44 minute read
Route 66: Why Oklahoma is the central star of this famous road trip
Selling the USA 44 / Route 66
Mother of all Road trips
America’s most famous road, gearing up for its 100th birthday celebrations, is best experienced by planning an itinerary that includes several nights in Oklahoma, says Peter Ellegard
Driving Route 66 in its entirety is an unfulfi lled dream of mine. However, I have had my kicks on Route 66 along various sections in Illinois, Oklahoma, Texas and California, besides paying homage to where the fabled road begins and ends – marked by commemorative signs by the Art Institute of Chicago and on Santa Monica Pier.
Sampling it in small chunks, I have savoured its enduring appeal, historic landmarks and memorable attractions.
For example, the saloon-style Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, Texas serves up gigantic 72-ounce steaks and anyone downing the whole meal inside an hour eats for free. I resist the challenge but one fellow diner succeeds, earning himself a certifi cate and undoubtedly severe indigestion.
At Shamrock, Texas, I encounter the delightful, pink Conoco Tower Station, the only Art Deco petrol station on Route 66.
I stay in several roadside motels along the Mother Road in Texas and in Oklahoma, where I drive from Tulsa to Oklahoma City. And in California, I follow the fi nal section from desert town Barstow, strolling the fi nal few yards on Santa Monica’s venerable pier.
After those appetisers I’m now ready for the main course
Route 66, otherwise known as the Mother Road, turns 100 on November 11, 2026 – but preparations to mark the centennial are already well under way.
And new road trip itineraries are being launched ahead of an expected surge in interest as the spotlight increasingly focuses on the historic route.
Nowhere is that more the case than in Oklahoma, which has the road’s longest driveable section of any state and where it has its roots.
The now legendary road came about thanks to Tulsa, Oklahoma, businessman Cyrus Avery, who successfully lobbied for a highway between Chicago and Los Angeles via Oklahoma as the Model T Ford was opening up driving to the masses.
Called the Main Street of America by Avery, Route 66 linked small towns and big cities in America’s heartland, spawning weird and wonderful roadside attractions to tempt travellers to stop, many of which still exist.
Illinois to California
Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, the route spans three time zones
ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/ TREKANDSHOOT
Selling the USA Route 66 / 45
There are Three rouTe 66 museums in oklahoma, including The oklahoma rouTe 66 museum in clinTon (lefT) and The naTional rouTe 66 and TransporTaTion museum in elk ciTy (righT)
Big Texan sTeak ranch in amarillo diner sTops are availaBle enrouTe
and eight states – Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California – and stretches almost 2,500 miles, more than 400 of them in Oklahoma.
The advent of fast interstate highways bypassing the long and winding road signalled its apparent death knell and Route 66 was decommissioned in 1985. But its spirit was kept alive by enthusiasts, local administrations and businesses, a renaissance that saw Route 66 museums and more attractions popping up celebrating its glory days and motoring history.
The momentum is growing. Among planned events, the Illinois State Museum in Springfield is to stage a special exhibition commemorating the road’s 100th anniversary in 2026.
Oklahoma
A nine-day festival of classic cars, historic memorabilia, music and food, the inaugural AAA Route 66 Fest was held in Oklahoma City and Tulsa in June 2022 with plans to stage it each year up to the centennial.
More festivities are also in the pipeline in the run-up to the big day. Meanwhile, efforts in Oklahoma include renewing Route 66 signage and neon lighting along the road as well as projects to renovate Route 66 motels.
Driving the entire route typically takes around two and a half weeks, but fresh flydrive options are being introduced to allow visitors to take things at a leisurely pace.
Oklahoma Tourism is working with ATI on itineraries that break the route into two – a 16-day eastern journey that starts in Chicago and finishes in Grapevine, Texas, with flights from Dallas, and an 18-day western drive from Grapevine to Santa Monica.
The eastern drive allows seven nights in Oklahoma while the western option includes four nights, giving time to explore beyond Route 66 and delve into the state’s Native American culture, Western heritage and natural attractions.
A 21-day full Route 66 itinerary includes four nights in Oklahoma.
Matt Bates, UK, Northern Ireland and Ireland Destination Awareness Manager for the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, said that a number of tour operators were already including the hybrid east and west itineraries with their offerings and the full route option was available for them to tailor.
rouTe 66 is a favouiTe amongsT classic car enThusiasTs
Car rental
First Class Holidays Product Manager Brian Hawe said that while one-way car rental had been an issue for a while, the operator was now seeing availability for rentals from Chicago to Los Angeles, and there was demand for the route.
He added: “Historically it was the one-way fees that were a barrier to sales but we can now see those included in the rental cost, so while the customer is still paying for it, it’s something that’s been included in the overall cost when they book, and not something perceived to come out of the holiday money.
Speaking of the upcoming anniversary Hawe predicts an added interest when the centenary promotions start.
Where to book it
FIRST CLASS HOLIDAYS
A 17-night Historic Route 66 fly-drive from Chicago to Los Angeles including a twonight extension in Oklahoma costs from £2829pp including international flights, accommodation and 18 days’ car rental with unlimited mileage, zero excess and no oneway drop fee. fcholidays.com •
Selling the USA 46 / City profile
Oklahoma City The Modern Frontier
A warm welcome awaits in Oklahoma City. A place that embraces diversity and is open to all
In Oklahoma City (OKC) you’ll be greeted with the warmest of welcomes before discovering the heritage and culture of a city that embraces the modern world whilst still remembering its frontier roots.
