VISIT USA 2018 TRAVEL PLANNER
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We make holidays. It’s what we do. That’s why year after year, families come to Kissimmee for memories that last them a lifetime. From getting in the thrills at our world-famous theme parks to exploring the natural wonder of Florida from a hot air balloon, the possibilities are endless here.
See everything there is to discover at EXPERIENCEKISSIMMEE.COM
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Welcome to the usa! Your guide to planning the ultimate USA holiday
Be inspired
Travel toolkit
4 America's icons
61 Helpful hints and tips
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Coast to coast
10 The Old West 12 Road trips
62 Visit USA members
A complete contact guide to help you plan the perfect U.S. itinerary
14 Natural wonders 16 Neighbourhoods 20 Sustainable tourism
70 Tour operators
Holiday experiences from members of Visit USA (UK)
22 Animal magic
Spotlight
30 Island hopping 34 Theme parks 38 Food festivals 42 Rivers and lakes 44 Shopping 46 Twin centres
he essential information you T need to know before you go
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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
13 Mesa, Arizona 15 Birmingham, Alabama 18 Kansas & Oklahoma
50 Rail journeys
19 Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Map
21 Denver, Colorado
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26 Tennessee
Plot your route around the U.S. with selected highways, gateway cities, train routes and cruise ports marked on this map of the nation
State round-up 52 F rom Alabama to Wyoming, get the
lowdown on the nation's states and territories, with highlights, essential information and contact details
24 Mississippi 28 Kentucky 29 Deep South USA 32 Dutchess County, New York 33 Central New York 35 Central Florida 40 Arizona 45 Houston, Texas 48 Atlantic City, New Jersey 51 Bradenton Area, Florida
Published by Selling Travel, BMI Publishing Ltd, Suffolk House, George Street, Croydon CR9 1SR, UK. Tel: +44 (0)20 8649 7233 Email: enquiries@bmipublishing.co.uk Website: bmipublishing.co.uk EditorIAL DIRECTOR: steve hartridge Publisher: Sally Parker Feature writers: Peter ellegard & LAUREN JARVIS Creative Director: Matt Bonner Lead Designers: Louisa Horton & Monica Notarnicola Designers: Ross Clifford & ZOE TARRANT group editor: andy Hoskins Production Manager: Clare Hunter Production Controller: Steve Hunter COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR: David clare Managing Director: Martin Steady | The natural and human environment is important to us. We take great care to ensure that the paper products used to produce this brochure are manufactured from timber which is sourced from responsibly managed and harvested forests | Although every effort has been made to achieve accuracy, the publishers and Visit USA association (UK) do not accept responsibility for any mistakes or omissions ŠBMI Publishing LtD 2017
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America's icons
Sights to b ehold Every U.S. trip should i nclud e an icon ic la ndm ark!
The STATUE OF LIBERTY has stood guard over New York Harbour from Liberty Island since 1886. Washington DC's NATIONAL MALL encompasses more than 1,000 acres of green spaces, as well as several notable monuments. The famously-cracked LIBERTY BELL in Philadelphia is arguably the most powerful symbol of America’s independence and history. Seattle's striking SPACE NEEDLE was built for the 1962 World’s Fair in the city. The new FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT TRAIL self-drive route visits some of the esteemed architect’s best-known creations across Wisconsin. The impressive HOOVER DAM on the Arizona-Nevada border was completed in 1936. It took 400 workers 14 years to sculpt the 60ft-high faces of four U.S. presidents at South Dakota’s MOUNT RUSHMORE. Walk or cycle over San Francisco’s GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE then catch the ferry back from Sausalito.
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Mask optional. Fun inevitable.
In New Orleans, it’s Fat Tuesday every day of the week. Perhaps it’s because the city is the birthplace of jazz and the cocktail. There’s something to amuse and delight around every cobblestoned corner, especially the tax-free shopping savings.
Visit NewOrleans.com and start planning your trip today!
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Coast to coast
Life's a bea ch f the
ocea n
The U.S. has a staggering 95,471 miles of shoreline to suit every mood. Want to combine some relaxing beach time with upscale shopping and dining? Then head to Florida’s chic resorts of Naples or Sarasota. How about something altogether more wild? Check out California’s legendary Big Sur. Whether you’re a sailor, a snorkeller or simply a sun-lover, the United States’ beaches will deliver – every time.
Pictured Main image: sundown on the West Coast; Above: South Beach, Miami; Right: a sunset stroll in Bradenton; Opposite page: resident pelicans in the Florida Keys
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Ryan Grosjean
Discover the allure o
Ride the surf
Nothing beats the feeling of riding along a beautiful beach on horseback, the sun in your eyes and the wind in your hair – apart, perhaps, from riding that horse in the ocean. The Great World Adventures' Beach Horses Experience in Bradenton, Florida, starts off on the white sands of Palma Sola Bay, before entering the water for some horse-riding fun in the surf.
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Entertainment | Bay Cruises | Dining | Shopping | & More
Great Nightlife
Fun Shopping
Amazing Food
sPiN Out
The new GuLf AdVeNtuRe CeNtRe at The Wharf on Orange Beach, Alabama, zooms thrillseekers along on ziplines up to 90-feet high. Just make sure you don’t close your eyes – the coastal views of the Gulf of Mexico and surrounding sand dunes are spectacular.
South Carolina’s MYRtLe BeACh has become a magnet for foodies, with oceanfront and marina-side restaurants serving a broad range of international cuisine, alongside traditional Calabashstyle buffets and southern, ‘Lowcountry’ specialities. Look out for its great music and food festivals too.
The sweeping dunes of Oceano in San Luis Obispo County, California, are a playground for those who like to do more with their sand than just lie on it. Dune buggy rides, ATV tours and sand boarding are all on offer here, while visitors arriving by car can take a spin along one of California’s rare drive-on beaches.
hit the BOARdWALK
With a trio of wonderful beaches, great restaurants, bars, watersports and playgrounds, Virginia Beach in southeastern Virginia has something for everyone. Make like a local and rent a bicycle or rollerblades to explore the three-mile-long boardwalk.
hiGh ROLLeRs
What could be more fun than hitting the beach in the afternoon, followed by a trip to the casino at night? Mississippi’s Gulf Coast has some top casino resorts, with many overlooking the Gulf’s 62 miles of golden shoreline, plus there’s excellent shopping, dining and entertainment to enjoy with your winnings.
THE EMBARCADERO @ BEACH STREET | 1.415.705.5500 | PIER39.COM
TEAK. SKYLIGHTS. WATER VIEWS. TAKE A NEW KIND OF ARCHITECTURE TOUR. Named one of the “Top three day cruises” alongside the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s tour by The New York Times
tO the LiGhthOuse
There are some places that don’t live up to the hype but Cape Cod is not one of them. Think chic, nautically-designed resorts, friendly maritime towns, great local dining and the region’s iconic lighthouses. Cross the Cape Cod Canal from mainland Massachusetts and drive along the peninsula to discover 560 miles of beautiful beaches.
CLASSIC HARBOR LINE
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ARCHITECTURE TOURS
CLASSIC DESIGN. CONTEMPORARY EXPERIENCE. AIANY TOURS & PRIVATE EVENTS | CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS AVAILABLE WWW.SAIL-NYC.COM | 212-627-1825 CHELSEA PIERS, NEW YORK CITY
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Visit Philadelphia
America's birthplace
discover America’s spirit in the city where it began, with abundant historical landmarks, museums, cultural attractions, restaurants, shops and more
T “The oldest art museum and art school in the U.S., the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts was founded in 1805 and houses a renowned collection of American paintings from the 1760s to the present”
he 'American Dream' was born in Philadelphia, with the city playing a pivotal role in the development of a new nation founded on the principles of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. With more historic buildings from the colonial and federal periods of American history than anywhere else in the United States, many of Philadelphia’s original structures have been preserved. Philadelphia also has top-notch art museums, cultural offerings, tax-free shopping, award-winning restaurants and outdoor art, and it is home to the largest and first city-owned urban park system in the world. In 2015, Philadelphia earned the distinction of the first World Heritage City in the U.S., joining an elite network of global cities. Read on to learn why Philadelphia consistently ranks as one of the best places to visit in the U.S.
Independence and United States Constitution were debated and adopted. Nearby is Carpenter’s Hall, meeting place of the First Continental Congress in 1774. Liberty Bell, the symbol of American independence that cracked when rung upon arrival in Philadelphia, was once located in the steeple of Independence
national treasures
Traverse Fairmount Park, the city’s 9,000-acre park system with 215 miles of recreation trails. The first botanical garden, Bartram’s
Independence Hall, a UNSECO World Heritage Site, is the building where the Declaration of
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Hall. While in the area, stroll through Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited street in America – one of Philadelphia’s most Instagram-worthy spots.
explore the outdoors
Garden, spans over 45 acres along the Schuylkill River. The Philadelphia Zoo, the nation’s first, is now home to Zoo360, a series of elevated mesh trails throughout the zoo that allow the animals to roam around the park.
Arts and culture
The first and oldest art museum and art school in the U.S., the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts was founded in 1805 by Charles Wilson Peale and houses a renowned collection of American paintings from the 1760s to the present. Visit the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, also known as Philadelphia’s museum district, to explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art, with its outstanding collection of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings, including the largest collection of Marcel Duchamp’s artwork in the world. Exit the east entrance of the museum to the steps made famous by Philadelphia’s beloved fictional son, Rocky Balboa, whose statue stands tall on the edge of the museum’s grounds.
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Be inspired
Six of the best attractions in
Philadelphia
Philadelphia brings history to life, offering countless opportunities to explore and learn, and all within a compact walkable downtown A World-Renowned Arts SCENE The Barnes Foundation houses the world’s finest private collections of early FrenchModern and Post-Impressionist paintings in the world. The collection (more than 4,000 objects) also includes pieces of antique furniture, pottery and African sculptures.
Fabulous Food
Historic Mile
Philadelphia restaurants feature Iron Chefs, Top Chefs and more in a melting pot of global cuisines. Visit Reading Terminal Market, where over 80 merchants sell food, groceries and gifts. Or head to East Passyunk Avenue, dubbed a 'Top 10 Foodie Street in America' to enjoy a classic Philly cheesesteak or gourmet cuisine.
Philadelphia is rich in attractions that tell the country’s story, all within easy walking distance. Experience what it was like for the Continental Army on the front lines, climb aboard a replica of a privateer ship and see General George Washington’s original tent at the Museum of the American Revolution.
Tax-free Shopping Clothing and shoe purchases are tax-free so pack an extra suitcase and get ready to shop Rittenhouse Row, the Chestnut Hill Business District, King of Prussia Mall, the Philadelphia Premium Outlets and more. Philadelphia offers the biggest name brands as well as independent boutiques.
love Named by its founder, William Penn, Philadelphia translates from Greek to 'City of Brotherly Love'. Penn envisioned a city of tolerance and Philadelphia is welcoming and inclusive. Take a picture with the iconic LOVE sculpture, designed by Robert Indiana, now back in the newly renovated LOVE Park.
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City of Murals Mural Arts Philadelphia started as an anti-graffiti programme and has grown to be an international leader with nearly 4,000 works of community-based public art. Take a tour and find out why Philadelphia is called the 'Mural Capital of the World'.
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The Old West
In the sadd Relive America's 'Wi ld We st' cu
le
lture
THE spirit of America’s 'Wild West' is alive and kicking. Relive the frontier days and experience cowboy culture through a feast of events, museums, rodeos and ranch stays – and not just west of the Mississippi. You can find it in surprising places, such as rodeos in Florida and even in Hawai‘i, and there are numerous authentic Native American experiences right across the country.
Pictured Main image: flying the flag at a local rodeo; Above: John Ford's Point, Monument Valley; Right: Native American dancers; Opposite page: colourful teepees in Utah
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VILLAGE LIFE
Salt Lake City’s This is the Place Heritage Park attraction has opened a new Native American Village, showcasing life for native tribes in Utah before white settlers arrived. Native American dancers perform ceremonial dances inside America’s largest teepee, seating 110 people representing Shoshone dwellings. There are also Navajo Hogan dwellings in which stories are shared.
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Visit the
Grand Canyon Seeing is Believing!
THE LAWLESS WEST
The three-day GATHERING OF NATIONS, held each April in Albuquerque, is North America’s largest powwow and draws 3,000 Native American people from over 500 tribes with traditional song, dance and drumming competitions. Visitors can buy indigenous art and try native foods.
Denver’s 16day NATIONAL WESTERN STOCK SHOW AND RODEO is America’s premier livestock, rodeo and horse show. It welcomes 650,000 visitors each year and features one of the richest professional rodeos, mounted shooting events and Colorado’s largest Western trade show.
Guests at Arizona’s Tombstone Monument Ranch can immerse themselves in Wild West legend. Just three miles from the lawless territory Wyatt Earp tamed, the entire ranch resembles a frontier town, with a dirt Main Street and boardwalk lined by guestrooms disguised as buildings including a blacksmith’s shop and bordello.
Grand Canyon National Park • Hoover Dam • Indian Country Grand Canyon West • Grand Canyon Overnight Packages • Group Services and Charters • Grand Canyon Overnight with the Grand Canyon Railway www.grandcanyontourandtravel.com inquiries@gctco.com
NATIVE HERITAGE
The National Museum of the American Indian, the first national museum in the U.S. dedicated solely to Native American heritage, is part of the Smithsonian Institution and is located on D.C.’s National Mall. It features one of the world’s largest collections of American Indian arts, artefacts and archives.
dodge city, kansas
TRAIL OF HISTORY
The Chisholm Trail, along which cattle were herded from Fort Worth, Texas, to Abilene, Kansas, is 150 years old. Learn about it at Chisholm Trail Museums in Kingfisher and Wellington, Oklahoma, the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum in Cleburne, Texas, and the Heritage Centre in Duncan, Oklahoma.
