The Columbia Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) has launched a sizzling summer advertising campaign.

The summer promotions campaign includes television and radio spots that began running July 15 in the North Carolina area. The campaign encourages residents in Asheville, Charlotte, and western parts of North Carolina to experience the history, family, and kid- friendly attractions of Columbia.

A Web site, www.experiencecolumbia. com, has been created as a call to action and provides information on travel packages along with the television ad that is currently running in North Carolina.

The Web site is in addition to the CVB's current one at www.columbiacvb. com. It is a social media portal that features value packaged getaways and integrates Twitter, YouTube, Flickr, Facebook, and blogs. Several planned social media contests will feature various giveaways.