A bright future
Oklahoma City is known as the Modern Frontier – and it is rich with opportunity and seasoned with character. It is a ‘yes city’ that actively makes things happen.
Its collaborative and energetic vision has transformed OKC over the past several decades, with nearly $2 billion invested in building world-class attractions, sports venues, urban parks and a new convention center complex. And they’re not done yet!
For two successive years OKC has been named the number 1 city in the nation for street art by USA Today.
From alleyways filled with rotating murals to sculptures adorning bridges and parks, the city’s street art scene offers plenty of Instagrammable moments while also showcasing its culture and creative talent – just one of many unexpected things to discover about Oklahoma City.
If it’s curated cuisine you crave, OKC is a hub for innovative chefs and locally owned
First americans museum BimBo Bakeries mural shines Bright in the city centre
restaurant groups that have cultivated a thriving food scene where flavor and gastronomic creativity has few limits.
Making history
This is also where authentic Western heritage meets thriving modern metropolis. True to its frontier roots, Oklahoma City embodies the Modern Frontier and is where a spirit of adventure fuses with a down-to-earth approach.
Every destination has a story, and Oklahoma City’s own story began with the several tribal nations which inhabited this special land long before it was ‘officially’ designated a city.
This complex past has led to OKC residents embracing a history of doing things their own way – which has resulted in a visionary passion that is evident today in its people and entrepreneurial spirit. From the classically trained to the wildly inventive, the city is home to pioneering thinkers, doers and creators.
To really get the best out of a visit to Oklahoma City, be sure to linger awhile.
Or as the city says: “Discover those fresh perspectives and flavours that await you, and let the city and its people welcome you to the Modern Frontier.”
Top Experiences
The First Americans Museum: This museum tells the collective histories of the 39 tribes of Oklahoma. It showcases exhibitions in history, culture and art; features live public and educational programs and has a full-service restaurant
Floating DoWn the BrickWater Water taXi canal
Selling the USA City profile / 47
neW Bike Park Due to DeBut in 2023
the neW conVention center comPleX Was comPleteD in 2020
presenting unique Native-inspired cuisine. Buy Native-made and artisan wares in the well-stocked gift shop. famok.org Best of Bricktown: Bricktown Entertainment District is the go-to place for nightlife, dining and fun. Enjoy the sights along the mile-long Bricktown Canal on a Bricktown Water Taxi.
Bricktown is also home to the American Banjo Museum, where you’ll see more than 400 beautiful instruments and rotating exhibits. Located at the south end of Bricktown, the Oklahoma Land Run Monument features 45 of the world’s largest bronze sculptures. bricktownokc.com
The Blessed Stanley Rother
Shrine: The Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine, which is expected in 2023, will be a resource for the Catholic archdiocese of Oklahoma City and a beacon of faith to people around the world. Blessed Stanley Rother was the fi rst martyr from the U.S. and the fi rst U.S.-born priest to be beatifi ed. The shrine, built in dedication to him, is designed in the Spanish mission style. rothershrine.org
Oklahoma Trailhead and Bike
Park (coming soon): Slated to open in Spring 2023, the Oklahoma Trailhead and Bike Park at RIVERSPORT expansion will include a new bike plaza, an outdoor classroom, a community garden, and play area, as well as paved parking. Shipping containers will be used to create a unique gathering place that includes a welcome center, a nature center, and ADA restrooms. visitokc.com •
instagrammaBle street art
Selling the USA 48 / Destination update
What’s new in Las Vegas
Stuart Forster visits Las Vegas and discovers plenty of new reasons why agents should recommend the city to clients in 2023
a Giant Las VeGas siGn weLcomes Visitors
Vegas is constantly evolving: an ever-flowing stream of new shows, hotels and restaurants are part of the fabric in a destination which deserves its ‘Entertainment Capital of the World’ tag.
Key developments include the opening of the MSG Sphere, which is anticipated in the second half of 2023. The 20,000-capacity entertainment venue at The Venetian is the world’s largest spherical structure. Featuring a brandable exterior, it will host both residencies and sporting events.
Motorsports fans are likely to be interested in visiting from November 16-18, when the roar of Formula 1 engines will reverberate on the Strip during the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix.
In 2021 Resorts World Las Vegas became the first resort to open on the Strip in more than a decade. It houses three hotels; the 1,496-room Conrad Las Vegas, the 1,774room Hilton plus the upscale Crockfords Las Vegas with 236 rooms and suites. In 2023 the resort’s 5,000-seat theatre will see residencies by performers including Katy Perry, Carrie Underwood and David Blaine.
Top experiences for 2023
Take an Allegiant Stadium tour: Las Vegas’s state-of-the-art stadium opened in the summer of 2020. Up to 65,000 fans can view concerts by artists such as Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran or attend (American football games. Both the Las Vegas Raiders (NFL) and University of Nevada Las Vegas Rebels play their home fixtures in the climate-controlled stadium.
Guided tours, peppered with facts, figures and anecdotes, present the chance to step inside the Raiders’ locker room.