YIPPEE HAWAI‘I YAY
Hawai‘i’s Makawao Rodeo has been held in Upcountry Maui every Fourth of July for over 60 years. It features a parade and traditional rodeo competitions with a Hawaiian twist. Visitors can learn all about paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) traditions at ranches across Hawai‘i.
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Six of the best...
Road trips
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MIAMI TO KEY WEST, FLORIDA
“I’m driving down to the Florida Keys,” is a phrase everyone should say at least once in their life. Rent a jeep in Miami for the 110-mile trip along the scenic Overseas Highway, crossing over 40 bridges that connect the sundrenched Keys. Explore laid-back beach communities, pristine waterways and the Florida Reef, before arriving in the lively, southernmost city of the continental United States, Key West, and prepare to party.
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ANCHORAGE TO DENALI NATIONAL PARK LOOP, ALASKA
One of the world’s last great wildernesses, Alaska is the ultimate destination for a self-drive adventure. Dramatic mountain landscapes,
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Pictured Main image: unusual traffic in Denali National Park, Alaska; Inset: destination Florida Keys
cascading rivers and the beauty of Denali National Park will lift the spirits and soothe the soul. For that extra sense of freedom, pick up a motor home – or recreational vehicle (RV) as they’re called in the U.S. – in Anchorage, and cruise your highway to holiday heaven.
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SKYLINE DRIVE, SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK, VIRGINIA
Take a leisurely 105-mile cruise along the Skyline Drive which runs along the Blue Ridge Mountains in the stunningly beautiful Shenandoah National Park. Black bears, deer and wild turkeys are regulars along the road, so stick to the speed limit and you’ll experience the wildest of adventures without even having to step out of the car.
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GREAT LAKES CIRCLE TOUR, THE MIDWEST
A scenic road system connects each of the five Great Lakes – Superior, Michigan, Ontario, Eerie and Huron – and the St. Lawrence River, meandering across eight states and the Canadian province of Ontario. Stretching over 6,500 miles, the highways around
‘North America’s Fresh Coast’ lead travellers from lush forests to dune lands, with no end of historic towns and attractions to explore. Choose one, or stay and drive them all.
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AMERICANA MUSIC TRIANGLE, MEMPHIS, NASHVILLE AND NEW ORLEANS
A great soundtrack is crucial to a memorable U.S. road trip, but on a tour of the Gold Record Road in the Americana Music Triangle the tunes won’t just be playing on your iPod – they’re everywhere! Visit key landmarks as you journey through the history of nine different musical genres, from jazz in New Orleans to rock ’n’ roll in Memphis.
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MOHAWK TRAIL, MASSACHUSETTS
This 63-mile road trip is a biker’s dream, and follows the old trade route used by the Native Americans of the Five Nations to pass between the Connecticut and Hudson Valleys. Crossing 50,000 acres of state forests, reservations and parks, it’s one of New England’s best spots to see the famous colours of ‘Fall’ as the foliage turns from vibrant green to dazzling golds.
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Be inspired
Visit Mesa, Arizona
City limitless
Outdoor recreation, one-of-a-kind attractions, fabulous weather, local flavours and Western heritage await visitors to Mesa
NON-STOP ACCESS TO SUNSHINE British Airways is expanding its daily service from London to Phoenix in 2018. Starting in March, the airline will operate a second flight on Tuesdays and Fridays, with an additional Sunday flight in May. The added service will be available through to October. A DESERT OASIS Mesa shares a border with the Tonto National Forest, the fifth largest and one of the most visited forests in the United States. There are three lakes and two rivers that offer yearround recreation including cruises on the Dolly Steamboat. dollysteamboat.com
W “Staying in Mesa is the best decision for visitors that want to take easy day trips to experience the Grand Canyon, visit the Native American communities, enjoy outlet shopping, take in a round of world-class golf and so much more”
elcome to Mesa, Arizona’s third-largest city. This Sonoran Desert playground is the perfect Southwest spot for Western heritage, rugged outdoor adventure, culinary discoveries and authentic Arizona beauty with mountains and canyon lands surrounding the city. In fact, Mesa was named the Best Place for Outdoor Lovers by Money magazine, recognising the thousands of acres of natural desert that lies just north and east of the urban city core.
Western heart
Staying in Mesa is the best decision for visitors that want to take easy day trips to experience the Grand Canyon, visit the Native American communities, enjoy outlet shopping, take in a round of world-class golf and more. Mesa offers a premium selection of full-service hotels and is the ideal ‘hub and spoke’ destination for exploring all of Arizona’s unique experiences, heritage and landscapes. Visitors to Mesa arrive at
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Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, located just ten minutes away from the city’s collection of brand-name hotels featuring extended stay options.
Visitors can also gain easy access to Mesa hotels and the city’s core by hopping aboard the convenient Metro Light Rail. With the airport Sky Train, getting to and from the airport is easy for international visitors. The Metro Light Rail takes guests into Downtown Mesa, with rail stops at three museums and right in front of the renowned Mesa Arts Center. For further information about all these Arizona adventures and experiences go online and head to www.VisitMesa.com.
FRESH FOODIE TRAIL® Take the ultimate road trip full of Arizona flavours on the award-winning Fresh Foodie Trail®. This in-demand collection of culinary outposts in the shape of farms, citrus groves, peach orchards and more has delights in store for all taste buds. freshfoodietrail.com WILD WILD WEST Head out on the legendary Apache Trail into the Superstition Wilderness. Today, the region still pays homage to its Western roots. Visit an Old West stagecoach, a ghost town, and the famous Elvis Presley Chapel to capture the true essence of Arizona. FUN FOR ALL AGES Mesa is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the state, with action-packed attractions, kidfriendly restaurants and a mix of fun entertainment. Mesa offers an enriching family experience for all visitors.
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Six of the best...
Natur al wonders
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GRAND CANYON, ARIZONA
One of the greatest natural wonders on earth, the Grand Canyon is just hours from the dazzling lights of Vegas but a world away from the frenetic pace of 'Sin City'. Vast, ancient and dramatic, there’s a quiet calm here: stand on the canyon rim gazing out over this immense natural rift and all you’ll hear is the timeless whispering of the wind, as the Colorado River rumbles over billion-year-old rocks a mile below you. Total bliss.
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Like when entering the gates of Disneyland, there are some places in the world where you just can’t help but smile: Yosemite National Park is one of them. This pristine slice of paradise boasts grandiose granite peaks, lush valleys and rainbow-splashed waterfalls, including America’s highest, Yosemite Falls. Black bears and mule deer graze its meadows, while giant sequoias soar skywards in ancient forests. A natural gem.
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NIAGARA FALLS, NEW YORK
Nothing can prepare you for the force of nature that is the mighty Niagara Falls in New York state. More than 600,000 gallons of water rush over the falls every second, plunging at speeds of up to 68mph into the gorge below. Jump aboard the historic Maid of the Mist boat tour and feel the spray on your face, or, for a spectacular view from above, take to the skies in a helicopter.
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YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, CALIFORNIA
THE EVERGLADES, FLORIDA
One of the most precious regions of our planet, the Everglades National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. Covering 1.5 million acres of Florida wetland, it’s home to unique wildlife including manatees, alligators and the elusive Florida panther. Explore its primordial forests and swamps with a guide at dawn – its raw beauty will stay with you forever.
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Pictured Main image: Arizona's spectacular Grand Canyon; Inset: making a splash at Niagara Falls
streams, 7,000-year-old glaciers, and soaring, snow-capped mountains, it’s a picturesque playground for trekkers, hikers and campers, who share this million-acre wilderness with grizzly bears, moose, wolverines and lynx. Pull on your boots and breathe deep.
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HANAUMA BAY STATE PARK, O’AHU, HAWAI‘I
Divers and snorkellers will find a multitude of watery wonders beneath the waves in Hanauma – Hawai‘i’s first marine preservation zone. Once a volcanic crater, the Bay and its coral reef now shelter abundant tropical fish, with nearby opportunities to whale-watch or swim with wild spinner dolphins and green turtles. Back on land, Hanauma’s award-winning beach is the perfect spot to dry off and soak up some of that endless Hawaiian sun.
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK, MONTANA
For those with a love of outdoor adventure, there’s no better place to indulge than amidst the stunning landscapes of Glacier National Park. With its turquoise mirror lakes, crystal-clear rivers and
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Be inspired
Visit Birmingham, Alabama
Southern meets spirited In this trending southern U.S. city, prepare to experience a taste of history mixed with the rich flavours of the contemporary
O “Birmingham has received tremendous press as a foodie city, and rightly so. You’ll discover exceptional chef-owned restaurants featuring locally farmed fare and delicious seafood brought up fresh from the Gulf of Mexico daily”
ften recognised as the gravitational centre of the civil rights movement, Birmingham offers a unique experience to the visitor who wants to sample the historical 'South', but enjoy the amenities of a modern city. Here you can spend the day in our Civil Rights District, exploring locations you’ve only read about, then enjoy phenomenal farm-tofork fare at any number of top restaurants. After dinner, spend your evening in one of the last remaining true juke joints in the world – Gip’s Place. You’ll find Birmingham mixes old and new to create a cocktail with a flavour all its own.
offer everything from emerging new music to the blues.
Feed your soul
brought up fresh from the Gulf of Mexico daily. And to top it off, Birmingham’s breweries tap phenomenal craft brews, while the mixologists at the local bars sport handcrafted cocktails designed with the discerning imbiber in mind. If food and drink are what you hunger for, you’ll find no better than in Birmingham.
Birmingham’s got soul. You’ll find it at the 16th Street Baptist Church or Kelly Ingram Park. You’ll find it in quaint, out-of-the-way artsy shops, bustling boutiques, and our expansive green spaces. You’ll find Birmingham’s soul at the top of the statue of Vulcan overlooking the city, and you’ll find it in the music venues that
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Feed your palate
Birmingham has received tremendous press as a foodie city, and rightly so. Here, you’ll discover exceptional chef-owned restaurants featuring locally farmed fare and delicious seafood
Feed your body
From hiking trails to pristine rivers and excellent golf courses, Birmingham offers diverse adventures aplenty. Visitors can discover hundreds of miles of walking trails and more than 140,000 yards of public golf within a cab ride of where you’re staying. Wander along the Cahaba River, which boasts more biodiversity than all of England’s waters combined. Or explore parks that celebrate Birmingham’s industrial past and peer into fascinating century-old, abandoned iron-ore mines. If golf is your bag, you’ll find that our rolling topography and lush flora make for stunning golf courses that wow you with their natural beauty and challenge you to make your shots. In sum, Birmingham is that gracious southern American city that shares its history with panache, its food and drink generously and hospitably, and its many varied adventures with delight.
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Neighbourhoods
Want to really know t he U. S.? G o
loca l!
IT’S NO longer enough for travellers to tick off a destination’s top attractions or historic highlights on their trip. Now we all want to experience more, feel more and get an insight into where the locals go and what they know. Across the U.S. those residents are ready to welcome you to their own local neighbourhoods, so dive in – you won’t be disappointed.
Pictured Main image: murals in Philadelphia; Above: Fremont Street, Las Vegas; Right: Old Town Alexandria; Opposite page: Terlingua Ghost Town, Texas
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Lucio Rossi/Latitudeslife.com
Street life
HISTORICALLY HIP
A whisker away from Washington D.C., Virginia’s pretty port town of Alexandria blends its historic colonial past with a cool and casual dining and arts scene that makes visitors feel instantly at home. Walk the Old Town’s cobbled streets, with its independent restaurants and boutiques, before exploring the waterfront’s Torpedo Factory Art Centre, home to over 80 working artists' studios.
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Sweet Home Alabama is more than a song. It’s a place where
Lucio Rossi/Latitudeslife.com
ART OF THE CITY
Tear yourself away from the dazzling Strip to discover a very different vibe in DOWNTOWN LAS VEGAS. Stay at the authentic Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino to explore funky Fremont Street and the excellent Mob Museum, and check out The Neon Museum’s collection of classic ’n’ kitsch Vegas signs.
The lively college town of ATHENS in Georgia is a hub for some of the country’s finest craft beer breweries. The Terrapin Beer Co. also offers yoga classes, while the Southern Brewing Company has food trucks, and Creature Comforts Brewing Company hosts bands to sup and sway along to.
the skies really are so blue - a land of history, culture, music and adventure. Here, Gospel is sung in churches and folks dance to Blues, Country and Jazz in bars. Locally owned restaurants dish up meals of mouth-watering barbecue and fresh seafood from Alabama’s fishing villages. Alabama’s top museums include the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and the legendary studios of Muscle Shoals. Surrounded by great cities - New Orleans, Memphis, Nashville and Atlanta among them - Alabama is the heart and sould of any Southern USA trip.
Outstanding art collections abound in Philadelphia’s worldclass museums, including over 600 French post-Impressionist and modern masterpieces at the city’s Barnes Foundation. Beyond the galleries, colourful artworks adorn many of the city’s walls, supported by the Mural Arts Philadelphia programme.
HIT A HOME RUN
Even if sport’s not your thing, no visit to Boston is complete without catching a game at Fenway Park, the U.S.’s oldest Major League Baseball stadium. Stay across the road at The Verb hotel with its music memorabilia and record players, and grab lunch at vegan hotspot By Chloe.
