18 minute read
Leading locations
Be inspired 58 / Leading locations
Kentucky highlights
Sitting at the crossroads of several regions of the U.S., Kentucky offers a unique mix of the South and the Midwest that sets it apart from any other state
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HEART OF HORSE COUNTRY TASTE THE STATE’S FAVOURITE TIPPLE
The sound of thundering hooves is common in Kentucky, whether from a horseback riding adventure or a live thoroughbred derby race. Lexington is known as the ‘Horse Capital of the World’ due to its rolling hills and farms where stallions gallop and breeders raise the next champions. In nearby Louisville, the state’s largest city, the iconic Kentucky Derby is staged on the fi rst Saturday in May before a colossal crowd at Churchill Downs. kentuckytourism.com/horses Those with a taste for bourbon can sip their way around countless distilleries state-wide. Kentucky is the prime producer of this corn-based whiskey, making 95% of the world’s supply. Famous bourbon makers craft their own particular blends in idyllic rural distilleries, where guests are invited to walk the grounds and see the process in action. Restaurants and bars also celebrate this signature spirit through inventive dishes and specialty cocktails. kentuckytourism.com/bourbon-country
LOCALLY SOURCED WITH SIGNATURE FLAVOURS BIRTHPLACE OF BLUEGRASS
SCENERY AND NATURAL WONDERS
Kentucky is home to some spectacular outdoor areas, such as Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest cave system in the world with over 400 miles of underground passages. Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley in the southwestern region are great places to kayak, sail and swim, while Lake Cumberland in south-central Kentucky is the ‘Houseboat Capital of the World.’ Cumberland Falls, dubbed ‘the Niagara of the South’ in the southeast, is a magnifi cent natural wonder while nearby Red River Gorge off ers endless outdoor fun such as hiking and biking. kentuckytourism.com/ky-outdoors In a state with so much farmland, locallysourced produce is on most menus. Louisville serves up talented chefs and bourbon-inspired hotspots; Lexington off ers Southern fare ranging from casual to refi ned dining, and a host of smaller towns celebrate the fl avours of the Bluegrass. Food events include Newport’s Great Inland Seafood Festival, the International Bar-B-Que Festival in Owensboro and the World Chicken Festival in London. kentuckytourism.com/culinary The folk-tinged take on country music known as bluegrass is forever linked to Kentucky – and music-lovers from across the world catch live acts everywhere from intimate front porches and tiny local bars to major events. Performances also accompany exhibits, oral histories, memorabilia and more at Owensboro’s newly renovated Bluegrass Hall of Fame and Museum, which also off ers visitors the chance to form their own band. kentuckytourism.com/music
Be Inspired 60 / The review
SHOW REPORT
Travel goes south to New Orleans
Travel South International Showcase, one of the few ‘live’ trade shows in 2021, took place in the ‘Big Easy’ late last year. Here’s a round-up of news from the show
The Travel South International Showcase, the annual trade convention that shows off the tourism off erings of 13 U.S. states, has been hailed as one of the most successful in the event’s history.
Held in New Orleans, Louisiana, the ninth running of the show was a ‘live’ event that attracted 113 tour operators and journalists from 17 countries, with 6982 business meetings.
Tourism to a region that covers Arkansas, Missouri, Louisiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia has been badly hit by the pandemic: from 2007 to 2019 tourism to the South rose 61%, but 2020 and the global pandemic brought an 81% drop.
“This was an $8.8 billion industry in 2019 but since March 2020 job and revenue losses have been staggering and the South needs international travel back to replenish these losses and to grow again,” said Liz Bittner, President & CEO of Travel South.
“The travel economy cannot recover without international visitors,” she said. “It was critical to kick-start recovery with a global welcome (in New Orleans); partnerships
JILL KELLY
are crucial and the travel trade is vital. “Travel South is inviting visitors to slow down, to go down a path less travelled. Together we can recover and rebuild. It’s time to make plans.”
Travis Napper, Tourism Director for Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, said: “It was my fi rst Travel South International Showcase and I was impressed with the turnout and the enthusiasm to get back to traveling, especially in the South.
“It was fun getting to represent Arkansas and build on the connections to bring new and returning travellers to Arkansas in the future.”
UK tour operators in New Orleans were delighted to be back in a region that has a host of product to off er visitors looking for a well-rounded line-up of Americana experiences.
Owen Walker, North America Product Manager for Cox & Kings, said clients are interested in the
JILL KELLY Travel South region from a cultural perspective.
“We have just launched Southern product for the fi rst time and we are expecting clients to want to spend longer experiencing the region.