Guides explain how the grass playing surface is rolled into the arena before each Raiders game. In February 2024 the stadium will host the Super Bowl – the NFL’s showpiece game. allegiantstadium.com
Enjoy immersive art and
entertainment at AREA15: Not to be confused with Nevada’s secretive Area 51, AREA15 is located west of the Strip next to Interstate 15. The warehouse-like premises host a range of activities, including axe throwing, indoor golf and the zip line-like roller-glider, Haley’s Comet. Virtual Reality experiences are also offered at this quirky attraction which opened in 2020.
Works by more than 250 artists are showcased. Guests don 3D glasses to view the psychedelic art within Wink World, created by Blue Man Group co-founder Chris Wink. Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart may initially look like a supermarket but concealed entrances soon reveal immersive stories and a hidden cocktail bar.
Outside, Liftoff revolves at a height of 120ft while presenting views over Vegas and its surroundings. Later, AREA15 takes on a club-like vibe, with the Lost Spirits Distillery offering burlesque. area15.com
new York-new York hoteL and casino
Selling the USA Destination update / 49
skyline views from the Allē lounge on 66 the Venetian on the Las VeGas strip
paris Las VeGas hoteL and casino
Ride the Vegas Loop: The Vegas Loop is a transport system offering passengers rides in Tesla cars. The tunnel system was excavated by Elon Musk’s The Boring Company as a low-cost solution to urban congestion.
Initially, it offered a quick and easy way of getting between the South, Central and North Halls of the sprawling Las Vegas Convention Center. In the summer of 2022, the Loop was extended to Resorts World Las Vegas.
Priced at just $3.50, day passes offer unlimited rides on a system that looks set for expansion. The vision is for the Vegas Loop to run for 29 miles between 51 stations, connecting resorts along the Strip with Harry Reid International Airport (formerly known as McCarran International Airport) and points of interest. lvloop.com/tickets Experience the outdoors: Packing outdoor gear when visiting Vegas offers the chance to enjoy the surrounding countryside for a complete contrast.
Hiking trails cut through the rugged Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, which is highly rated by rock climbers, 17 miles west of the Strip.
Wild horses and donkeys roam the arid landscape, which can be explored on guided equestrian tours, while mountain biking and during a scenic 13-mile drive on a back country byway.
Day trips bring opportunities to view the Grand Canyon’s spectacular geology. The glass-floored Grand Canyon Skywalk, a two-hour drive from Las Vegas, presents dramatic vistas of the west rim’s Eagle Point.
The epic scale and story behind the Hoover Dam’s construction make a guided tour of the hydropower plant worth combining with a Grand Canyon excursion. pinkadventuretours.com Dine in Downtown Las Vegas: Lip Smacking Foodie Tours offers several guided tours of the city, including a 2.5-hour introduction to the resurgent Downtown district. Affordable rents mean a peppering of restaurants by up-andcoming chefs. lipsmackingfoodietours.com.
The Downtown district is where Las Vegas started. The Golden Gate hotel and casino opened in 1906 in an area formerly nicknamed ‘Glitter Gulch’ due to its shimmering signs. Several are now displayed in The Neon Museum Las Vegas.
The Mob Museum tells the story of organised crime and its role in Las Vegas’s evolution. It occupies the former courthouse and post office building used in 1950 to question witnesses about criminal involvement in gambling. The cellar hosts a speakeasy-style bar.
Drinks are also served at bars along the Fremont Street Experience, a vibrant pedestrianised zone whose arching roof doubles as the world’s biggest video screen. Spectators gather for hourly shows from 18.00 until 02.00. vegasexperience.com •
the BellAgio hotel is fAmous for its wAter show
Book it with... Newmarket Holidays
A 10-day Hollywood, Vegas and the Grand Canyon trip is priced from £1,870pp. It includes four nights in Las Vegas and a sunrise tour of the Grand Canyon. newmarketholidays.co.uk
Selling the USA 50 / My journey: Nevada
Nevada's super Highway
Beyond the twinkling lights of Las Vegas, The Great Basin Highway provides a sense of solitude and a glimpse into Nevada’s past, says Rashmi Narayan
Amidst Joshua trees and ‘Adopt a Highway’ signs, jagged peaks give way to mesas and lakes. There are whistling sand dunes that rise up to 800 feet, occasional hot springs and soaring mountains.
There are signs of abandoned towns, deserted settlements that once were fi lled with houses, schools, saloons, hotels and general stores but were left to deteriorate amidst the tumbleweeds after the nineteenth century mineral rush. An hour out of Las Vegas, where vast solar panels are strewn across the desert, an F16 soars overhead, breaking the silence.
Driving along the Great Basin Highway, the lonely road in the eerie wilderness looks straight out of a movie set, with mountains skirting either side of the road.
As the elevation goes up, the Joshua trees disappear and juniper shrubs are in abundance. There is barely any phone network and the few gas stations there are quickly fade into the distance.
The town of Ely, which began as a Pony Express outpost and 1900s copper mining centre, is a key juncture and where the Great Basin Highway and the so-called Loneliest Road in America (Route 50) come together.
The latter heads out west towards Reno and Lake Tahoe and is the gateway to ghost towns, historic mining communities, state parks, recreational opportunities, and a handful of authenticity-packed 'Sagebrush Saloons', essentially a historic watering hole and a term used only in Nevada.
You can stop off in towns like Caliente, to admire the railroads, Art Deco buildings and wildfl owers or use it as a base to explore some of the nearby state parks nearby.