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CORNING MUSEUM OF GLASS
HOTTEST TOWN IN TEXAS
It may be known as a ‘ghost town’ but Terlingua, near Big Bend National Park in Texas, is alive and kicking. Born from the mercury mining boom in the early 1900s, it’s now home to an artsy community and an annual international chilli cook-off, plus the straight-out-of-a-western Starlight Theatre saloon.
GROWN-UP FUN
While Mickey and co. are the major draw for Orlando, there’s plenty more beyond. Thornton Park District is within walking distance from Downtown and offers events such as a Wine & Art Walk, Thornton Thursdays with street DJs and live music, and a Sunday farmers’ market with yoga at Lake Eola Park.
ROCHESTER, NY
NIAGARA FALLS, NY
EXPLORE NEW YORK BEYOND NYC AND DISCOVER OUR WONDERS
www.winewaterwonders.com
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Visit Kansas & Oklahoma
Where buffalo roam
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…and the deer and the antelope play. Where seldom is heard a discouraging word and the skies are not cloudy all day…
H “The place, the heart, the soul that inspired the national ‘unofficial anthem’ of the American West. Evocative historic trails bring to life stories alive with American Indian & western culture; energetic cities, quirky towns and landscapes of significant beauty”
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ere, against the backdrop of a big blue sky, the broad expanses of the Great Plains and the last stand of virgin tall grass prairies is the heart and soul of America. People here are kind and unassuming and full of humour, warm-hearted and hospitable. Western and American Indian backgrounds are well mixed within contemporary life offering a fascinating cultural experience in vibrant cities and thriving small towns. Kansans and Okies are proud of their history and love to share their stories. Visitors are genuinely welcome.
Lip-smacking yummy!
Delicious down-home food, prepared from locally-sourced ingredients, is on offer throughout the Heartland States: fried chicken, barbecue, onion burgers,
pie (with ice cream)... but that’s not all! An eclectic food scene – from food trucks to farm-to-fork fine dining – is abundant across Kansas and Oklahoma.
Rhythm & routes
Live music is the soundtrack to many memorable evenings – classical, country, pop, red dirt, rock and bluegrass events are all common here. Legendary artistes like Melissa Etheridge, Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, Leon Russell and JJ Cale hail from Kansas/Oklahoma, whilst the beat goes on at the American Banjo Museum in OKC and at the Woodie Guthrie Center in Tulsa.
ROUTE 66 The Mother Road strikes out from Chicago towards distant California, forging 13 photogenic miles through Kansas before traversing Oklahoma’s 400+ miles of drivable route. Conceived in Tulsa in the 1930s this ‘must do’ experience is delivered through a kaleidoscope of quirky and historic, expressive and fun people, places and things, with photo-ops around every corner. Look for the diners, classic car shows, second-hand malls, and oneof-a-kind museums. SCENIC BYWAYS Kansas is home to 12 designated, signposted byways. Scenic and historic, they encourage visitors to take to the ‘side’ roads to explore at a gentle pace, allowing the journey to become the destination. NATIVE AMERICA Many American Indian tribes live in Kansas & Oklahoma. Each tribe has its own distinctive identity and culture, and many share this rich heritage with visitors through eloquent living history centres, at art markets, and during powwows. COWBOY CULTURE Cowboy life is not just historical – it is a way of life today. Cattle ranching, horse-riding and rodeos are all abundant in these inviting Heartland States. STATE PARKS Five of Oklahoma’s State Parks bring together a range of exciting outdoor activities – both on and off the water – from sailing to golf and from hiking to horse-riding, and each offering beautiful full-service lodge accommodation.
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Be inspired
The highlights of
Oklahoma City
Experience America's diverse culture throughout Oklahoma City's unique districts on historic Route 66
Route 66
Oklahoma has more drivable miles of Route 66 than any other state! Stop by POPS to choose from more than 700 varieties of soda. Enjoy some lunch and take some pictures in this colourful space. Also, stop by the historic Milk Bottle Building on Route 66, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Outdoor adventure
Home to the U.S. Olympic kayaking team's training site, get adventurous in Oklahoma City's Boathouse District. See the city skyline as you take on an urban whitewater rafting and kayaking experience where there's more rapids than not! Take on new heights on a six-storey adventure course where you can zip-line across the Oklahoma River, free fall 80-feet down, or take on one of four of America's tallest dry slides.
The cowboy experience
IMAGES: Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau
Get a true cowboy experience in Stockyards City, home to the Oklahoma National Stockyards where live auctions take place every Monday and Tuesday morning. Shop for authentic cowboy gear and enjoy live music at the Rodeo Opry; visit The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; and don’t miss one of the many horse shows while you’re in town.
American Indian experience
A departure from a traditional museum, the Red Earth Art Center in downtown Oklahoma City represents the state’s American Indian heritage, primarily through contemporary art. Each June Red Earth hosts the annual Red Earth PowWow drawing in hundreds of dancers who gather to share their culture and heritage with the world.
BE INSPIRED, VISIT VISITOKC.COM
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“See the Oklahoma City skyline as you take on an urban whitewater rafting and kayaking experience where there's more rapids than not!”
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Sustainable tourism
Free roam Sometimes it IS easy
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TURTLE TREKKING
FOR the conscientious traveller, there’s much to experience and celebrate across the U.S. Traditional communities are now embracing the shift towards sustainability and environmental awareness, with eco-tourism options in every state, from wildlife conservation initiatives to low-impact resorts. GET FRESH
Follow Arizona’s Fresh Foodie Trail from the town of Mesa to the countryside beyond, and experience farmers’ markets, organic dining and pick-yourown produce. There’s a top craft brewery scene here, too, and look out for Mesa’s Food Truck Fridays.
SADDLE UP
Pictured Main image: Mustangs gather in Nevada; Above: Bikeshare in Washington D.C.
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Two million free-roaming mustangs once galloped the plains of the American west, but today less than 50,000 horses remain. Nevada's luxury Mustang Monument eco-ranch is home to 650 of these beautiful beasts, and a sanctuary for guests.
The beautiful beaches of Martin County host nesting sea turtles from February until September. Sign up for a late-night Turtle Walk, led by the Hobe Sound Natural Wildlife & Nature Centre, to see logger head turtles lay their eggs. There are great dive and snorkelling spots, too.
PROTECT THE PRAIRIES
The American Prairie Reserve, a non-profit organisation, aims to create the continental United States’ largest nature reserve in northeastern Montana, with three million acres of grasslands roamed by reintroduced native animals, including the bison. The Reserve’s Kestrel Camp has five luxury safari-style suites and offers tours with biologists.
FROM FARM TO FORK
California’s Sonoma County has more than 425 wineries and is renowned for its farm-to-fork dining scene. The SingleThread restaurant and its accompanying inn is not to be missed, with Asian-inspired haute cuisine, and tasting menus featuring delights from the adjacent farm.
Explore Washington D.C. with a CAPITAL BIKESHARE CYCLE instead of on four wheels. Outside of the city, there are plenty of bike trails and Bikeshare stations in nearby Fairfax County, Arlington and historic Alexandria, so you can cycle along the Potomac River into Washington D.C.
Exploring BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK in Texas? Spend a night at the extraordinary Eve’s Garden in Marathon before you go. This unique and organic B&B has beautifully decorated domed rooms made from Papercrete – a mixture of recycled paper, sand, clay, and cement – and serves possibly the best breakfast in the state.
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Be inspired
The highlights of
Denver, Colorado
The outdoor city that's home to urban adventures for all ages, from Western history and shopping to craft beer and live music
Evan Semon
Denver Beer Trail
Take a self-guided tour along the Denver Beer Trail and sample the craft beer paradise in 'The Mile High City'. Explore the featured breweries – most of which are in the walkable downtown area – and you will find everything from stouts to lagers and all the flavours in between.
Mile High Shopping
Cherry Creek Shopping Center is home to more than 160 restaurants and stores including Macy's, Nordstrom, Apple and Levi’s. Head across 1st Avenue to find the charming, tree-lined streets of the Cherry Creek North neighbourhood to explore galleries, boutiques and great restaurants. Visit the historic downtown shop of Rockmount Ranch Wear, home to the first snap-button cowboy shirt.
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
Stevie Crecelius
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre is famous for its one-of-a-kind outdoor concert venue that is surrounded by giant, ancient rock formations. During the day, Red Rocks is a free city park with easy hiking trails and a visitor centre. Seeing a concert under the stars is a magical experience. Red Rocks Park is located 30 minutes west of downtown Denver.
Denver Union Station & LoDo (Lower Downtown)
Scott Dressell-Martin
Denver Union Station is a transport, dining, shopping and entertainment hub. Enjoy a burrito at Snooze, sip a beer at Terminal Bar, sample the locally sourced cuisine at one of the unique restaurants, or just hit the shops. A direct rail service connects Denver International Airport to this downtown landmark.
BE INSPIRED, VISIT VISITDENVER.COM
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“Take a self-guided tour along the Denver Beer Trail and sample the craft beer paradise that awaits visitors in ‘The Mile High City’”
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Animal magic
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Maine has the second-largest moose population in the U.S. after Alaska, and BAR HARBOR is a great place to see these iconic creatures from May to October. Take a short boat ride from Boston Harbour to see mighty humpback whales and white-sided dolphins feeding in the STELLWAGEN BANK NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY. On Hawai‘i’s BIG ISLAND, kayak brilliant-blue waters amid a pod of spinner dolphins or take a night tour from Kona for an exhilarating dive or snorkel with graceful, giant manta rays. Visit some of the 308 viewing sites on the GREAT TEXAS COASTAL BIRDING TRAIL to see over 450 bird species. The unspoiled ASSATEAGUE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE, off the coast of Maryland and Virginia, is home to a population of wild ponies that have roamed its beaches and marshlands since the 1600s. Slip into warm waters of KINGS BAY in Florida’s Crystal River and you’ll be entering the magical realm of the manatee. It is one of the few places in the world you can snorkel with these gentle marine giants. Feel the thunder of a stampeding herd at the annual autumn BUFFALO ROUNDUP in South Dakota’s Custer State Park. Native grey wolves were reintroduced to YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK in the ‘90s to help restore the ecosystem to its pre-colonial glory. Look out for grizzlies, mountain lions, coyotes and bison, too.
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Visit Mississippi
Blues & bites
savour the authentic sounds and flavours of Mississippi, the birthplace of America's music
W “Elvis Presley is known for connecting blues and country music, helping to popularise rock 'n' roll , but his story begins in Tupelo. Tour his first home at the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum”
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hen you want to feel the most authentic American music experience, go where it all began. Blues, country and rock ‘n’ roll music are all rooted in the rich culture of Mississippi, the birthplace of America’s music. While the rhythm of the blues beats in every corner of the state, the heart is still the Mississippi Delta. Travel to Dockery Farms, where blues pioneer Charley Patton lived and worked. Up the road in Cleveland, the genre’s global impact is displayed at the GRAMMY Museum® Mississippi. Grab some of the Delta’s tamales from Airport Grocery before you hit the road for the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center in Indianola. Download the Mississippi Blues Trail app and browse nearly 200 historical spots highlighting blues artists and iconic juke joints. Greenwood is home to eight Blues Trail markers, highlighting icons such as Robert Johnson, Furry Lewis and Hubert Sumlin. Drop by the Crystal Grill or Fan & Johnny’s downtown for
traditional and eclectic takes on Southern food. Father of country music Jimmie Rodgers grew up in Meridian, where his namesake museum displays his personal guitars and memorabilia. A tour of the new Mississippi Arts & Entertainment Experience – opening April 2018 to celebrate the state’s musicians,
actors, writers and other creative artists – pairs well with a meal at Weidmann’s, founded in 1870. Elvis Presley is known for connecting blues and country music, helping to popularise rock 'n' roll, but his story begins in Tupelo. Tour his first home at the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum, then visit Tupelo Hardware and see where he got
his first guitar. No Elvis trip is complete without Johnnie’s Drive-In, the 'King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s' favorite diner. Down in the ‘city with soul’, you can find Jackson’s own gospel-influenced blues at latenight music spot F. Jones Corner on historic Farish Street and Hal & Mal’s, which hosts a blues jam every Monday night. Let your inner foodie loose in the Fondren District, where choices range from the upscale menu at Walker’s Drive-In to gastropub fare at Barrelhouse. Pair a local brew with pulled pork at Pig & Pint, then enjoy dessert at the soda fountain at Brent’s Drugs or coffee at Sneaky Beans. Live music is alive, every weekend and most weeknights, from Jackson to Oxford to Hattiesburg. The Mississippi Gulf Coast is the prime spot for nightlife. For gaming and live entertainment, visit Biloxi’s Beau Rivage, Imperial Palace and Hard Rock Casino & Hotel. A beachfront sunset and the walkable downtown in Ocean Springs is the perfect way to end your Mississippi adventure.
Be inspired, visit visitmississippi.org
10/24/17 11:28 AM
Be inspired
Six of the best places to visit in
Mississippi
The 'can’t-miss' itinerary highlights in the Magnolia State for history, music and culinary fans GR AMMY Museum® Mississippi In the only GRAMMY Museum outside of Los Angeles, learn about the connections that the state's musicians have to the awards and music worldwide. The Cleveland attraction features songwriting pods and displays showcasing music memorabilia. grammymuseumms.org
n ew mississippi Museums, Jackson
M ississippi Arts & Entertainment Experience
The new Museum of Mississippi History and Mississippi Civil Rights Museum invite visitors inside the state’s rich and complex history. Here they can learn about the true stories responsible for shaping a state and influencing the world.
