Inside Savannah: A Conversation with Visit Savannah President & CEO Joseph Marinelli

As Journeys North America 2026 heads to Savannah, we’re thrilled to be partnering with Visit Savannah to showcase one of the most distinctive and storied destinations in the United States. Few people know Savannah’s tourism landscape better than Joseph Marinelli, President and CEO of Visit Savannah, who has spent nearly two decades leading the destination’s growth, evolution, and global appeal.

We sat down with Joseph to talk about his journey into the travel and tourism industry, the evolution of Savannah’s luxury market, and what makes the city such a compelling place to visit - and to host Journeys North America.

Can you tell us about your role at Visit Savannah?

As President and CEO, I oversee all of the programs of work and activities of four Savannah-area tourism marketing entities: Visit Savannah, which is the destination marketing organization (DMO) for the Savannah/Chatham County area; Visit Tybee, the DMO for Tybee Island, Savannah’s beach community; the Savannah Sports Council; and Choose Garden City, which represents a Savannah suburb.

Could you share a bit about your background and how you got started in the tourism industry - and what drew you to Visit Savannah?

Starting from my elementary school days, I was always interested in how cities and states marketed themselves. I would write to Chambers of Commerce requesting brochures, maps, and stickers - and then wait by the mailbox for a response.

My career officially began as a line-level cook in restaurants, which led to a role in the kitchen at the Cleveland Airport Marriott. From there, I moved into the hotel’s sales department, which truly launched my career in travel and tourism.

After four years, I was recruited by Westin Hotels and Resorts and held various sales roles in Detroit, Pittsburgh, Washington, DC, New York City, and Charlotte. My time in New York was especially memorable—I served as Director of Sales at the iconic Plaza Hotel when it was part of Westin.

After more than 17 years with Westin, I moved into the destination side of the industry as Vice President of Sales at the Columbus Convention and Visitors Bureau. I later became Senior Vice President at Experience Columbus, where I spent 10 years before being recruited to Savannah as President.

In January 2026, I began my 20th year leading Visit Savannah.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your role?

With responsibility for more than 50 full- and part-time employees - and indirectly for nearly 27,000 local residents who make their living supporting our industry - keeping people working is always top of mind.

Beyond that, promoting and marketing a destination comes with daily trials and tribulations, many of which are outside of our control. It’s incredibly rewarding work, but it can also bring sleepless nights.

What trends are you currently seeing that are shaping the luxury travel industry?

Based on the reports I read almost daily, both the hotel and airline industries are making significant moves to better support the luxury traveler. As a destination, we must stay tuned in and be sensitive to those shifts at all times.

How has the luxury travel market in Savannah evolved over the past decade?

We’ve seen tremendous growth in our hotel and short-term rental offerings, as well as in our culinary and retail scenes. In every way, Savannah has taken giant steps to support and appeal to the luxury traveler.

What inspired the decision to host Journeys North America 2026?

Well, I learned quickly that one cannot say no to Micaela Giacobbe! But beyond that, as Savannah’s tourism marketing organization, we recognize the importance of attracting more international visitors. Journeys North America gives us an incredible opportunity to do exactly that.

What’s next for Visit Savannah?

Our 2026 business plan focuses heavily on boosting visitation and visitor spending in the near term. At the same time, with a newly expanded convention center, a growing hotel inventory, and more air service than ever before, we’re also laying the groundwork for strong, sustainable growth in the years ahead.

Why should our viewers visit Savannah - or recommend it to their friends, family, and customers?

Savannah offers an immersive experience that truly cannot be found anywhere else in the United States. From our historic landmarks and sites to our exceptional coastal cuisine, world-class shopping, tours, attractions, and museums - Savannah is a must-do, bucket-list destination for everyone.

As we look ahead to Journeys North America 2026, Savannah stands ready to welcome the global luxury travel community with its signature blend of history, hospitality, and effortless charm. With leaders like Joseph Marinelli at the helm, the destination continues to evolve while staying true to what makes it unforgettable. We can’t wait to experience Savannah together.