Between Caliente and Panacea is the distinctive Cathedral Gorge State Park, sonamed owing to its mystical landscape and spectacular slot canyons. Walking past these terracotta-coloured cliff s it feels like I am on the surface of another planet.
Years of geological activity in the region led to lakeshore and land erosion where the park stands today. The rippled formations of clay visible throughout the slot canyons are layers of ash that were dispersed due to wind, sand and the volcanoes. "You’re standing in what is a part of the Caliente Caldera Complex where many volcanoes erupted in this area millions of years ago,' Dawn Andone, a park ranger at Cathedral Gorge tells me.
“Give these rocks a knock and you will see that they are hollow as they are formed from siltstone and not sandstone.
“We have 10 miles of trail in this park designated for hiking and mountain biking,”
Other state parks nearby such as KershawRyan and Cave Lake deserve to be high on every adventurer's list. There are alpine trails, scenic spots for swimming and the parks are surrounded by indigenous fl ora.
If there’s time to explore only one state park within an hour from Las Vegas, then Valley of Fire is a good bet.
This deep red, picturesque gem has served as a backdrop for fi lms such as Transformers, Con Air, Total Recall and Star Trek. Its fi ery Aztec Sandstone façade glows when the sun is out and some of the rocks display petroglyphs that are over 2,000 years old.
Selling the USA My journey: Nevada / 51
Time to explor e only one state park? Vall ey of Fir e is a good bet. I spot some of the local wildlife: antelope squirrels, lizards and rattlesnakes. Within Great Basin National Park lies Lehman Caves with stalactites, stalagmites and fl owstone formations.
Stargazing trains
As we pull out of Ely on Nevada Northern Railway’s Great Basin Star Train, it takes just a few minutes for the dark sky to unfold between the mountains. There are few nearby towns and no light pollution on this extraordinary steam train journey through rural Nevada’s rocky landscape.
The best seats are in the open-air carriage, where I sit back and enjoy the star-studded evening accompanied by commentary from a local astronomer.
This is a popular experience and tickets tend to sell out well in advance – but there are other similar evening train journeys such as the Sunset, Stars and Champagne Train that can be booked via the Nevada Northern Railway’s website.
Toughest town in the Old West
Along the Great Basin Highway, 180 miles northeast of Las Vegas and hanging on the side of a mountain in Nevada’s high desert, is the town of Pioche. There is a sign at a derelict cinema that reads ‘The Toughest Town in the Old West’ due to its past history of Wild West encounters and gunfi ghts.
“The spirits here want everyone to know that this is their place,” says the receptionist at the Overland Hotel, which not only has a Sagebrush Saloon downstairs but also is said to be most haunted. I do not encounter anything supernatural, but other hotel guests claim they heard footsteps and saw lights in the bedroom fl icker in the night.
Pioche's Boot Hill Cemetery featuries its own ‘murderers’ row’ of outlaw graves.
Small stones encircle each grave, with their wooden slabs, worn-out leathery cowboy boots and hand-etched epitaphs. One reads: 'Shot during dispute over dog.'
Culture club
One of the biggest art projects in the world is taking shape in Nevada. Michael Heizer’s monumental work titled City began 50 years ago in the Great Basin and is still ongoing. The installations span over a mile and half and the structures are made from concrete, sand and rocks. Located an hour west of Pioche, the art exhibit opened in late 2022.
The California Gold Rush (1848) saw many Basques emigrate to the U.S. and Basque shepherds settling in the mountainous regions of Idaho, California and Nevada, developing a tradition of family style dining. Today the Basque infl uence is evident in northern Nevada in restaurants in towns such as Reno, Winnemucca, Elko and Ely. •
Book it with... America as you like it
An 11-day Experience Nevada fl y-drive tour departing from Las Vegas includes a trip to Ely via the Loneliest Road in America and Lehman Caves in Great Basin National Park. Prices start at £1,095pp. americaasyoulikeit.com
Selling the USA 52 / Spotlight on
Big energy in New Orleans
Experience more than 300 years’ worth of stories, celebrations and one-of-a-kind culture in New Orleans, Louisiana, says Jessica Pook
All-singing, all-dancing New Orleans is never short of energy and atmosphere. From swaying brass bands to soulful singers to French flare, this city knows how to party – and everyone is invited.
Feel the music
Live music permeates and enriches everyday life in the city. Several musical genres – from traditional jazz to zydeco to rock and the blues – can be found here on street corners, in music venues and at world-renowned festivals.
New Orleans is the self-proclaimed birthplace of jazz. For the ultimate jazz experience, head to Preservation Hall to enjoy a traditional live jazz band. Enjoy big brassy sounds in all their glory with an intimate performance and learn about the historic venue.
Celebrated cuisine
New Orleans’ rich history and cocktail culture have resulted in the city becoming one of the most legendary places to dine in the world. With hundreds of restaurants to choose from, culinary adventures span a wide array of cuisines and atmospheres.
French influence is prominent on many menus but other must-tries include the famous sugary beignets, flavourful jambalaya and steaming gumbo.
a fusion of latin, french, african and american
creole-inspired dishes Burst with spices – and flavour Jamnola - ‘Joy, art & music’ passing Brass Bands are a common sight in new orleans
Award-winning attractions
Get inspired by award-winning museums with subjects ranging from Mardi Gras to World War II. Dive into the city’s rich history with a modern twist at Sazerac House Museum (and then enjoy a cocktail), sign up for interactive story telling with 360-degree views at Vue Orleans, or immerse yourself in a cultural funhouse at JAMNOLA.