Creative genius in Mississippi is off the charts – or topping them, in the case of the state's incredible number of hit music makers. Learn about legends of music, film, literature and visual arts at this new experience in Meridian, opening April 2018. msarts.org
mdah.ms.gov/2MM
T he Guest Room, Starkville Start your evening with a signature or traditional craft cocktail or throw back a round from a local brewery before diving into the dinner menu. Savour the flavours where farm fresh is never far from your table. eatlocalstarkville.com
T he White House Hotel, Biloxi This 1890s beachfront boutique hotel is the perfect launching pad for a night out in the entertainment center of Mississippi. Cora’s serves fresh Gulf Coast seafood and choice steaks and the pool overlooks the shimmering Gulf of Mexico.
T he Chimneys, Gulfport Indulge in 'spirited dining' specialities created with local shrimp, oysters and trout in an open dining setting or with a Gulf breeze on the veranda. The Chimneys brings creative chefs and fresh seafood together. chimneysrestaurant.com
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Be inspired, visit visitmississippi.org
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Visit Tennessee
America's sound
The soundtrack of America is made in Tennessee – the state’s cultural heritage and musical history is world-renowned
F “Travellers can honour Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's legacy on the 50th anniversary of his death at the National Civil Rights Museum, or experience the Old Hickory Centennial at President Andrew Jackson’s home, The Hermitage in Nashville”
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rom Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, blues along Beale Street in Memphis and experiencing the history of the “Bristol Sessions” at the Birthplace of Country Music in Bristol, to legendary artists like Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton and B.B. King that paved the way for modern artists like Justin Timberlake, Kings of Leon and Chris Stapleton – it's all here! Tennessee’s four major cities feature some of America’s most popular destinations like Elvis Presley’s home Graceland in Memphis, the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga and the University of Tennessee’s Neyland Stadium in Knoxville. Tennessee is also home to international attractions like Dolly Parton’s Dollywood, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, artist-dedicated museums including Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline and George Jones, Jack Daniel Distillery (a stop along the new Tennessee Whiskey Trail), Great Smoky Mountains National Park,
America’s top music festival Bonnaroo in Manchester, Tennessee, world championship barbecue cook-offs in May and the world’s largest fish fry in Paris. Travellers can also honour Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's legacy on the 50th anniversary of his death at the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis or
help you relax in the natural beauty of the great outdoors, like the breathtaking experience of the underground waterfall at Ruby Falls in Chattanooga. Visit America’s number one most visited National Park, the Great Smoky Mountains, or enjoy fun family activities at places like Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, the new Anakeesta Adventure Park in Gatlinburg and Wilderness at the Smokies in Sevierville, Dolly Parton’s hometown.
Southern specialties
experience the Old Hickory Centennial at President Andrew Jackson’s home “The Hermitage” in Nashville.
Scenic beauty
Tennessee offers exciting adventures including hiking, biking and kayaking along thousands of miles of the state’s trails. Tennessee’s 56 state parks
Visitors can also savour Southern comfort food, including meat and three meals like fried chicken, slow roasted ham, macaroni and cheese and turnip greens at Arnold’s Country Kitchen in Nashville; biscuits at the Loveless Café; fried pickles at Gus’s in Memphis; and Chattanooga’s MoonPie. Whether it's the scenic beauty of the great outdoors, a stop through a quaint town or trip to a big city, communities pride themselves on Southern hospitality, welcoming travellers to Tennessee from far and wide.
BE INSPIRED, VISIT TNVACATION.COM
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Be inspired
The highlights of
Tennessee 2018
The latest route updates, new attractions and openings taking place across Tennessee in the coming year
Music City hits the high notes in 2018
A new route to Music City will be music to travellers' ears with British Airways' new service to Nashville. From May 2018, the airline will launch a five-a-week service from London Heathrow, flown by Boeing 787-7 Dreamliners. It will be the only airline flying direct between Europe and the capital of Tennessee. ba.com
New Tennessee Whiskey Trail
The Tennessee Whiskey Trail consists of 25 distilleries ranging from boutiquesized distilleries to large internationally-recognised operations that span from East to West Tennessee. Along the Trail, visitors can get a taste of the history and tradition of Tennessee whiskey, as well as experience the landscapes, mustsee landmarks and Southern hospitality that embody the state of Tennessee. Visit to see why adventures run on Tennessee whiskey. tnwhiskeytrail.com
A commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr
April 4, 2018 marks the 50th Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s assassination. Join The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, at the Lorraine Motel, to remember his anniversary. The museum brings the Civil Rights Movement to life and places events in perspective. mlk50.civilrightsmuseum.org
The world's finest guitars
The brand-new Songbirds Guitar Museum in Chattanooga, Tennessee, showcases some of the finest in the world. You’ll see an amazing display of the partnership between Gibson and Les Paul. This exhibit showcases the history of the instruments, from acoustic and electric to jazz, bass, mandolin and banjos. songbirdsguitars.com
BE INSPIRED, VISIT TNVACATION.COM
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“Get a taste of the history, tradition and novelty of Tennessee whiskey, as well as experience the rich landscapes, must-see landmarks and Southern hospitality”
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Visit Kentucky
Uniquely Southern Southern hospitality awaits you in the horse, bourbon and bluegrass capital of the world
RED RIVER GORGE Red River Gorge is a truly world-class destination for all categories of rock climbing and consistently ranks among the top ten climbing locations in the world. rrgcc.org
URBAN BOURBON TRAIL Located in Louisville, the Urban Bourbon Trail features dozens of hotels, bars and restaurants, each offering a unique Bourbon experience, be it a Bourbon inspired dish or a Mint Julep – the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. Each one offers 50 to over 150 varieties of Bourbon. bourboncountry.com
F “With diverse landscapes, rolling streams, large lakes and many national and state parks, Kentucky offers abundant opportunities for the outdoor adventure of your choice. Kentucky Trail Towns are a great place to start your adventure”
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or two glorious minutes on the first Saturday in May, the eyes of the world turn to Churchill Downs in Louisville for the pageantry of the famous Kentucky Derby. The Derby might be the bestknown race, but visitors can enjoy horse racing throughout the fall and spring meets at this historic track. At Keeneland racetrack in Lexington, meanwhile, there's excellent thoroughbred racing in fall and spring amid a beautiful pastoral setting. Take a break from the action for breakfast at the famous trackside kitchen and a chance to meet horse owners and trainers.
to the world’s longest known cave system, Mammoth Cave National Park, with more than 400 miles of explored caves. Cumberland Falls, known as the Niagara of the South, is a majestic 125-foot wide waterfall and the site of the rare moonbow, one of only two occurring in the western hemisphere.
Outdoor adventure
Bourbon heritage
With diverse landscapes, rolling streams, large lakes and many national and state parks, Kentucky offers abundant opportunities for the outdoor adventure of your choice. Kentucky Trail Towns, located along or near major trail systems, are a great place to start your adventure. The state is also home
Learn about 'America’s Native Spirit' at historic distilleries across Bourbon Country. Many distilleries invite visitors to learn about their brands and have a taste during behind-the-scenes tours. Follow the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® or visit stops along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Craft Tour®.
CHURCHILL DOWNS KENTUCKY DERBY MUSEUM Experience the 'The Greatest Race', a 360-degree immersive sound and visual experience, daily Historic Walking Tours of the racetrack, a chance to meet the resident thoroughbreds and much more! derbymuseum.org HORSE COUNTRY Try these perfectly curated trips through Lexington’s famed horse country to see beautiful thoroughbred farms, as well as businesses critical to the industry. visithorsecountry.com COVINGTON Sample the nightlife in this northern Kentucky community. Visit Mainstrausse Village, a charming hamlet of historic buildings, eclectic bars, shops and restaurants including the Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar, often named among the nation’s top bars. Tour New Riff distillery and marvel at the three-storey copper column still producing Kentucky Bourbon, or quench your thirst at Braxton Brewing Company. meetnky.com
BE INSPIRED, VISIT KENTUCKYTOURISM.COM
10/24/17 03:28 PM
Be inspired
Six of the best
Icons of the South
Drive the scenic backroads of Kentucky, Tennessee and Mississippi to discover some of America’s most famous attractions P resident Abraham Lincoln Abraham Lincoln served as the 16th President of the United States and his early life in Kentucky prepared him to lead the nation through the Civil War. Discover his story and learn facts about this great American leader at his birthplace in Hodgenville. kentuckytourism.com/lincoln
Muhammad Ali
Elvis Presley
The Muhammad Ali Centre, located on Museum Row in the centre of downtown Louisville, is the only place in the world dedicated to preserving and promoting Ali’s legacy. The museum takes you on a journey into the heart of a champion with awardwinning exhibits and galleries.
Located in Northeast Mississippi is Tupelo where, in 1935, Elvis Presley was born in a two-room shotgun shack. Visitors can experience the first part of Elvis’ story by visiting his birthplace, the church where he sang his first song and the hardware store where he bought his first guitar.
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Jack Daniel The Jack Daniel Distillery in Lynchburg, near Nashville, is America’s oldest registered distillery and home to the world’s best-selling whiskey – Jack Daniel’s Old No.7. Daily tours showcase the history of Jack Daniel and his Tennessee sour mash whiskey, while tastings are available at the Visitor Center. jackdaniels.com
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, Memphis, is where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. The museum brings the movement to life via exhibits and collections, and in 2018 will honour 50 years since Dr. King’s assassination.
B.B. King The B.B. King Museum in Indianola, Mississippi, tells the story of the blues from the cotton fields, street corners and juke joints of the Mississippi Delta. The blues has influenced musicians worldwide, just like the man who helped spread it. bbkingmuseum.org
civilrightsmuseum.org
Be inspired, visit deep-south-usa.com
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Island hopping
It's a shore Life’s always better o
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ISLANDS of all shapes and sizes lie in the oceans and lakes touching the shores of the U.S. At times just a short hop from the country’s cities, these island escapes can still feel like a world away, allowing time and space to kick back and dream. On the U.S. islands of Hawai‘i and Guam, there are vibrant cultures to explore, while closer to home, laid-back isles offer old-style charm.
Pictured Main image: the lush, green shores of Hawai‘i; Above: pick your board and catch a wave; Right: Bohicket Marina, Kiawah Island; Opposite page: meet the locals on Machias Seal Island
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Travel back in time, then have some fun at the beach by combining a visit to historic Charleston in South Carolina with a stay on the beautiful barrier island of Kiawah, just 25 miles south. Explore Charleston’s colonial mansions and museums, before heading to Kiawah for kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, surfing and ten miles of picturesque sandy beaches.
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SINK A SUNDOWNER
MACHIAS SEAL ISLAND is home to New England’s largest nesting colony of Atlantic puffins, which visit Maine’s rugged, coastal isles each summer. Take a boat tour between May and August for an up-close encounter with thousands of these distinctive, colourfully billed, unique birds.
Step back in time on MACKINAC ISLAND, a National Historic Monument where horsedrawn carriages are the preferred means of transport. Located on Lake Huron, between Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas, the island can be reached by ferry and light aircraft or, in winter, by snowmobile across the frozen waters.
Alabama’s Dauphin Island, a short drive from the Gulf Coast, offers white-sand beaches, water sports, historic Fort Gaines and the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, with woodlands, boardwalks and dunes. Visit an oceanfront bar for sundowners and see why this laid-back isle is known as the ‘Sunset Capital of Alabama’.
TUCK IN ON NANTUCKET
A raft of eateries have sprung up on the island of Nantucket, Massachusetts, including The After House Wine & Raw Bar, sister bistro to popular Galley Beach; a casual neighbourhood restaurant, Keepers; and The Charlie Noble, serving classic and progressive New England dishes.
HAWAIIAN FEAST
The annual Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival takes place over three weekends in autumn on the islands of Hawai‘i, Maui and Oahu. Showcasing the best in sustainable local produce, fine dining and wine, there are also cooking demonstrations from international chefs, set against stunning Polynesian landscapes.
Dreaming of the USA? Together with our partners, Delta Air Lines®, we fly to over 200 fantastic destinations in the US including San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles, Seattle and Boston. Onboard both airlines, you can expect warm, intuitive service, award winning entertainment and stylish comfort in some of the best premium cabins in the sky. The fully flat beds in both Virgin Atlantic Upper Class and Delta One® offer exceptional comfort for an undisturbed night’s sleep.
DIVING IN
Take a trip to the Californian Channel Island of Santa Catalina, served by passenger ferries from the Los Angeles area. Well-known for its rewarding dive sites and rich marine life, visitors can also view its underwater wonders from the comfort of a glassbottom boat as they glide over reefs and wrecks.
BOOK IT NOW! FIND YOUR PERFECT TRAVEL PARTNERS. P.62-70
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Six of the best attractions in
Dutchess County, NY Enjoy breathtaking vistas, fascinating historical and cultural sites, and artisanal food and wine offerings just an hour from New York City F ranklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site Visit the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site and FDR Presidential Library and Museum. Experience early 20th century American history with a tour of the estate. Stroll through the rose gardens or discover the grounds and hiking trails.
he Walkway Over T the Hudson
T he Culinary Institute of America
Walk or bike The Walkway Over the Hudson, the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge, for an amazing view of the Hudson River, surrounding mountains and adjacent landscape. This former railroad bridge was built in 1888 and hosts walkers, bikers, joggers and rollerbladers daily.
Appreciate Dutchess County’s great educational institutions, including The Culinary Institute of America. Four award-winning restaurants in addition to tours of the campus are open to the public. Savour fresh regional fare in the unique restaurants.
