A brand new tourism information point (TIP) has been opened in Southampton.
The TIP is the first in the city since the one in West Quay closed over a year ago, and is located at the Burlington House on Portland Terrace.
It is the brainchild of Michael Steel, who is the director of Kiwi Education, a training provider that works from and owns the 300-year-old listed building.
In his opening speech, Michael says he had been enjoying a meal at West Quay when he overheard a cashier advising German tourists on where to visit, and only offering locations outside of Southampton, which he thought was a missed opportunity for the city.
He decided to take action to do his bit, emphasising Southampton's cultural and historical landmarks by opening the TIP.
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Michael Steel, managing director of Kiwi Education, said: "We’ve had hundreds of visitors in the city knocking on our door on Portland Terrace and asking where things are.
"I spoke to Go Southampton about a plan, who said the council were working on a strategy for what to do next - that was 18 months ago.
"Tired of asking questions and seeing the frustrations of visitors, I decided to open my own visitor information point here at my office, offering information to people visiting Southampton.
"There is so much going on in the city. So much to be thankful for and positive about.
"I am self-funding this, and no external funding has been sought from the council."
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The TIP is entirely privately funded "off the back" of Kiwi Education and occupies the same space as their building's usual reception.
It was opened with a cheer from the town crier in an event coinciding with part of the educator's VE Day celebrations.
In addition to information on the best places to visit in Southampton, it also offers visitors a secure place to store their luggage while exploring the city.
Burlington House is a 300-year-old Grade II listed venue in the heart of Southampton City Centre, also available for meeting room hire, events, and workspace.
The TIP will be open from 8.30am to 5pm weekdays.
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