QUESTION: Please provide detail on the purpose of this program, how it is funded, and who may participate.

ANSWER: Established in 2007, Experience America is a public diplomacy program aimed at educating other nations about America and strengthening our bonds economically, socially and politically with countries around the globe. The goal of Experience America is to share the best of our nation with senior foreign officials and foster new, mutually beneficial relationships with the American communities they visit.

The trip to New Orleans is the eighth Experience America trip and fourth of this Administration. Other destinations included California, Texas, Florida, New York City, Chicago, Atlanta, and Alaska. Experience America trips are announced to the foreign diplomatic missions and chiefs of mission participate as their schedules permit. Participating ambassadors pay for their lodging and travel, and other expenses are covered by hosts of events and supporters of the program.