“This show has been good for us in terms of size and the variety of suppliers I met with; It’s such a good resource for picking up new ideas.
“I was surprised by the French Quarter in New Orleans; it has a real heart and soul. Our clients will love the cultural, food and music experiences, especially those that are hands on.”
Alain Kasteleyn. Co-Owner of Discover North America, said: “ Its nice to be back, to see people in person and to reconnect. This was my fi rst international show since the pandemic and it was good to see that it is very safe here and that the USA travel experience is still pretty easy and safe.”
IN BRIEF
• Georgia island retreat’s dual hotels
A new dual-branded Marriott is welcoming guests to Jekyll Island, Georgia. What was a vacant lot for more than 15 years is now occupied by the 209-room Marriott beach resort, featuring the 120-room Courtyard by Marriott and the 89-room Residence Inn by Marriott. Amenities include the largest pool on Jekyll, a splash pad for children, fi re pits, a Bistro restaurant and an indoor/outdoor bar. exploregeorgia.org
• Graceland marks Elvis 45 years on
Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee, is running a year-long celebration to mark the 45th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s’ passing. Events will include concerts and exclusive off ers like the ELVIS 45: e Sapphire Collection, featuring a 2022 Graceland Annual Pass, limited-edition Elvis 45 records (which includes Jailhouse Rock and Suspicious Minds), a collectibles case and other exclusive items. graceland.com/elvis45
show report
Louisiana trails tell real stories
Louisiana is developing a series of ‘tourism trails’ that will enable visitors to delve into many of the iconic experiences associated with the state, such as music, civil rights and food.
New for 2022 is The Louisiana Music Trail, a suggested music-themed route that “will link key sites associated with the state’s musical history and musicians, live music venues, music festivals as well as select locations that enhance the Louisiana music story”.
Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser said he will be working with the Louisiana Office of Tourism on the trail, adding: “The Louisiana Music Trail will highlight our cultures and music genres that have influenced music around the world.”
Opened in Summer 2021, the Louisiana Civil Rights Trail tells the unique stories of the Civil Rights Movement, including a variety of ‘firsts’ that happened in Louisiana, such as the Baton Rouge Bus Boycott that inspired the famous Rosa Parks Montgomery boycott. All the stories can be found online at LouisianaCivilRightsTrail.com and markers are being installed across the state to commemorate these significant stories. And the Andouille (an•dou•ille) Trail is a culinary byway that extols the smoked sausage’s contribution to Louisiana cuisine, one that was born in the River Parishes with French and German culinary heritages. Because of the coarseness of the ground pork, Andouille is not considered a ‘sausage’ by locals. andouilletrail.
Getting high in North Carolina
One of North Carolina’s top attractions is to expand its visitor facilities in 2022.
Grandfather Mountain, close to the Blue Ridge Parkway, will open the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery in June.
The centre will be the focal point of a new Conservation Campus at the UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve and will double the size of the Grandfather Mountain Nature Museum which features gems, minerals, Native American artifacts and interactive exhibits and experiences that connect to the mountain’s 16 ecological communities.
Grandfather Mountain, a 5,946-foot/1,812-metre peak, is known for its walking trails, wildlife habitats and the Mile High Swinging Bridge.
The 11 trails on the mountain vary in difficulty, from strolls through gentle forests and woods to those across rugged peaks. The Grandfather Trail is one of the most rugged and technical hikes in the Eastern U.S. On the road to the summit are wildlife exhibits and picnic areas. Wildlife in the area includes black bear, river otters, cougars, bald eagle, and elk.
Grandfather Mountain is the highest peak on the eastern escarpment of the Blue Ridge Mountains, part the Appalachian Mountain chain. visitnc.com
Kansas City’s tasty BBQ app
Kansas City, Missouri, is the self-billed Barbecue (or BBQ) Capital of the USA and to help visitors experience some of the best eateries the city has launched The KC BBQ Experience app. It features 100+ regional restaurants and suggested ‘BBQ trails’. A traditional Kansas City sauce is a thick, molasses-based concoction of spicy and sweet flavors – and at many places diners may find pork, beef, chicken, salmon, lamb or even vegetarian options, such as jackfruit. visitKC.com/BBQ.