A city of festivity
With over 100 festivals each year there’s a celebration for everything and everyone in New Orleans. The city is home to so many fascinating festivals year-round that celebrate fabulous food, innovative music and cultural diversity.
The most famous celebration is Mardi Gras, each February, with parades, costumes and signature beaded necklaces decorating every balcony.
Be sure to check out the city’s festival line-up before planning a visit.•
Selling the USA 54 / Introducing
Twin-centre Florida
Daytona Beach and Central Florida make an ideal two-centre pairing for clients wanting a Sunshine State holiday with some different twists, says Peter Ellegard
Daytona InternatIonal SpeeDway
ELLEGARD PETER best place for... art: Museum of Arts and Sciences Nature: Halifax River culture: Lakeland’s Historic and Antique District eNtertaiNmeNt: LEGOLAND architecture: Hollis Garden beach: New Smyrna Beach
ELLEGARD PETER
freSh cItruS from rIDge ISlanD groveS In central florIDa
the SIngIng tower at Bok tower garDenS take In the vIewS from ponce De leon Inlet lIghthouSe Suggest a twin-centre holiday combining Daytona Beach and Central Florida to clients and it may well conjure up images of an actionpacked break full of racing cars and theme park thrill rides.
Yet the two destinations both offer altogether gentler sides of the state that soothes the senses and provides a calm respite for body and mind.
Dreamy Daytona
Set on Florida’s east coast, Daytona Beach is just an hour by road from theme park capital Orlando. It is known as “The World’s Most Famous Beach” because its hardpacked sands were where pioneering motoring enthusiasts held car races and speed record attempts in the early years of the last century.
You can still drive on some sections of the beach alongside lapping waves, although the maximum speed is 10mph.
Slower still is a beach cruiser bike. Cyclists can pedal along much of the 23 miles of the Daytona Beach area’s golden sands, skirting the Atlantic tideline, weaving around families relaxing or playing on the beach, and riding under its famous pier and past bronzed lifeguards keeping watch from their lookout posts.
Time to pick up the pace? Speedlovers can get their thrills at the Daytona International Speedway, spectating at one of its high-octane races or enjoying a NASCAR experience driving or being driven on the tri-oval circuit in a racing car. Or stay at adjacent motoring-themed hotel The Daytona and take a VIP tour that includes a leisurely bus ride around its banked track and a visit to the Archives and Research Centre to see exhibits including famous winning racing cars and impressive trophies.
For a break from lazing on the beaches, take a laid-back sailing cruise from Ponce
Selling the USA Introducing / 55
legolanD IS perfect for younger famIlIeS
See reScueD turtleS at marIne ScIence centre
Inlet, at the southern end of Daytona Beach. Among craft operating half-day cruises is 50-foot catamaran Arabella, which sails along the sheltered Halifax River and out into the Atlantic, with the opportunity to see dolphins and other wildlife before anchoring on a sandbank for a paddle in the shallow, clear waters.
Towering over the area at 175 feet high is Florida’s tallest lighthouse, the 135-year-old Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse. Although still operating, you can climb its 203 steps for panoramic views and visit the museum it forms part of. Close by is the family-friendly Marine Science Centre, featuring a touch pool and the area’s only turtle hospital and seabird rehabilitation facility.
The Smithsonian-affiliated Museum of Arts and Sciences in Daytona Beach features major collections of American and Cuban art and one of the largest collections of Coca-Cola memorabilia, a children’s museum and a planetarium.
Foodies should savour breakfast on the terrace of The Shores Resort & Spa at Daytona Beach Shores or sample treats such as bacon and crisps covered in chocolate at Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory in downtown Daytona Beach.
Central Florida’s small town feel
Bok Tower Gardens in Central Florida’s Lake Wales was one of Florida’s first attractions, opening in 1929 and attracting 23 million
peDDle the SanDy ShoreS of Daytona Beach
visitors since then. It comprises 157 acres of lush gardens, with the soaring Singing Tower and its 60-bell carillon at its heart, mirrored in a reflecting pool. A must on a visit to the gardens is the 20-room Mediterranean-style mansion, El Retiro, originally built as a winter home by a steel magnate.
Lakeland is Central Florida’s largest city but has a friendly, small town feel. Walk the promenade at Lake Mirror Park or take in colourful displays at Hollis Garden, a formal botanical garden with neo-Classical architecture containing flowers, ornamental shrubs and native trees.
Antique shops, art galleries, museums restaurants and bars abound in Lakeland’s downtown Historic and Antique District. Don’t miss the First Friday Celebration held monthly in Munn Park, featuring local artisans and market stalls.
For breakfast cook up your own pancakes on the griddle at De Leon Springs State Park’s Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant, then take a tour of a citrus grove at Ridge Island Groves in Haines City and then tuck into smoothies made from fresh fruits. And for fine dining with a Latin American flavour, samba down to Nineteen61 in Lakeland.
Central Florida has its own theme parks, too. The world’s first Peppa Pig Theme Park opened last year just a few steps away from LEGOLAND in Winter Haven.
Accommodation options include vacation villas with private swimming pools at Balmoral Resort in Haines City and Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins, one of the region’s newest resorts, in Auburndale, that offers a tiki bar, firepits, resort pool, entertainment stage and children’s playground.