V anderbilt Mansion National Historic Site Tour the rich heritage sites with a Great Estates Pass. Visit the Vanderbilt Mansion, one of the region’s oldest Hudson River estates. Experience the gilded age, relax in the gardens, and take in the magnificent architecture and landscapes.
D utchess craft Beverage Trail Come savour the local bounty, with award-winning wines, beers and spirits produced here in the Hudson Valley. Our Craft Beverage Trail is a great way to take a tour, try tastings and take home a little #DutchCraftBev.
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Dia:Beacon Explore the rich arts and culture of the Hudson Valley, offered in theatres and galleries throughout the region. Dance, drama, film and music all have a home here. Discover the many art museums and galleries, including Dia:Beacon, which houses a stunning collection of art from the 1960s to the present.
Be inspired, visit dutchesstourism.com
10/24/17 11:36 AM
Be inspired
The highlights of
Central New York
Deep roots in brewing, agriculture and American history make Central New York a truly unique destination, perfect for your next overseas adventure
Experience CNY Fresh
In Central New York, fresh produce, sweets, drinks and dairy can be found at one of CNY’s 444 agricultural locations. Celebrate the rich agricultural history while tasting your way across ten counties and see for yourself the high quality difference fresh makes. Central New York offers a sweet, savoury and fresh experience for all ages. cnyfresh.com
Bike through history
Central New York is filled with New York State’s richest Revolutionary history. Follow in the 'Footsteps of Washington', explore the Mohawk Valley, America’s first frontier, by bicycle and brace yourself for battlefields that helped shape the nation. From Native American cultural centres to national parks, the region has captivating stories that everyone can enjoy – not just the history buffs! Explore over 30 bike routes and more than 50 historical destinations. bikethruhistory.com
Plan an outdoor adventure
It’s time to lace up those boots and hit the trails! With over 350 miles of trails located in Central New York, it’s perfect to bike, hike or cruise through more than 184,500 acres of natural beauty the region has to offer. Picnicking, paddleboarding and even diamond mining are just a few of the adventures that await you here. visitcentralnewyork.com
America’s craft brew destination With over 70 breweries, wineries, cideries and distilleries, it’s safe to say a trip to Central New York wouldn’t be complete without a local pint or two. Among the local legends are Brewery Ommegang, whose farm-style brewery was the first of its kind in the nation, and F X Matt Brewery, a fourth generation familyowned brewery. brewcentralny.com
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“With over 70 breweries, wineries, cideries and distilleries, it’s safe to say a trip to Central New York wouldn’t be complete without a local pint or two”
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Six of the best...
Them e parks
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UNIVERSAL STUDIOS
Universal Studios is still conjuring up incredible new attractions for us Muggles to enjoy, including The Nighttime Lights display at Hogwarts Castle in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood. Or make a splash at Universal Orlando’s new water theme park, Volcano Bay, with high-speed slides, wave pools, beaches and more, where a new virtual queueing system also means more fun and less time in line.
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DISNEY
Walt’s gang has been busy too, conjuring up new rides like The Guardians of the Galaxy, Mission: Breakout! at Disney
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California Adventure, a funny and thrilling drop-ride, soon to expand into a fully-fledged, superherostudded Marvel Land. Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Florida, Pandora: The World of Avatar, will transport visitors to a new realm, populated by the blue-skinned Na’vi people from the smash-hit movie.
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SIX FLAGS
If scream-inducing drops, tummy-flipping tumbles and free-falling fun’s your thing, then America’s Six Flags amusement parks will tick all your boxes. Fourth-dimension, free-fly roller coaster, The Joker, is coming to three parks this year in Texas, Massachusetts and Illinois, featuring seats that spin 360 degrees, up to eight times on each adrenalinpumping circuit, as it soars up to 120 feet in the sky.
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LEGOLAND
The Star Wars craze continues in full force, as Legoland Florida Resort introduces a new Lego Star Wars Miniland Display, inspired by Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens, in 2018. Elsewhere, there’s more cosmic action to be had with over 50 rides, shows and attractions, a
Pictured Main image: Mia's Riding Adventure at Legoland Florida; Inset: Universal Orlando's Volcano Bay
botanical garden and water park, plus the new Lego Ninjago World. Watch out for Legoland New York coming in 2019.
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NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ENCOUNTER OCEAN ODYSSEY
Hold your breath and dive deep into the awesome underwater world of the Pacific Ocean in this new immersive entertainment experience located in the heart of New York, in Times Square. The 90-minute walk-through experience transports adventurers on a journey deep below the sea to encounter its incredible marine life, from great white sharks to sea lions and whales, – and you don’t even need to get wet!
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DR SEUSS MUSEUM
“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go,” says Dr. Seuss. Now you’ve read this, you'll need to visit the wonderful new Dr. Seuss Museum in Springfield, Massachusetts, for more wit and wisdom from the much-loved children’s author and illustrator, Theodor Seuss Geisel. There's also a delightfully daft interactive exhibition, The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss.
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Be inspired
Visit Central Florida
Choose everything
From orange blossoms and sparkling lakes to architecture and top cuisine, visit Central Florida for the best the state has to offer
LEGOLAND FLORIDA RESORT With more than 50 rides, shows, attractions, a water park and the 152-room LEGOLAND Hotel, as well as the new LEGOLAND Beach Retreat and the new LEGO Ninjago World, a visit to LEGOLAND means fun for the whole family. legoland.com/florida
BOK TOWER GARDENS This National Historic Landmark features a 62-metre neo-gothic and art deco tower housing a carillon – a musical instrument comprised of bells played via keyboard – as well as the new Children’s Garden. boktowergardens.org
L “A visit to Polk County must include outdoor activity since it is home to more than 550 lakes and 25,000 acres of recreational parks. If you've ever dreamt of gliding across the water on an airboat, this is your chance, or try water skiing or kayaking”
ocated between Orlando and Tampa, Central Florida’s Polk County offers more than a place to sleep between theme park visits. From unspoiled lakes and wetlands to historic landmarks, citrus groves and, yes, theme parks, there is a reason Floridians say that Polk County offers everything.
Local history, local flavour
If outdoor adventure isn’t your style, Central Florida still has it covered. From the largest singlesite collection of Frank Lloyd
The Sunshine State
A visit to Polk County must include outdoor activity since it is home to more than 550 freshwater lakes and 25,000 acres of recreational parks. If you’ve ever dreamt of gliding across the water on an airboat then this is your chance, or you can enjoy something a little more active, like water skiing or kayaking. Of course, Florida also features a wide and exotic array of flora and fauna to discover. To see the best of it in the wild, visit Circle B Bar Reserve, often dubbed one of the best places to see wildlife – and alligators – in Florida, or Lake Kissimmee State Park, whose 13 miles of trails feature abundant plant, animal
BE INSPIRED, VISIT VISITCENTRALFLORIDA.ORG
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and bird life alongside forest, floodplain and prairie landscapes, as well as lakes Kissimmee, Tiger and Rosalie.
SAFARI WILDERNESS RANCH Dubbed by experts as one of the Ten Best Safaris in the U.S., the ranch gives visitors close-up encounters with huge herds of free-roaming exotic African and Asian hoof stock, as well as the possibility of hand-feeding lemurs. safariwilderness.com
WESTGATE RIVER RANCH RESORT This dude ranch offers cowboy-themed activities and varied luxury accommodation, including 'glamping', or highend camping with beds, bathrooms and showers, for a roughing-it-in-style stay. The Saturday night rodeo is a must. westgateriverranch.com
Wright’s architecture on the Florida Southern College campus, to the Ipanema-meets-grits culinary mash-up of Posto 9, Central Florida’s Polk County shines culturally. Other must-dos include stopping by the Poor Porker for freshly made beignets and live music, or strolling through the farmers markets, held daily, weekly and monthly.
SUN 'N' FUN INTERNATIONAL FLY-IN AND EXPO Taking place in early April, this week-long air show is the second largest fly-in in the United States. Often the event brings one-of-a-kind aeronautic entertainment to the U.S., such as the French Air Force’s Patrouille de France. sun-n-fun.org
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USA Map
Olympic NP Seattle Olympia Glacier NP Whitefish
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ALASKA
PUERTO RICO San Juan
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USA Map
MAINE Lake Superior
NNESOTA
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Lake
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Baltimore WASHINGTON DC Arlington Annapolis
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ILLINOIS Jefferson City
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OHIO
INDIANA
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ie
r eE ak
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Des Moines
ario
Ont
Niagara Falls Buffalo Lansing
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UK Gateway Airports
Main Cruise Ports
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Scale 500km (approx)
Orlando Kissimmee The Palm Beaches Fort Lauderdale
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Fort Myers & Sanibel Naples
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FLORIDA KEYS Key Largo
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Marathon
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Food festivals
Take a bite Tuck into America's
diver se cu
!
isin e
VISITORS seeking a true taste of America will be in foodie heaven with a huge choice of food festivals taking place throughout the year. From big-city gastronomic events featuring famous chefs and celebrations of regional favourites, to quirky small-town festivities honouring the likes of garlic, morel mushrooms, cheese curd, frog legs and spam, there’s plenty to whet the appetite.
Pictured Main image: Maryland crabs on the grill; Above: San Francisco Street Food Festival; Right: Cloud Gate, Chicago; Opposite page: visit a vineyard for wonderful wine tasting
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TASTE THE WINDY CITY
The United States’ premier outdoor food festival and the world’s largest, the five-day Taste of Chicago festival showcases the city’s diverse cuisines and attracts over a million visitors. The free-admission event is held in Grant Park, fronting Lake Michigan, in July and features cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, food booths, pop-up restaurants and concerts by top acts.
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FOOD ON THE BEACH
Squirrel gravy over biscuits, teriyaki-marinated bear and deer sausage are among weird dishes cooked up at the WEST VIRGINIA ROADKILL COOKOFF in Marlington, West Virginia, in September. It also includes a Roadkill Cook-off Pageant, to find Miss Roadkill, Mrs Roadkill and Grandma Roadkill!
Watch garliccooking demos; learn how to cook garlic; buy garlic dips, spreads and cheeses; and try deep-fried garlic, garlic roast pork sandwiches and garlic ice cream – you can do it all at the annual CONNECTICUT GARLIC & HARVEST FESTIVAL in Bethlehem for two days every October.
More than 80 events including presentations, dinners and classes are held over five days on Miami’s South Beach each February during SOBEWFF – the annual Food Network and Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival. It features over 400 top chefs, culinary personalities and winemakers.
RIB IT
Head to Fargo in North Dakota for Happy Harry’s Ribfest where slow-cooked chicken, ribs and pulled pork are firm favourites. The four-day meat fiesta in June showcases some of the best barbecue chefs in the U.S. and beyond. Watch demonstrations, tuck in, play games and enjoy the evening music entertainment.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH
Colorado’s hills are alive with the sound of corks popping and the aromas of cooking in June for the three-day annual Food & Wine Classic in Aspen. This top event has been on the calendar for 35 years and serves up cooking demos, wine tasting and talks by food and wine experts.
With thousands of years of agricultural history, a commitment to sustaining heritage crops, and some of the best restaurants you’ve never heard of, it’s no wonder that Tucson was named by UNESCO as the first City of Gastronomy in the U.S.
SURE BET
Savour culinary delights, wine and spirits during Las Vegas Uncork’d, and rub shoulders with celebrity chefs such as Gordon Ramsay. Held at resorts along the Strip, the four-day spring party offers cookery seminars, discussions, demonstrations and the Grand Tasting outdoor pool party at Caesars Palace.
Find out more at VisitTucson.org/Food
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Visit Arizona
Where it's at!
deciding where to go in Arizona is an adventure in itself, so find out about the state's unique and diverse cities to help you plan your trip
O “Arizona ticks all the boxes, whether you want to embrace your inner cowboy, lose yourself in one of the vast national parks or enjoy some well-deserved rest and relaxation in a world-class resort and spa”
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ver 5,000 miles from the UK, the southwestern state of Arizona borders New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, California and Mexico and also shares a short stretch of border with Colorado to the northeast. Due to Arizona’s size and elevation, it has a diverse landscape and climate. The northern parts of the state and the mountainous areas tend to be cooler, while the southern parts of the state stay warm all yearround, and visitors will also be happy to know the state receives little precipitation – you can expect clear blue skies in this warm climate.
adventures to be had across the state, there’s no better time to visit Arizona.
Natural wonders
Arizona is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World – the spectacular Grand Canyon – but that’s only the beginning of its wide-ranging appeal among visitors.
Easy access
Arizona will be even easier to reach for UK visitors from March 2018, with British Airways bringing back an additional service three days a week from London Heathrow to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The average British Airways flight time to Phoenix is 10 hours and 30 minutes and, with a whole array of new hotels and
Officially nicknamed the Grand Canyon State, nearly six million people visit the Grand Canyon National Park each year, and the Grand Canyon itself can be explored with a guided tour on a bike, on foot or on a mule. You can even see the famous landmark from high above on a helicopter or airplane tour.
A little bit of trivia: you could pile four 1,300-foot skyscrapers on top of each other on the Grand Canyon's floor and they still would not reach its rim. From big adventures to quiet moments and ancient stories to family memories, Arizona is a place that inspires, invigorates and exhilarates. Sports nuts can get their fill at numerous venues, and so can the foodie or craft beer enthusiast. Here, the journey is as exciting as the destination. The Grand Canyon, Monument Valley with its towering sandstone rock formations, historic Route 66, the Hoover Dam, and Glen Canyon and Lake Powell, on the border with Utah, are just a handful of iconic landmarks and breathtaking sights that await visitors to Arizona. Fused with American Indian tradition, Arizona ticks the boxes whether you want to embrace your inner cowboy, lose yourself in one of the vast national parks or enjoy some well-deserved rest and relaxation in a world-class resort and spa.