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IN BRIEF
• Major museum in Charleston
The International African American Museum is scheduled to open in Charleston, South Carolina in early 2022. The $92 million museum, genealogical center and memorial garden will explore and honor the history of African Americans on the very site where many can trace their family lineage. Nearly 50% of all the African slaves that came into the U.S. came through Charleston. iaamuseum.org
• New in New Orleans
One11 Hotel is t he first new hotel in New Orleans’ French Quarter in five decades. Located inside an ex-sugar factory in the 85-block area of the Vieux Carré, as the French Quarter is also known, One11 Hotel has 83 guest rooms and “sweets” that “pay homage to the building’s history”. one11hotel.com
• Louisville, 2022
Formed in 1965, Travel South is America’s oldest regional travel promotion organization. Travel South International Showcase will be held in Louisville, Kentucky, November 27-30. industry.travelsouthusa. com
Be Inspired 62 / Destination update
Washington State True to nature
Washington is an ideal escape for clients who like to combine natural beauty and urban escapes in one trip, says Jessica Pook
PIKE PLACE fARMERs MARKET, sEATTLE
HURRICANE RIDGE, OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK
Whether your clients want to work up a sweat hiking through one of Washington State’s national parks, such as North Cascades National Park and Olympic National Park, or their preference for enjoying the natural world involves a trip to a rural vineyard to sample some of the state’s crispest wine, there’s something for every pace.
Rejuvenating Nature
Here, visitors can explore rainforest and desert terrain, ski down the slopes of volcanic peaks or over one of the deepest lakes in the USA or spend their day bobbing in a kayak off the coast or drifting down a lazy river.
Each season has plenty to offer, with sunsoaked summers, picturesque autumnal colours, snow-covered peaks in the colder months and wildflower hikes in the spring.
For example, the most easily accessed mountain area within Olympic National Park is Hurricane Ridge, which at a mile high, offers unbeatable views of the surrounding park in clear weather.
The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center is a great place to start: stop here for brochures, maps, snacks, and touring tips.
Tasty Travels
After working up an appetite, visitors won’t have to look too far for something to soothe their hunger. Considering the state made coffee its official beverage in 2016, it’s recommended that visitors start the day with a steaming cup at one of Seattle’s many renowned coffee roasters.
Then, for lunch head to the source and let “farmer chefs” cook up their seasonal bounty fresh from the fields.
The rich and natural variety of the state feeds creative chefs and hungry travellers alike. Options include shucking oysters whilst riding the waves or sampling apples freshly plucked from an orchard full of different varietals.
THERE ARE MORE THAN 100 wINERIEs IN wAsHINGTON sTATE
Guests can look forward to culinary excellence at restaurants throughout the state’s cities or sipping world-class wine from Washington’s wine country.
Authentic Connections
While they are in Washington visitors should not miss discovering what really makes the state memorable – and that’s the people who live and work there yearround. Whether striking up a conversation with a fourth-generation farmer, watching the creative flare of an artist or musician who recently relocated to the state, or visiting one of the many cultural centres maintained by the Native Tribal Nations, it’s easy to see why people want to pass on their passion.
In short, people in Washington State care about the quality in what they do and are committed to preserving the natural wonder that surrounds them – and they want to share this appreciation with everyone they meet. •
Homegrown in Washington State
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Surrounded by natural beauty and the great outdoors, this northwest state offers a line-up of adventures, wineries, coastal areas, quirky towns and villages and more, says Jessica Pook
Bellingham
This coastal city near the Canadian border is surrounded by natural beauty, from the Salish Sea to Mt. Baker, a snowcapped volcano with ski runs. It is an area for outdoor adventures, with hiking and biking trails, while Bellingham Bay has several beaches. Head to the four-millionvolt Tesla coil at the Spark Museum of Electrical Invention or enjoy a farm-to-tableinspired meal with a craft brew. bellingham.org
Long Beach Peninsula
In the very southwest corner of Washington state, the peninsula features a 28-milelong silver-sand beach, state parks, a national historic park, a national wildlife refuge, rain forests, and a birding destination of international importance. Visitors can discover authentic villages with ultra-fresh seafood, craft beverages, art and music and unique places to stay. visitlongbeachpeninsula.com
Olympic Peninsula
This large arm of land in western Washington lies across Puget Sound from Seattle, which is an easy ferry ride away. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Olympic National Park, with its rugged mountains, mystical rainforests and wild Pacific Ocean beaches with their tidepools and sea stacks, then stop in a charming nearby small town to enjoy fresh Olympic Coast cuisine. olympicpeninsula.org
Walla Walla
In the state’s southeastern region this is wine country, with more than 120 wineries in the area. The town’s historic downtown offers award-winning farm-totable restaurants and boutique shopping, while the Walla Walla Valley, with its mild and dry climate, is home to some of Washington’s best golf courses: the Wine Valley Golf Club has been named among the top public courses in the country. wallawalla.org
Yakima Valley Craft Beer Trail
The Yakima Valley is at the heart of the craft beverage scene in the state’s northwest. Its hop growers, who fuel the world’s craft beer industry, produce a range of exciting, experimental hop varieties. There are more than 16 breweries and tap houses, while the annual Fresh Hop Ale Festival provides visitors the chance to raise a glass in the home of the hops. visityakima.com
Tri-Cities
For sun, fun and wine Washington’s Tri-Cities – Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland – have long been popular. Located in the Heart of Washington Wine Country®, the region is blessed by vineyards and over 200 wineries. The area’s waterways are a magnet for water lovers to enjoy sailing, power and pleasure boating, waterskiing, swimming, fishing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking and much more. visittri-cities.com
r Po t of Seattle cruise and stay
With unique attractions for pre- or post-cruise visits, there’s no shortage of fun and exciting family activities in Seattle, says Steve Hartridge
Acruise to Alaska’s scenic splendors from its number one gateway, Seattle, has become a bucket list holiday in its own right.