A chilled Daytona Beach and Central Florida twin centre may not be the Sunshine State holiday your clients are familiar with, but it’s a winning combination. •
ELLEGARD PETER
Book it with... Gold Medal Travel
A 10-night Daytona Beach and Central Florida two-centre stay costs from £1,799pp and includes Virgin Atlantic flights to and from Orlando International Airport, seven nights in a villa at the Bahama Bay Resort on Lake Davenport in Kissimmee and three nights at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort plus fully-inclusive Alamo car hire. goldmedal.co.uk
Selling the USA 56 / Destination update
State of Washington True to Nature
The State of Washington offers new adventures for people who love natural beauty, urban escapes and everything in between
explore Wild CoasTal paThs
hike amongsT WildfloWers in spring
Washington state is where big city meets big nature. Clients can hike, ski, or sail and enjoy dinner and a show in the same day. Or just slow down and take time to savour all that the state has to offer.
Rejuvenating nature
With three national parks, hundreds of state parks, mountains, lakes and rivers, beaches and wineries, Washington’s diverse terrain means that no two days have to be the same.
Whether clients want to work up a sweat hiking through one of its beautiful national parks or lay back and watch the waves lap against the shore, the State of Washington allows for a mixture of both relaxation and high energy adventure.
Tasty travels
The state made coffee its official beverage in 2016 so starting the day with a frothy cup is a must. Then take time to shuck
TerTulia Cellars in Walla Walla
oysters whilst overlooking the ocean or sample apples straight from the orchard.
Savor culinary excellence at restaurants in the cities or sip world-class wine from wine country (Washington is the second-largest producing wine state in the U.S.).
Also, experience locally-grown produce at a farm-to-table feast where ‘farmer chefs deliver up their seasonal bounty.
Authentic connections
Don’t miss discovering what really makes this place special – the people.
Whether you strike up a conversation with a fourth-generation farmer or an upcoming artist, or you visit one of the many cultural centers maintained by the Native Tribal Nations throughout the state, you’ll come across a common love of this place and respect for what makes it great.
People in Washington care about preserving the natural wonder that surrounds them, and often want to share this appreciation with everyone they meet – so share your experiences with Washingtonians throughout your visit.
What’s new
The transformation of its downtown waterfront is introducing a whole new side of Seattle to visitors. Elegant, landscaped walkways and cycling paths are fresh ways to enjoy the city where it meets the stunning waters of Puget Sound.
Throughout February, guests who stay at participating downtown hotels in Seattle can receive half-price admission to many museums that include the Museum of Pop Culture, Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI). •
Book it with... Audley Travel
A 15-day USA Pacific Northwest self-drive tour is priced from £4,520pp including flights and accommodation. Clients will stop in Seattle, Cannon Beach, Portland, and explore Mount Rainer. audleytravel.com
Must vis it
Selling the USA Six of the best / 57
State of Washington
From skiing down volcanic peaks to crossing vineyards on horseback to kayaking the shoreline, there’s never a dull moment in Washington State, says Jessica Pook
Washington Wine Country
Located in the sundrenched southeastern corner of Washington state, the Tri-Cities of Kennewick, Pasco and Richland offer over 200 wineraries and vinyards. Enjoy wine country getaways with horseback riding through vineyards or outdoor adventures on the Columbia River. And of course, no trip would be complete without sampling the produce with a wine tasting. visittri-cities.com
Longbeach peninsula
The perfect place for natureenthusiasts, Longbeach Peninsula is home to a 28-mile-long silver-sand beach, a number of leafy state parks, a national historic park, a national wildlife refuge, and a birding destination of international importance. Discover authentic villages, fresh seafood caught that day, craft beverages, art and live music. visitlongbeachpeninsula.com
Walla Walla
With more than 120 wineries, many of which are awardwinning and a surge of farm-totable restaurants, Walla Walla has established itself as a foodie destination with locally grown and organic produce a menu staple. Add to this a historic downtown with boutique shopping and you have a relaxed luxury holiday in a rural setting – all within a scenic drive or a quick flight from Seattle. wallawalla.org
Olymic Peninsula
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Olympic National Park renowned for its diverse ecosystems, rugged mountains, mystical rainforests and wild Pacific Ocean beaches. You can even bathe in a hot spring pool. Discover the charm of nearby small towns such as Port Townsend or Port Ludlow and enjoy fresh Olympic Coast seafood. It’s all just a ferry ride away from Seattle. olympicpeninsula.org
Bellingham
Located between Seattle and Vancouver, this charming town pairs urban amenities with unbeatable outdoor recreation. Mt. Baker invites skiers with its snow capped volcanic peaks whilst surfers and swimmers head to the sandy shores of Bellingham Bay. Whether clients are looking for a rugged outdoor adventure or a relaxing seaside escape, they’ll find it in Bellingham. bellingham.com
Visit Mt St Helens
Embrace a slower pace of life with a visit to Cowlitz County, located, 55 minutes off I-5 Exit 49. The town is known for its hospitality, unique shops, restaurants, micro-brews and has plenty of accommodations for those that want to stay a little longer. Be sure to visit Mt St Helens National Volcanic Monument which has spectacular vistas and hiking trails. visitmtsthelens.com
Selling the USA 58 / Show report
Travel SouTh
Bluegrass state puts on a show
Travel South International Showcase in Kentucky provided plenty of updates for the tourism industry. Sally Parker rounds up the news from the show
Travel South International Showcase (TSI), the annual trade convention that showcases tourism offerings across 12 southern states – Arkansas, Missouri, Louisiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia – held its 10th event in Kentucky late last year.