Be inspired, visit visitARiZONA.cOm
10/24/17 11:44 AM
Be inspired
Six of the best
Arizona destinations Arizona is vast, diverse and a whole lot greener than you might expect. Check out six of its top destinations G LENDALE Home to the nation’s finest multi-sport entertainment complex with famous shopping districts, a treasured historic downtown, signature festivals, family fun, unique culinary flavours and wonderful lifestyle, Glendale is a beautiful blend of new excitement and historic charm. visitglendale.com
FLAGSTAFF
PHOENIX
Located in the heart of Arizona's scenic north and just an hour from Grand Canyon National Park, Flagstaff offers year-round outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, an historic downtown filled with unique shopping and dining opportunities, lively nightlife and the nostalgia of Route 66.
Holidays in Phoenix will be full of local experiences. Dine on scenic restaurant patios and enjoy homegrown ingredients such as peppers, pomegranates and citrus fruits; stroll through desert gardens and one-of-kind museums; and head to the Sonoran Desert for great hiking and biking. visitphoenix.com
flagstaffarizona.org
SC OTTSDALE Experience both excitement and relaxation while you discover the stirring beauty of the Sonoran Desert and the unexpected within Downtown Scottsdale and beyond. With an array of resorts and golf courses, top shopping and unique desert adventure, Scottsdale offers an idyllic holiday. experiencescottsdale.com
S EDONA There's always more to discover in Sedona, and visitors can start by exploring its Secret 7 – the most breathtaking locations for activities ranging from hiking and biking to yoga and the arts. Experience the Red Rock Wonder like a local, for an adventure of body, mind, and spirit.
TUCSON Once you see the thousands of cacti at Saguaro National Park you’ll understand why the Sonoran Desert might be the greenest desert in the world. It gets enough rain to sustain diverse flora and fauna, so it’s far more vibrant than you'd imagine. visittucson.org
sedonasecret7.com
Be inspired, visit visitARIZONA.com
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Rivers and lakes
Go with th Travelling the waterw ays o f
e flo
the S
tate s
Whether travelling along the mighty Mississippi in a traditional sternwheel paddle steamer, lazily exploring hidden inland coves in a houseboat, shooting white-water rapids in a raft, paddling through mangroves in a kayak, sailing the Great Lakes or cruising historic canals, there’s so many ways to enjoy the U.S.’s watery wonders. The country is filled with rivers, countless lakes, canals and coastal waterways. Pictured Main image: Glacier National Park, Montana; Above: catch a steamboat from New Orleans; Right: Horseshoe Bend in the Grand Canyon; Opposite page: explore tranquil waterways by paddleboard
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Rafting for all
From gentle family excursions to whitewater adventures, rafting the nation’s rivers suits all. Raft the Colorado River below the Grand Canyon rim, from half-day beginner trips to multi-day expeditions – even in an electric raft. Other rivers suiting both adrenalin junkies and young kids include Colorado’s Arkansas River, Idaho’s Salmon River and West Virginia’s Gauley River.
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More ideas and inspiration for your next USA experience
SteaM aWaY
You can rent houseboats on around 40 lakes in the U.S. The largest, laKe MeaD, borders Arizona and Nevada. Other popular lakes include Tennessee’s Dale Hollow Lake, Lake Powell (Arizona/Utah), Lake Ouachita (Arkansas) and Shasta Lake (California).
The gReat laKeS have plenty to see below the waves. The cold and deep waters are suited to experienced divers who can discover many shipwrecks, including in Michigan’s Keweenaw Underwater Preserve, in Lake Superior, and Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary in Lake Huron.
Cruise the country’s greatest rivers on traditional paddlewheelers. The American Queen Steamboat Company’s new 166suite American Duchess operates trips including Mississippi River tributaries the Ohio, Tennessee, Illinois and Cumberland Rivers, besides Old Man River itself.
KaYaK the KeYS
Take an eco-kayaking tour around Florida’s Lower Keys, navigating the waters around the mangrove islands of the Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge and National Key Deer Refuge. Nature tours on sit-ontop kayaks through sponge and grass flats and mangrove forests are led by Captain Bill Keogh of Big Pine Kayak Adventures.
CRUiSe neW YoRK’S CanalS Rent a cruiser to explore New York State’s canals. Spanning 524 miles, the system’s four canals – the Erie, Champlain, Oswego and Cayuga-Seneca – form the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor linking the Hudson River to the Great Lakes, Finger Lakes and Lake Champlain.
Our Blog is full of travel tips and inspiring ideas for a memorable USA trip! visitusa.org.uk/Blog
get YoUR WetSUit on
North Carolina’s U.S. National White Water Center is set across 1,300 acres on the Catawba River, near Charlotte. Visitors can don their wetsuits and enjoy paddle boarding, kayaking and rafting, as well as land-based activities including mountain biking and rock climbing, plus a series of festivals throughout the year.
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For up-to-the-minute news, offers and updates on the latest experiences available across the USA, keep your eyes on our website at: visitusa.org.uk
Follow us on:
VisitUSAUK
VisitUSA_UK visitusauk
10/24/17 11:48 AM
Shopping
Retail ther From luxury malls to
quirk
apy
y ma
rket s
clothing from sales taxes, among them Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Pennsylvania.
'SHOP 'til you drop' could have been coined for British visitors heading across the Atlantic, such is its popularity as a holiday activity. Several states either have no sales tax or exclude clothing from sales taxes, while some stores and outlets have further incentives for overseas shoppers – time to hit the shops! GO INDEPENDENT
While the U.S. is known for its malls, visitors seeking something more authentic are in for a treat too. Take Haight-Ashbury in San Francisco or York Boulevard in Los Angeles, for example, where independent stores, vintage shops and bookshops lie amid myriad cool delis and cafes.
NOT TAXING
Five U.S. states – Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire and Oregon – impose no sales tax, with the latter three having no local sales taxes either. Other states exempt
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COOL SHOPPING
Shoppers visiting Miami’s new downtown Brickell City Centre mall can take an elevator ride from its 100-plus designer shops – including Armani, Ted Baker and Hugo Boss – to the new 352room hotel, EAST, directly above.
BIG APPLE BARGAINS
Empire Outlets, New York City’s first outlet shopping destination, opens in March 2018 at the Staten Island Ferry Terminal on Staten Island with around 100 shops, waterfront dining and a 190-room boutique hotel.
SHOPPY BIRTHDAY
Mall of America, the largest retail and entertainment complex in the U.S, celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2017. The Bloomington, Minnesota, complex offers over 520 stores and restaurants, the nation's largest indoor family theme park, the Minnesota Aquarium, and even the United States’ longest indoor zip line.
Open from October 2017, OUTLETS OF DES MOINES, six miles from the Iowa city’s downtown, features 300,000 square feet of retail space and over 65 brand name outlet shops including Tommy Hilfiger, Under Armour, Levi’s Outlet Store, Express Factory Store and Nike Factory Store.
THE CAMBRIDGESIDE MALL, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, has undergone an “energising refresh”. Housing 100 shops including H&M, Macy’s and an Apple Store, the enclosed centre is steps from downtown Boston and was named the city’s best mall and shopping centre by USA Today.
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Be inspired
Six things not to miss in
Houston, Texas
As the U.S.’s fourth largest city, Houston is a thriving metropolis that supports some of the most vivid cultural, art and culinary scenes in the country S pace Center Houston Come face to face with a Saturn V on the tram tour, take a glimpse at the Space Age as you walk through Houston's old Mission Control Center, and shake hands with a real-life astronaut all in the same day at Space Center Houston. spacecenter.org
ouston is H Inspired Mural
O ne Fifth Restaurant
This is the most instagrammed spot in Houston. Check out this wall at Market Square Park and many others like it at Graffiti Park in East Downtown (EaDo). Once you’ve taken the perfect picture, check out one of the restaurants close by.
Enjoy Chef Chris Shepherd’s award-winning creations at One Fifth, which is open for just five years (four left!), focusing on a different culinary concept each year. In 2018, indulge in the Romance Languages, while fish is on the menu from September.
visithoustontexas.com
onefifthhouston.com
H ouston Livestock Show and Rodeo If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Houston during early March, you can't leave without experiencing the city's Livestock Show and Rodeo. Enjoy the carnival all day, and the rodeo show and concert every evening of the three-week-long event. rodeohouston.com
The Menil Campus Follow in Beyonce’s footsteps and head over to The Menil Campus, a 30-acre neighbourhood of art. Check out the main building, which houses special exhibitions, but don’t miss the Dan Flavin or Cy Twombly galleries, or the Rothko and Byzantine Fresco Chapels. Then dine at Bistro Menil. menil.org
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Shopping Whether you choose to stroll through River Oaks District, the Houston Premium Outlets, the Houston Galleria, or explore The Heights, there’s no doubt Houston is a great shopping destination with amazing deals. visithoustontexas.com
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Twin centres
Scenic swa Mix it up for a holida y wit
had
ps
iffer enc e
Combine two U.S. destinations in a single holiday to enjoy the best of both worlds. Mix a summer or autumn shopping trip with a relaxing beach sojourn or fall foliage experience, or twin a winter city break with skiing powder snow. Or how about blending pizazz and casinos in the desert with a tropical resort on the Pacific? A change is as good as a rest, so the saying goes.
Pictured Main image: the bright lights of New York City; Above: carving up fresh powder; Right: the 'fall' foliage of Vermont; Opposite page: New Orleans' southern charm
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Express yourself
Soak up New York City’s sights, cultural attractions, restaurants, shops and nightlife, then hop on the train for a stress-free fiveand-a-half-hour journey aboard Amtrak’s Ethan Allen Express direct to Rutland, in Vermont’s Green Mountains. The train arrives downtown so there’s no need for a transfer, or it’s just 15 miles by road to year-round mountain resort Killington.
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WinE pAirinG
Historic bosTon – home to the must-see Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum – is often paired with Cape Cod, but consider heading north to New Hampshire's scenic WHiTE mounTAins. The area is home to Mount Washington, the highest peak in the north east of the country, and spectacular autumn foliage.
Southern belle riCHmonD oozes charm and history. The Virginia capital was also the Confederate capital and its stately Civil Warera buildings are a big lure. VirGiniA bEACH is an easy two-hour drive away, making a combination of cultural landmarks, family-friendly attractions and beaches a reality.
New London to Portland flights introduced in 2017 make it easier for visitors to pair an exploration of Oregon’s Willamette Valley wine region – home to more than 500 wineries and lauded for its world-class pinot noir – with a taste of the vibrant gateway known as the City of Roses.
Swallow the Big Apple whole We fly to New York JFK 9 times a day
GliTZ AnD CoConuTs
For a complete contrast, link glitzy Las Vegas with the palmfringed beaches of Hawai‘i’s Oahu island. This combination means you can live the high life at a casino resort on Sin City’s Strip then chill out by the Pacific at Honolulu’s famous Waikiki Beach neighbourhood.
bEiGnETs AnD bAyous
New Orleans is easier than ever to reach from the UK following the introduction of direct flights from the UK. Spend a few days catching the vibes of New Orleans and its effervescent French Quarter before detoxing in the natural serenity of mossdraped cypress trees, swamps and bayous in southern Louisiana’s Cajun Country.
slopE off
Fancy a Rocky Mountains city break and ski combination? No problem: non-stop flights to Denver from London coupled with a new Amtrak Winter Express train from the Mile High City direct to the slopes of Rocky Mountains ski resort Winter Park makes it an easy transition from city streets to the piste.
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Visit Atlantic City
Our city, your story ...so the saying goes in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Take a stroll along the iconic Boardwalk to discover the best of the city
S “Atlantic City is the East Coast's capital of entertainment, ranging from Lady Gaga concerts to Broadway shows, comedy clubs and magic shows to rodeos, festivals and beach concerts and more”
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ongs have been written about it. Movies have been filmed about it. Legends have been made on it and stories have been told about it. Since the 1800s, world-famous 'City by the Sea', Atlantic City, and its legendary Boardwalk have been the epicentre of entertainment and people watching. Take a stroll on the Boardwalk to see history and the present day collide, with fortune tellers, eclectic souvenir shops and arcades set alongside amusement piers, classic Boardwalk food and the largest musical instrument in the world. There's more than five miles of scenic beach and Boardwalk that visitors can enjoy at any time of the year.
That's entertainment
Atlantic City is the East Coast's capital of entertainment, from Lady Gaga concerts to Broadway shows, comedy clubs and magic shows to rodeos, festivals and beach concerts. Or take in a boxing match or even midget car racing, all under the bright lights of Atlantic City.
There are also 22 golf courses, decadent spas, boat cruises, fishing and, of course, gambling. Atlantic City is home to seven luxurious casinos, featuring 24-hour gaming, top restaurants, world-class spas and captivating night clubs, all located in unique upscale settings. Among Atlantic City's newest
attractions is the Steel Pier Observation Wheel – the third largest in the U.S. It lights up the skyline of Atlantic City and is open year-round.
Big appetites
When heading to Atlantic City, be sure to work up an appetite because its fresh culinary menu is a tasty mix of old-time Italian,
steakhouses, gourmet restaurants – from an amazing selection of celebrity chefs – plus seafood fresh from the Atlantic Ocean, buffets and Boardwalk delicacies that are sure to please any picky palate or price conscious visitors. And when it comes to shopping, Atlantic City offers some of the best around, including Tanger Outlets, The Walk. There are more than 110 retail establishments here, including Pandora, Coach, Michael Kors, Guess, Banana Republic and Nike – and, what's more, it's all tax-free. Or head to Tropicana Casino’s The Quarter which brings the charm and sophistication of Old Havana to Atlantic City, featuring an eclectic and fun mix of wellknown retailers and restaurants. Take a swim in the beautiful Atlantic Ocean, dig your toes into the white sandy beaches and let the sun and salt air soothe your soul – another reason that draws more than 26 million people to Atlantic City every year. Supported in part by a grant from New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism.