In 2022 – from April to October – seven major cruise lines will operate 200-plus seven-day round-trip sailings from their Seattle homeport. For cruisers extending their time, exploring walkable Seattle is something of a must-do.
Soar to the top of the city’s most famous landmark, the Space Needle, or explore beneath the streets in Pioneer Square to step back more than 100 years on an Underground Tour of original Seattle.
Pike Place Market
This 114-year-old farmers' market is known for locally-grown produce, handmade artisan crafts and speciality food shops. See flying fish tossed between fishmongers or check out the Gum Wall – a local landmark, the wall is covered in chewing gum – and Rachel the Pig, a bronze sculpture. Then grab a coffee at the city’s oldest Starbucks, which opened in 1971.
Waterfront Park
Seattle’s waterfront is transforming into an attractive expanse of tree-lined pedestrian walkways and cycle lanes with the removal of a viaduct that separated downtown from the harbour. Enjoy public art, entertainment and views of the bay and urban skyline. A new International Arrivals Facility will greet visitors upon their arrival in Seattle via British Airways, American, Virgin, Aer Lingus or Icelandair.
BOOKEND A STAY IN SEATTLE BEFORE OR AFTER A CRUISE TO ALASKA
Top Experiences
Space Needle: This iconic landmark offers superb vistas of the Cascade and Olympic Mountains, Elliott Bay and a 360-degree view of Seattle, with tilting glass benches leaning out over the city. spaceneedle.com Chilhuly Garden and Glass: Be inspired by glass artist Dale Chihuly’s innovation that comes to life. Immerse yourself in a world of curiosity, creativity and vibrant colour. chihulygardenandglass.com
Museum of Pop Culture
(MoPOP): Celebrate pop culture and its rock ‘n roll roots. Delve into hands-on experiences in the worlds of sci-fi, fantasy and music. Current exhibitions include Contact High: A Visual History of Hip-Hop. mopop.org Seattle Aquarium: Located along the waterfront, a 120,000-gallon (454,249 liters) exhibit of hundreds of types of Pacific Northwest sea life greets you, including otters, seals and octopus. seattleaquarium.org Sky View Observatory: Climb 73 stories in a matter of seconds to enjoy 360-degree views of Mt. Rainier, the Cascade and Olympic Mountains and Seattle in the tallest public viewing area in the Pacific Northwest. skyviewobservatory.com
New York City Empire State Building
Travel to the top of NYC’s most iconic marvel for exciting exhibits and breathtaking views any time of day. First, immerse yourself in our fascinating history with a walk through of our second-floor gallery. Explore interactive displays and join a self-guided tour to learn about our record-breaking construction, aweinspiring innovation and so much more (you might just come face to face with King Kong himself!)
Open-air observatory
Then, get some fresh air on our world-famous 86th floor open-air observatory, complete with sweeping 360° views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, and other can’t-miss sights.
Want to take it even higher? Head to the 102nd floor for scenery that stretches for 80 miles on a clear day.
For early birds or night owls, family fun or romantic dates, there’s a perfect experience for everyone at the Empire State Building.
Empire State Building Observatory experience
The new and exciting Empire State Building Observatory experience is located on the second floor of the international icon, and the 10,000 sq. ft galleries invite guests on a journey from the building’s construction to its current place in pop culture.
Named the most Instagrammed U.S. landmark in a study by Sony Mobile, the new galleries feature immersive and interactive exhibits that fulfill the desire of today’s modern traveler to share authentic experiences – all as they make their way to the one-of-a-kind views from the 86th Floor Observatory. Get your tickets today! Contact sales@esbonyc.com to book your group visit today. For more information, visit esbnyc.com