The show, which hosted 397 delegates, including 107 buyers representing 16 countries, was hailed as “a huge success” by Mike Mangeot,Commissioner at Kentucky Department of Tourism, who praised the the team at Travel South USA and Louisville Tourism for putting the best of the South in the shop window.
He said: “For many delegates this was their first-time visiting Kentucky and we were so pleased to introduce them to our beautiful state, which we consider the front porch of the South.
“Following the showcase we hosted three multi-day FAM tours to explore communities and attractions across Kentucky. From small towns such as Georgetown, Berea and Bardstown to our larger metro areas of Bowling Green, Covington and Lexington, these FAMS allowed our guests to experience our authentic Kentucky artists, bourbon and destinations first-hand, which is one of the benefits of hosting Travel South.
Mangeot said: “The relationships and impressions made at TSI will go a long way toward generating interest in visiting Kentucky and the Southern U.S., among both our international trade partners and future travellers.”
This year’s TSI will be held in Memphis, Tennessee, from December 3-7.
BA adds new lift to Kentucky
Travel South’s host state Kentucky was keen to highlight the new British Airways non-stop service between London Heathrow and Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport which is due to commence in June.
The five-times-a-week service will be operated by a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner.
Mike Mangeot,Commissioner at Kentucky Department of Tourism, said: “2023 is shaping up to be a very good year for tourism in Kentucky. We obviously are not back to pre-pandemic levels of international visitation but will look to rebound and, hopefully, exceed those figures – and BA’s new flight here will assist us in that.”
In Kentucky, visitors can take in new attractions such as Louisville Slugger’s new distillery experience, Barrels and Billets; the Original KFC Café and Museum, which has reopened following renovations; or stay in the soon-to-open Discotel located in the former site of a disco ball factory. kentuckytourism.com
NEWS IN BRIEF
• Charleston looks back
The International African American Museum is due to open in Charleston, South Carolina. early this year. Its nine galleries will demonstrate how enslaved Africans and free blacks shaped economic, political, and cultural development throughout the nation and beyond, while offering an especially close look at the connection to the state’s Lowcountry. iaamuseum.org
• Missouri covers tracks
The newly-opened Shepherd Mountain Bike Park, in the Arcadia Valley, Missouri, includes five trails with granite rock features and is located near some of Missouri’s popular state parks, including Elephant Rocks and Johnson’s Shut-Ins. It’s said to feature “some of the most steep, technical and gnarly riding anywhere between the Appalachians and the Rockies.” shepherdmountainmo.com
• Tupelo embraces the King
Hotel Tupelo opened in Mississippi in February 2022. The boutique hotel has 79 rooms featuring two premier suites - the first suite is appropriately called the King’s Suite and includes Elvis-themed photos, books, and decor. It is within walking distance of the hardware store where Elvis bought his first guitar. hoteltupelo.com
Musical Tennessee
Selling the USA Long weekend in / 59
Walk in the footsteps of music icons past and present on this journey from Nashville to Memphis, says Jessica Pook
Day 1-2: Nashville is Country Music Central
Day 1: Start a visit to Nashville with some country music education at The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, which follows the journey of musicians from the likes of Taylor Swift to Shania Twain. A highlight is a tour of the historic RCA Studio B, known as the birthplace of the ‘Nashville sound’. Stand where Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and others recorded.
After a whistle-stop tour it’s time for some live music with a visit to Nashville’s most famous strip – Broadway. With flashing neon signs and music blasting out of every window, Broadway is the home of country music and an evening spent hopping from one honky tonk bar to another is a must. Day 2: After a late night of great music and food kickstarting the day with coffee in a leafy neighbourhood is just the ticket. 12 South is the place to window shop and admire historic homes whilst The Gulch is home to lifesized murals, boutique hotels and trendy restaurants. But back to the music! Take a tour of the inspirational new National Museum of African American Music before seeing a show at the Grand Ole Opry, a Nashville right of passage. The weekly concert offers the chance to see both country legends and rising stars. Or book tickets to The Listening Room Café for an intimate evening with some of Nashville’s songwriters.
Book it with... Newmarket holidays A nine-day Elvis Presley’s Memphis, Nashville and New Orleans trip includes two nights in Memphis staying at the Guest House at Graceland, tours of Graceland and Sun Studios and time spent in Nashville, priced from £1,819pp. newmarketholidays.co.uk
country muSic hall of fame, naShville
naShville’S lively Broadway Strip
BlueS cluBS on Beale Street
Sun Studio, memphiS, where elviS recorded
Day 3-4: Singing the blues in Memphis
Day 3: Drive three hours west of Nashville and stop in Memphis, a city that is not the best known but should be a must for any music fans.
Get acquainted on a Memphis Mojo Tour, guided by a professional Beale Street musician, and then head to unassuming Sun Studio, which is where a young Elvis Presley began his music career.
Learn the history of the studio and stand in the spot where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded.
At the Peabody Hotel, watch the famous daily Peabody Duck March. Twice a day the Duckmaster escorts the hotel’s resident ducks to and from the lobby fountain. It’s a tradition that has been going for 80 years.
