean City, Md., that keeps people coming back
year after year? Our contributors uncover OCs
uncanny ability to attract beachgoers time and time again.
Media Contacts:
A very special thanks to our insiders who contributed
pictures for this kit: Allison Amrhein, Christina Burck, Glen
Casalaspro, John Novak, Belinda Reynolds and Kate Welsh. Hidden Gems and Insider Information
No matter how often you visit Ocean City, there is always something new
to discover its just a matter of finding it. Or, in this case, having insider
information. This card is filled with great attractions, activities and Ocean
City tips that our sources want to share with you.
Hidden Gems
Assateague Island
Okay, so technically Assateague is not in Ocean
City, but its just a short drive away. Assateague Island National Seashore is
home to pristine beaches, marshes, maritime forests, and several herds of
wild horses and other wildlife. Walk the nature trails through
the preserve or visit the Barrier Island Visitor Center,
which is fun and educational for both children and adults.
Assateague provides the perfect combination of relaxation
and excitement. Pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it.
The OC Air Show
The inaugural OC Air Show soars into
town June 10-11, 2008. Headlined by the Golden Knights
and US Jet, the show will feature military aircraft
demonstrations, low-altitude fly overs and civilian
aerobatic performances. This is one of the countrys
only air shows that takes place over the ocean. For
more information, visit www.ocairshow.com. Mark
your calendars: A media day for the Air Show is being
planned for June 9, 2008. Media will have special
access to planes, pilots and aerobatic performers.
Exclusive media flights are also in the works.
Free Entertainment
The Town of Ocean City
sponsors several free events throughout the
summer of which our insiders recommend taking
advantage. These events include Sundaes in the Park, concerts on the
beach, bonfire hour, museum programs, and concerts and block parties
at Ocean Citys newest downtown venue, Sunset Park. New this year are
family movie nights on the beach and family beach games. For a full listing
of 2008 activities visit www.ococean.com.
Insider Tips
Tip 1:
Considering a trip to Ocean City? Go during Springfest (May
1- 4, 2008) or Sunfest (Sept. 18-21, 2008). All of Ocean Citys most
popular elements come together at these events, allowing first-time visitors
to experience the best of Ocean City in one place.
Tip 2:
When visiting Ocean City for the first time, check out the
boardwalk ASAP. Its a great introduction to Ocean City. You can find
restaurants, attractions and travel information as you stroll seaside.
Tip 3:
Looking for a perfect spot on the beach? Put on your flip-flops and
head midtown. This section allows for endless sun and the area is less crowded
because it lies between the boardwalk and the larger high-rise buildings.
Tip 4:
Rent a bike, or bring your own! Ocean City is a bike-friendly town with
designated bike lanes on main streets. Cruise up and down the boardwalk
on an old-fashioned beach cruiser, or if youre adventurous, try a tandem!
"Take a day trip to Assateague. It's absolutely beautiful
and brings a lot of joy. You are guaranteed to see a pony and
the kids will love it. Don't forget the bug spray though."
-Belinda Reynolds, Chesapeake City, Md. Now more than ever, food tops the list of
what is important to travelers when choosing
a vacation destination. Chowing down is so
essential to vacationers that the concept of
foodie travel has emerged. Foodie travel
is based on the premise that the cuisine in a
certain location is so good, so impeccable, that it alone is worth
the trip. Our Ocean City fans know this concept all too well, as OCs
signature eats make their mouths water year-round.
Ocean City Staples
Our group says you cant leave town without tasting these beach delights:
Thrashers Fries
With multiple locations on the boardwalk, try these
famous beach fries with vinegar. Trust us, you wont find french fries like
this anywhere else!
Fishers Popcorn
Family owned since 1937, you can smell this buttery-
sweet popcorn as you walk along the boardwalk. Fishers Popcorn is also
one of Ocean Citys most popular souvenirs. Maybe youve been lucky
enough to receive a batch from another OC fan/lover.
Crabs
Nothing beats picking crabs downey ocean. So, when in
Maryland, do as the Marylanders do. Learn the art of getting every last bit
of juicy meat out of these crustaceans of the Chesapeake. There is no better
place to learn than Ocean City.
Candy Kitchen Taffy and Fudge
For nearly 70 years, Candy Kitchens
taffy and creamy fudge have been an essential treat for Ocean City visitors.
With 22 locations throughout the area, their signature pink and orange
stores are impossible to miss.
Taste of Ocean City
Ocean City is home to a wide range of wonderful restaurants, from fine-
dining establishments to casual bars and grills. Our insiders believe no foodie
vacation in Ocean City is complete without dining at an establishment in
each of these delectable categories:
Waterfront Dining
Ocean City boasts a phenomenal list of restaurants
with waterfront locations. Many OC restaurants are famous for having
spectacular sunset views and to compliment the scenery, many offer sunset
specials on drinks and appetizers.
Seafood Restaurants
Crabs may reign supreme in Ocean City, but our
prime location along the Gulf Stream allows seafood lovers to truly have the
best catch of the day. Our insiders recommend trying one of OCs famous
all-you-can-eat seafood buffets for a sampling of fresh tuna, mahi-mahi,
swordfish and shellfish.
Breakfast Restaurants
Coastal Highway is a breakfast lovers paradise lined
with pancake and waffle houses, bakeries and homemade donut shops galore.
Late Night Dining
Whether you are looking to finish off your day with
a milk shake or a full meal, many Ocean City restaurants are open until the
wee hours of the morning. Our insiders recommend trying one of many
old-fashioned ice cream parlors or popular beach diners.
For a full list of restaurants visit www.ococean.com. Looking for a personal
OC restaurant recommendation? Contact Kathleen Shaffer at 410-902-5053
or kshaffer@mghus.com to locate an Ocean City insider in your area.
The Most Delicious Week of the Year-
Ocean City Restaurant Week, June 1-8, 2008
Want to sample Ocean Citys signature restaurants while watching
your wallet? Explore Ocean City dining this week and get a three-course
dinner for $30 or a two-course lunch for $20. For a list of participating
restaur