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Be inspired
The highlights of
Atlantic City
A stroll on the Boardwalk is high on most visitors' list but Atlantic City's appeal stretches much further afield
The Wheel at Steel Pier
The Wheel at Steel Pier is a brand new, year-round attraction in Atlantic City. The exciting project is one of several now underway at the north end of the Boardwalk. Spring 2018 will see the opening of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino adjacent to Steel Pier and the new Wheel as well as the re-opening of the former Revel Hotel Casino.
On the Boardwalk
Atlantic City's famous Boardwalk is at the heart of all the action and a stroll along it is almost obligatory! It's a people-watching paradise and there's plenty of entertainment too, from Ripley's Believe it or Not museum to Steel Pier, plus casinos, restaurants, shopping and an array of beach-based activities. Visit at night and you'll experience various light and sound shows.
Teeing off
The greater Atlantic City region is home to 22 championship-standard golf courses within a 30-minute drive, with all budgets catered for. Courses offer the tranquil beauty of wetlands, stunning bay views, challenging topography with deep ravines, rolling fairways, stretches of sand bunkers, tall pine trees and majestic vineyards – something for all tastes.
Absecon Lighthouse
Visit Absecon Lighthouse to experience a slice of nautical history. Opened in 1857 to help mariners navigate the challenging shoreline, visitors can today climb its 228 steps to the summit to enjoy panoramic views across Atlantic City. It is New Jersey's tallest lighthouse and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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“Climb Absecon Lighthouse's 228 steps to the summit and enjoy panoramic views across Atlantic City. It remains New Jersey's tallest lighthouse”
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Six of the best...
Rail jo urneys
1
DURANGO & SILVERTON NARROW GAUGE RAILROAD
Built to haul gold and silver ore from mines high up in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, this venerable narrow gauge railway has operated between Durango and the mining town of Silverton since 1882. The breathtaking route follows the Animas River, skirting canyon walls and sheer drops. Steam engines run the 90-mile round-trip in summer while diesel-powered trains take to the track in winter. Look out for wildlife such as black bears, mountain lions and moose.
2
GRAND CANYON RAILWAY
Opened in 1901, this historic 65-mile Arizona train excursion from Williams to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim takes two hours and 15 minutes each way, travelling through high desert and pine forest
50
landscapes. Reopened in 1989 after a 21-year closure, its restored carriages include vintage Pullman cars, observation cars and two new luxury dome cars. They are pulled by diesel locomotives, although steam engines operate on the first Saturday of the month during summer.
3
COAST STARLIGHT
This spectacular 36-hour Amtrak train covers almost 1,400 miles between Seattle and Los Angeles, hugging the Pacific coastline for long stretches and passing the Cascade mountains, Mount Rainier and Puget Sound. It also takes in Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Sacramento and Portland. Watch spectacular vistas unfold from the Sightseer Lounge Car or the Pacific Parlour Car, with its comfy couches and free Wi-Fi. The train features sleeping and dining cars and also offers business class.
4
CASS SCENIC RAILROAD
This veteran line in West Virginia’s mountains began in 1901 to transport felled trees to a sawmill in Cass. Restored original logging locomotives have direct gearing, helping each wheel cope with the steep slopes. They pull passenger cars – many of them converted logging flat-cars – up switchbacks through a forested state
Pictured Main image: Amtrak's scenic Coastal Starlight route; Inset: the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
park for more than four hours to the summit of Bald Knob, the thirdhighest point in West Virginia. Enjoy glorious views from the peak.
5
MOUNT WASHINGTON COG RAILWAY
No trip to New Hampshire would be complete without visiting Mount Washington, New England’s highest peak. Reach the top aboard the world’s first mountainclimbing cog railway, dating from 1869. Three-hour round-trip journeys in replica coaches offer unrivalled panoramas of the White Mountains and beyond. Excursions run from late April to November, and daily in summer. Biodiesel locomotives operate most trips but vintage coalfired steam trains run early-morning trips daily during the high season.
6
NAPA VALLEY WINE TRAIN
Travel in style through one of the world’s top winegrowing regions aboard elegant, restored 100-year-old Pullman carriages on a 36-mile round-trip journey between Napa and St Helena in Northern California. During the three-hour journey guests enjoy gourmet meals prepared in three on-board kitchens, with an extensive list of Napa Valley wines to accompany them.
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Be inspired
Six of the best things about the
Bradenton Area, Florida With miles of unspoiled beaches and activities to suit the whole family, the Bradenton Area offers authentic Florida at its best A Home From Home Stock up at the local supermarket, relax on your private terrace overlooking the Gulf of Mexico and enjoy some of the best selfcatering accommodation options in Florida. From luxury villas to cosy cottages, each property is kitted out with modern amenities and has its own unique charm. bradentongulfislands.com/stay
Paradise Beaches
Great Outdoors
Explore 16 miles of pure white sandy beaches. With no highrise buildings in sight on Anna Maria Island, you won’t find any over-commercialisation to disrupt the view. Instead, you will likely spot the wild dolphin and manatee who call the waters their home.
Kayak through mangroves or follow the boardwalks as you explore Bradenton Area’s unique eco-systems. Head out on a boat trip to admire the natural beauty of the area, or you may prefer to simply enjoy a cocktail whilst watching the famous Florida sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.
bradentongulfislands.com/play/beaches
bradentongulfislands.com/play/parks
family fun From zip-lining to family fishing and horse-riding on the beach, the Bradenton Area offers endless family fun. Families on Anna Maria Island can also take advantage of the highly convenient delivery service, which provides a variety of family supplies to make holidays with the kids that bit easier. bradentongulfislands.com/play/family-fun
A Charming Downtown The atmospheric downtown comes alive with farmers markets, local breweries and a village of the arts. Just a short stroll from downtown, the Riverwalk is the perfect place to relax, with free concerts, a kids splash zone, a botanical walk, fishing pier and a relaxing lawn.
Retail Therapy Browse locally crafted art and sample your way through the artisan produce in the boutique stores that line the pretty avenues. Or you may prefer to head to the outlet mall and find designer brands at hugely discounted rates. bradentongulfislands.com/play/shopping
bradentongulfislands.com/explore/bradenton
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State round-up
International gateways
Alabama
alaska The Last Frontier
The Grand Canyon State
alabama.travel
travelalaska.com
visitarizona.com
Sweet Home Alabama is more than a song. It's a place where beauty, history, culture and adventure all come together. Rivers, canyons, vibrant cities, white-sand beaches and true southern hospitality. Don't miss the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville – the world's largest space museum – and Barber Motorsports in Birmingham, the world's largest motorcycle museum. Also, the famous recording studios in Muscle Shoals are now open for tours.
More mountains than buildings and more wildlife than people, Alaska is one of the world's last true wilderness destinations. It has the highest mountains, the largest areas of national parklands and the longest coastline in the United States. In fact, it's so big that the best way to get around is by plane – and one in every 87 Alaska residents is an active pilot. The state's rich native art and traditional music is also a popular draw to this epic state.
The Grand Canyon, Monument Valley and Route 66 are among the many iconic landmarks and breathtaking sights that can be found in Arizona. Fused with Native American tradition, travellers can embrace their inner cowboy, explore one of the national parks, experience stargazing in Sedona, or relax in a desert spa. Arizona also has a huge culinary scene that has helped to earn Tucson the coveted title of the U.S.’ first UNESCO City of Gastronomy.
Sweet Home Alabama
ARIZONA
Atlanta, New Orleans
Seattle
Phoenix
Birmingham, Montgomery, Mobile
Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau
Tucson, Flagstaff
ARKANSAS
CALIFORNIA
COLORADO
arkansas.com
visitcalifornia.co.uk
Colorado.com
Arkansas' many highlights include the Clinton Presidential Library & Museum, Johnny Cash's boyhood home, General Douglas MacArthur's birthplace, the WWII Japanese American Internment Museum, Hot Springs National Park, Walmart Museum and King Biscuit Blues Fest. Or how about digging for diamonds and keeping what you find at the Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro? It is the only public diamond mine in the world.
From Disneyland classics and historic oceanfront playgrounds, to awesome outdoor adventures and world-class museums, California is ideal for families looking to be entertained and amazed. Head to Mammoth Lakes for a taste of the great outdoors in the Sierra Nevada mountains, or to Lake Tahoe and its sandy beaches and crystalclear waters, perfect for kayaking. The state is even home to an underwater state park – Emerald Bay.
Colorado offers unparalleled yearround adventure, arts, Western heritage and distinctive cuisine. There are myriad festivals and rodeos to soak up in summer, from The Great American Beer Festival to Telluride Blues and Brews, whilst visitors can enjoy 25 ski resorts in winter. The state's scenic landscape boasts natural hot springs, 58 mountain peaks that top 14,000ft and 11 impressive national parks and national monuments.
The Natural State
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Regional gateways
The Golden State
The Centennial State
Atlanta, Charlotte, Miami
Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego,
Denver
Little Rock
Oakland, San Jose
Aspen, Durango, Telluride
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International gateways
State round-up
Regional gateways
connecticut
delaware
florida
ctvisit.com
Visitdelaware.com
visitflorida.com
In Connecticut, take a wander through quaint coastal towns, stroll along the beautiful shoreline and hike through one of the many state parks. Celebrate a vibrant maritime heritage and explore the campus of famed Yale University. Foodies, meanwhile, will love the chocolate, beer, pizza and wine trails. And don’t miss the luxury spas, fine dining, shopping and world-class entertainment of Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun casinos.
Visit Delaware to enjoy miles of award-winning beaches and fun coastal towns, from Lewes to Fenwick Island, to fit any style. Explore the gorgeous DuPont estates, including Winterthur and Nemours, some of America’s grandest mansions. Admire scenic views at Trap Pond or Bombay Hook. And chart your own path through Delaware’s craft beverage makers, iconic history, beautiful outdoors or delicious food on a Trail of Discovery.
Florida is home to the theme park capital of the world, Orlando, as well as the spectacular Everglades, while visitors also flock to its numerous award-winning beaches. The beaches of the Sunshine State rival any in the world and there’s one for every taste. Find your perfect beach with the Florida Beach Finder at visitflorida.com/beachfinder. The crystalline waters of the Florida Keys, for example, are perfect for snorkeling and viewing underwater wildlife.
The Constitution State
The First State
Boston, New York City, Hartford/Bradley
Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington DC
Hartford/Bradley, Stamford, New Haven
Salisbury
The Sunshine State
Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale
georgia
hawai‘i
idaho
Exploregeorgia.org
gohawaii.com
visitidaho.org
The fresh, floral air energises you. The warm, tranquil waters refresh you. The breathtaking, natural beauty renews you. Look around and you'll see there’s no place on earth like Hawai‘i. The six Hawaiian Islands deliver six unique experiences. There is plenty to see and do, from hiking volcanoes, to night diving with manta rays. From taking in sweeping birds-eye views of the Nā Pali Coast, to exploring Pearl Harbor or surfing the North Shores of O'ahu.
Idaho is ideal for family travellers, outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, or those just looking for a relaxing getaway. The state offers a broad choice of activities: white-water rafting, ranching experiences, Native American culture, biking, golf, wineries and exciting winter sports. Idaho is also home to the Shoshone Falls, also called the Niagara Falls of the West, and Hells Canyon, the deepest gorge in North America.
The Peach State
From the foothills of the Appalachians through bustling Atlanta and down to historic Savannah and the barrier island coast, Georgia is 'the South in a nutshell’. Georgia set the scene for some of 2016's top films and the state's film industry ranks third in the nation. From favourites like Forrest Gump to the action-packed Hunger Games, explore Georgia's entertainment industry and walk in the footsteps of famous characters.
The Aloha State
The Gem State
Atlanta, Orlando
Honolulu
Seattle, San Francisco, Salt Lake City
Savannah, Augusta
Kailua-Kona, Hilo
Boise, Idaho Falls, Lewiston
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State round-up
International gateways
illinois
indiana The Hoosier State
The Hawkeye State
enjoyillinois.co.uk
VISITINDIANA.COM
traveliowa.com
The Land of Lincoln
Experience true Americana in Illinois, from legendary Route 66 to charming towns along the Mighty Mississippi River to presidential history in Springfield, the Land of Lincoln. For the best music, dining and shopping you must visit Chicago. Start your Route 66 adventure by visiting quirky roadside attractions such as the Gemini Giant and the world's largest ketchup bottle and covered wagon, and be sure to stop off at a 1950s-style diner. Chicago
Genuine experiences are waiting to be discovered during a visit to the Hoosier state: diverse geography, eclectic foods, natural attractions and unique history are just some of the genuine experiences visitors can expect to find in Indiana. What's more, mile for mile, Indiana has the richest dining line up in the Great Lakes region – foodies will love the farm-to-table culinary choices, award-winning wineries, microbreweries and distilleries. Indianapolis, Chicago, Cincinnati
Springfield
iowa
Iowa is bordered by the Great River Road National Scenic Byway and the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway. In between, travellers will find charming small towns, warm hospitality and delicious delicacies. The Iowa State Fair is the world's most famous state fair, serving as the basis for the original eponymous novel, three movies and a Broadway musical. And did you know that RAGBRAI is the world's oldest, largest and longest bicycle touring event? Chicago Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Sioux City
kansas
kentucky
louisiana
travelksok.co.uk
kentuckytourism.com
louisianatravel.com
As ‘the’ crossroads for explorers and European settlers, Kansas City, Lawrence, Topeka, Abilene, Wichita, and Dodge City are all rich in famous storied trails. Current cowboy culture remains authentically abundant and accessible to visitors. Kansas is energising, reflecting, relaxing and rejuvenating. It is easy to drive via car, RV, or motorcycle, and food is deliciously local – it's best known for BBQ, fried chicken and 'fixins', and succulent steaks.