In the evening enjoy live music at one of the many bars lining Beale Street before dining in Elvis’ booth at Arcade Restaurant. Day 4: Put on your blue suede shoes and head to Graceland, the former home of Elvis. See endless costumes, artifacts, cars and personal mementos from the Presley family as well as visiting the Graceland mansion. Follow this with a visit to the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum.
While in Memphis, be sure to try out the barbecue cuisine that the region is known for. Rendezvous is a local favourite and serves ribs piled high. Wash these down with a local beer at Wiseacre Brewery •
Selling the USA 60 / Destination update
Time for the Maine course
A veritable feast for the eyes, palate and tastebuds, Maine invites visitors to try and experience something different
ride the waves on awindjammer
Lighthouse Lookout in PortLand
Maine, the northeasternmost U.S. state, offers unique sightseeing and tour options that showcase local traditions, wild landscapes and plenty of fresh, homegrown produce.
Take to the water
Maine’s rugged coastline is dotted with over 60 iconic lighthouses. Learn about their history and present-day importance to the state’s maritime culture and explore the charming unique towns that surround them. Or see Maine from a different perspective sailing on a windjammer.
Hear all about Maine’s aquaculture industry while visiting one of the more than 80 oyster farms located along the Maine Oyster Trail, or learn to catch lobster on a lobster boat tour.
Home-grown treats
Maine lobster is an iconic mainstay – and it’s easy to see why. Whether it’s bathed in butter or piled into a freshly crafted lobster roll, there are plenty of ways to enjoy it. But Maine also offers a thriving food scene rich with diverse, seasonal ingredients that are hand-harvested from the fields and tides.
Be sure to check out the Damariscotta Pumpkin Festival or the Maine Potato Blossom Festival. The Ploye Festival in Fort Kent offers visitors the chance to try a light buckwheat pancake, a staple brought to Maine by the French Acadians. And no trip to Maine would be complete without tasting a pie made with wild blueberries.
Walk on the wild side
Maine’s majestic mountains, deep woods and rocky coasts are home to aweinspiring wildlife. Birdwatchers will find plenty to impress them, and especially so if they’re hoping for a glimpse of puffins.
Maine is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, from hiking, biking, and paddling to fishing and wildlife watching.
In winter, strap on some skis or snowshoes and explore a snowy wonderland. You can also experience the northeast’s only equestrian skijoring competition in Skowhegan. This sport looks like water skiing, except the water is snow and the boat is a horse – definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience! •
oLd orchard Beach at sunset
What’s new
Occupying a former textile mill, the Lincoln Hotel has opened in Biddeford. Offering 33 stylish guest rooms, the design-forward property has a rooftop pool, a bar and a fully equipped fitness center.
The newly-opened Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown Old Port is a six-story, 102-room property within walking distance of local restaurants, breweries, and shopping. This is Cambria’s first hotel in Maine and features a state-of-the-art fitness center, an indoor-outdoor rooftop bar overlooking a hops garden, and a multi-use courtyard. •
Regional highlights in Maine
Selling theUSA Six of the best / 61
It is known the world over for its abundant lobster but Maine has plenty of other star attractions that make it a worthy stop on any East Coast itinerary, says Jessica Pook
Portland
Portland’s vibrant heart beats to the sound of awardwinning restaurants, local shopping, concerts and arts. Browse boutiques downtown and enjoy the waterfront or sail the harbor at sunset. The new Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine is great for kids of all ages, with highlights including an aquarium, live theatre productions, art workshops and interactive exhibits. kitetails.org
Boothbay Harbor
This popular harbor has treasures such as the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, which celebrates spring with 35,000 blooming tulips set among giant trolls. Or take to the water with Cap’n’ Fish’s whale cruises to see whales, puffins and dolphins. Windjammer Days includes a gathering of the fleet, street parades and fireworks. boothbayboattrips.com
Kennebunkport
Quintessentially Maine, this village offers shopping, walks on the beach and fresh seafood dinners. Deep sea fishing and whale watching are available, as are cruises on historic schooners. Kennebunkport has been voted the second best Christmas Town in America: it features a tree lighting ceremony, candlelight caroling and Santa’s arrival by lobster boat. christmasprelude.com
Acadia National Park
Situated on the east of Maine, Acadia National Park is open all year and has 47,000 acres on Mount Desert Island. Climb Cadillac Mountain to see the first rays of daylight to touch the U.S., go green and rent an Acadia Gem EV vehicle for a family tour or stroll the small streets of downtown Bar Harbor to enjoy a fabulous seafood lunch. acadiagem.com
Bangor
A must for all Stephen King fans, take a tour of the author’s home and places that inspired his stories and actual film locations from his movies, such as Mount Hope Cemetery, the site of “Pet-Sematary”. Dine in Downtown Bangor and see a show at the Penobscot Theatre. Lumberjack icon Paul Bunyan was also born in Bangor, a selfie-worthy photo op. sk-tours.com
Bethel
When the mountains call you, Maine’s mountain village of Bethel has the answer. Hike, bike or kayak White Mountain National Forest at the doorstep of the village. Grafton Notch State Park offers day hikes, with stunning views during fall. In winter, the Bethel area offers some of the best alpine skiing in the east at Sunday River and Mt. Abram, plus nordic skiing, snowshoeing and great après ski. sundayriver.com
