Journalistic Guidelines

Kennebunk Kennbunkport Chamber of Commerce's Travel Media Policies

The Kennebunk Kennebunkport Chamber of Commerce (KKCC) is happy to assist journalists developing travel stories about The Kennebunk's attractions, accommodations, restaurants, activities and travel-related businesses.

To serve you better, we have developed the following set of guidelines as a way of ensuring that all journalists receive equal treatment and that each has as pleasant an experience as possible.

For the purposes of these guidelines, we have divided journalists into two categories: those participating in a group familiarization tour organized and paid for by the state, and those traveling independently - either on assignment for a publication or on their own. We work very closely with other Chambers of Commerce, CVBs and Nancy Marshall Communications, the official PR firm working on behalf of the State of Maine Office of Tourism.

We appreciate your willingness to abide by these guidelines. Your willingness to do so promotes a fun and successful Kennebunk experience.

1. All journalists will be asked to fill out an application before participating in an organized press tour of the area or receiving assistance in planning an individual trip.

2. All journalists seeking assistance in planning an independent tour of The Kennebunks must give KKCC at least three to four weeks notice of their intentions. This is a matter of courtesy to the private-sector partners (hotels, restaurants, attractions, event organizers, etc.) who will help make your trip a success.

3. Independent journalists will be responsible for their own transportation to and from The Kennbunks. On an organized group press trip, transportation will be provided.

4. Accommodations, admission to attractions and most meals will be provided by KKCC whenever possible. Our staff will attempt to negotiate complimentary or reduced-rate arrangements for independent writers but cannot guarantee success. Arrangements for such writers will be handled on a case-by-case basis, depending on seasonal availability, etc.

5. No spouses, children or significant others are guaranteed participation in an organized press tour, and guests will be invited at KKCC's discretion on a trip-by-trip basis. Journalists traveling independently often bring friends and family members with them. However, it should be remembered that the presence of these guests may make it more difficult or impossible for KKCC to negotiate complimentary meals, accommodations or admissions. Such arrangements are left to the discretion of our contacts at attractions, restaurants, accommodations and events.

As a matter of courtesy, we request that all journalists hosted by KKCC please send at least one copy of any article(s) or program(s) generated as a result of the visit.