Kentucky is the front porch of the South, welcoming visitors with Southern hospitality. While horses, bourbon and bluegrass are signatures, the state is also the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln and Muhammad Ali. Experience fine dining, arts, entertainment and history and follow the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®. The great outdoors comes alive with mountains, forests, rivers, lakes and caves, such as the Mammoth Cave National Park.
Louisiana really is a state like no other in the country. With a rich cultural blend of Spanish, French, African, Caribbean, Cajun and Creole, you will have a genuinely unique and memorable experience. Louisiana hosts over 400 festivals a year, from world famous Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) celebrated throughout the state, to Jazz Fest & French Quarter Fest, to the unquestionably Louisianan Gumbo Festival. Get the festival fever in Louisiana!
The Sunflower State
54
Regional gateways
The Bluegrass State
The Pelican State
Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, New York, Atlanta
Chicago, Atlanta, Philadelphia
New Orleans, Atlanta
Kansas City, Wichita
Cincinnati, Louisville, Lexington
Baton Rouge, Lafayette
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International gateways
State round-up
Regional gateways
maine
maryland
massachusetts
visitmaine.com
visitmaryland.org
MASSHOLIDAY.CO.UK
Maine's majestic mountains, long sandy beaches and dramatic coastline are accented by dozens of lighthouses and combine with picturesque towns, cultural attractions and the finest, freshest seafood. Sail through iconic islands, hike to tumbling waterfalls, explore the rocky granite shores of Acadia National Park, haul lobster traps on a classic wooden lobster boat, or simply sit back and relax in one of Portland's many fine eateries.
From the Atlantic Ocean to the western mountains, Maryland offers many land and waterscapes. Explore big cities and small towns on the Scenic Byways and experience the unique culture of Chesapeake Bay. Don’t miss the new Sagamore Spirit Distillery offering tours and tastings of American Rye Whiskey. And no visit to Maryland is complete without tasting the regional Blue Crab. Other attractions include Fort McHenry, birthplace of the U.S. national anthem.
The Pine Tree State
The Free State
Boston
Baltimore, Washington DC
Portland, Bangor, Augusta
Annapolis
The Bay State
Celebrate, shop and relax in Massachusetts, a stunning state on the U.S. East Coast. Its gateway city, Boston, is only seven hours from the UK, giving visitors easy access to popular areas such as Cape Cod, Boston and The Berkshires. Choose from diverse experiences including tax-free shopping, spa and city breaks, sporting events and fallfoliage, to cranberry bog dining and soft adventure activities. So much to be discovered in Massachusetts! Boston
michigan
minnesota
mississippi
michigan.org
exploreminnesota.com
visitmississippi.org
The Great Lakes State
Visit Michigan to explore more than 3,200 miles of coastline, some of the world’s highest freshwater sand dunes and stunning sandstone cliffs along two national lakeshores. Michigan has more lighthouses than any state, with more than 129 dotting the Great Lakes shoreline. Some still shine, others share their stories as museums. Experience them for yourself as a volunteer keeper or on a relaxing excursion. In Detroit, don't miss the Henry Ford museum.
Land of Sky Blue Waters
Woods and water, culture and city nightlife, active days and awesome sunsets, Minnesota beckons you. Shop `til you drop at the Mall of America, outlet malls and local boutiques – and there's no sales tax on clothing or shoes. Be sure to visit Voyageurs National Park, a water paradise and one of six National Park sites in Minnesota. They also include Mississippi National River & Recreation Area in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.
The Magnolia State
Delta blues and country music; 'down-home' cooking; rich history and heritage; and outdoor activities year-round – visit Mississippi for an authentic American experience. Explore the historic Natchez Trace Parkway and stop along the way at Elvis' birthplace in Tupelo. Choose from the Blues, Country and Freedom Trails for a journey found only in Mississippi. Known as the home of the blues, the state has shaped the course of modern music.
Detroit, Chicago, Minneapolis-St. Paul
Minneapolis-St. Paul
New Orleans, Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth
Traverse City, Grand Rapids
Duluth, Rochester
Jackson, Gulfport, Memphis
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State round-up
Regional gateways
missouri
montana
nebraska
visitmo.com
visitmt.com
visitnebraska.com
The Show-Me State
Missouri is home to Mark Twain, Kansas City jazz, St. Louis blues and iconic Route 66. Its status as a roadway to the west was recognised in the song Get Your Kicks on Route 66, and visitors can explore 483km of it in the state that named her. While on Route 66, don’t miss the new National Blues Museum in St. Louis. And if music takes your fancy, enjoy a detour just off Route 66 to Branson, Missouri, featuring more theatre seats than Broadway.
The Big Sky State
Montana is untamed, wild and natural; a blend of spectacular scenery, intriguing history and recreation. To the north is Glacier National Park, to the south is Yellowstone. In between you’ll find ranches, cattle drives, rodeos, old mining towns and Little Bighorn Battlefield where General Custer made his last stand. Exhilarating adventures abound or simply enjoy a scenic drive or stroll around one of the charming downtown areas.
The Cornhusker State
Handfeed buffalo from inside a covered wagon, snap a selfie with exotic animals at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, or float downriver in a horse-watering tank (like a large bathtub!) while relaxing amid the impressive surrounds of the Nebraska Sandhills. Explore the state capital of Lincoln and its numerous museums or visit Omaha the state's largest city, set on the banks of the Missouri River, or head west into the Great Plains.
Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Atlanta
Denver, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Salt Lake City
Chicago, Denver
St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield
Billings, Bozeman, Missoula
Lincoln, Omaha, Grand Island
nevada
new hampshire
new jersey
travelnevada.com
visitnh.gov
visitnj.org
Epitomised by never-ending skies and wide-open spaces, from the bright lights of Las Vegas to the rugged Wild West countryside, visit Nevada to see showgirls, cowboys, ghosts and ‘aliens’ at play. The landscape lends itself to a huge range of outdoor experiences, from skiing at Lake Tahoe and camping and fishing at Pyramid Lake, to kayaking on the Truckee River and rock climbing in Red Rock Desert. Furthermore, Reno turns 150 in 2018.
A beautiful jam-packed state where you really can do it all. Wake up in the White Mountains and end your day by dipping your toes in the ocean. New Hampshire's four distinct seasons offer plenty of diverse experiences. Ski mountain resorts and hike into the world’s most spectacular fall foliage, or indulge on homemade pies, freshly picked fruits, and seafood chowders. Sail past islands and take trains into the clouds – and you can shop tax-free.
The Silver State
56
International gateways
The Granite State
The Garden State
From beaches and boardwalks to lighthouses, shopping outlets and Edison’s lab, New Jersey offers a wealth of diverse attractions. The state's iconic destinations include Victorian Cape May, the Pinelands, and the beloved Jersey Shore. Learn about the nation’s patriotic past at American Revolutionary War sites in Morristown, Monmouth, Princeton, Red Bank and Trenton. Or check out the bright lights of Atlantic City.
Las Vegas
Boston, New York City, Montréal
New York City, Atlantic City, Philadelphia
Reno
Manchester
Princeton
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International gateways
State round-up
Regional gateways
new mexico
new york
north carolina
newmexico.org
iloveny.com
visitnc.com
Nowhere in the U.S. can one find the blend of Native American, Hispanic and Anglo culture mixed in with such a stunning landscape. The result is an adventure steeped in culture that is present in all you experience. Travel through time in pueblo country and discover the state's heritage. Red and green chile, the state’s number one cuisine, is the pride of locals and the delight of travellers whether it's in traditional foods or chocolate, beer and wine.
New York State may be best known for the 'city that never sleeps', but the state itself is packed full of stunning scenery and amazing attractions that shouldn’t be missed. From the Adirondacks in the north of the state to Hudson Valley in the south, not to mention Niagara Falls and the Catskills, New York State is home to numerous natural wonders. Families, couples and groups can all explore this compact but varied state with ease.
North Carolina invites you in, will stimulate the senses and leave you captivated. From the highest mountains in the eastern United States to over 300 miles of pristine coastline, quaint small towns and vibrant city life. The Wright brothers achieved the first powered flight on the Outer Banks of North Carolina – visit the site to learn about their achievement and take a hang-gliding trip where they pioneered aviation.
Land of Enchantment
The Empire State
The Tar Heel State
Dallas-Forth Worth, Denver, Phoenix, Los Angeles
New York City, Newburgh-Stewart
Charlotte, Raleigh
Albuquerque
Syracuse, Buffalo, Rochester
Asheville, Wilmington
north dakota The Peace Garden State
The Buckeye State
ohio
oklahoma
ndtourism.com
DISCOVEROHIO.COM
Travelksok.co.uk
Create your own legend in North Dakota, where the rugged, untamed landscape of Theodore Roosevelt National Park unfolds across more than 70,000 acres. President Roosevelt’s love for the American West was born here and today outdoor enthusiasts share his passion. Step back in time at the Custer House, soak up the atmosphere of the United Tribes Pow Wow, dig for dinosaurs, or see the original wood chipper movie prop in Fargo.
Cleveland’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Columbus’ world renowned zoo, Cincinnati’s paddle-wheel boats, Cedar Point, the world’s number one-rated roller coaster park and Hocking Hills State Park are all highlights of Ohio. Keep an eye out for members of the Amish community. Although they may be slow moving in their horse and buggies, their population is growing fast with Ohio having the largest Amish population in the world at over 60,000.
Over 400 miles of quirky and historic Route 66 awaits visitors to Oklahoma, coupled with vibrant Native American and cowboy culture throughout the state. 'Down-home' and contemporary chefs have created highly notable urban food scenes, while State Parks offer breathtaking wildlife viewing and outdoor activities, and motorcyclists find eastern Oklahoma’s Scenic Byways a highly rewarding ride.
The Sooner State
Minneapolis-St. Paul, Denver, Chicago
Chicago, Detroit
Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, New York, Atlanta
Bismarck, Fargo, Dickinson
Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo
Oklahoma City, Tulsa
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State round-up
Regional gateways
oregon
pennsylvania
puerto rico
traveloregon.com
VISITPA.COM
seepuertorico.com
Oregon is a state of natural wonders, windswept beaches, verdant forests and snow-capped peaks. With more Scenic Byways and tour routes than any other state and no sales tax there is plenty to discover in this incredibly diverse state. Don’t miss Crater Lake National Park and the 33-mile drive around the rim for some breathtaking scenery. And be sure to Visit Hells Canyon National Recreation Area for equally spectacular scenery.
Pennsylvania is home to outdoor recreation, historic sites, cultural attractions, big cities and small towns. From the Liberty Bell to the views at Pine Creek Gorge, great experiences abound. Esteemed architect Frank Lloyd Wright made his mark on the state, including the Fallingwater house that is built over a waterfall and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Two other Wright designs, Kentuck Knob and Duncan House, are close by.
Puerto Rico combines Caribbean culture with Spanish heart. Known as one of the culinary capitals of the Caribbean and 'the' place to salsa, visitors will fall in love with Old San Juan. Home to an enticing blend of sun-drenched beaches, cities steeped in history and El Yunque Rainforest – the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System – Puerto Rico’s culture and beauty make it a fantastic holiday destination.
The Beaver State
The Keystone State
Portland
Philadelphia
Eugene
Pittsburgh, Gettysburg, Hershey
The Island of Enchantment
San Juan, New York City, Miami
rhode island
south carolina
south dakota
visitrhodeisland.com
SouthCarolinaUSA.co.uk
travelsouthdakota.com
Enjoy Rhode Island's miles of winding coastline, spectacular ocean vistas and the serenity of Block Island. In Providence, the unique WaterFire display of bonfires along the city's three rivers creates a memorable and eye-catching experience. Set plenty of time aside for the elegant Newport Mansions, once extravagant summer homes of the nation’s wealthiest families and now perfect examples from the Colonial, Victorian and Gilded Ages.
South Carolina features 300kms of sandy beaches, resort islands, historic cities, country towns, great shopping, family attractions and world-class golf. Dining includes fresh seafood and traditional Southern cooking. The 'Gullah Corridor' stems from the time when West Africans were enslaved on Southern plantations, and Gullah culture is still very much alive. Its historical landmarks remain popular, shaping a unique way of life in the Lowcountry.
South Dakota, the land of ‘Great Faces, Great Places’, offers infinite variety, reflected in the state's rolling prairies, glittering lakes, granite peaks, towering pines, old western towns and bustling cities. To the west of the state, the Black Hills and Badlands are home to the spectacular mountain carvings of famous Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse Memorial, other-worldly Badlands National Park and the historic town of Deadwood.
The Ocean State
58
International gateways
The Palmetto State
The Mount Rushmore State
Boston, New York City, Providence
Atlanta, Charlotte
Minneapolis-St. Paul, Denver, Chicago
Providence, Newport
Charleston, Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach
Rapid City, Sioux Falls, Pierre
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International gateways
State round-up
Regional gateways
tennessee The Volunteer State
The Lone Star State
texas
u.s. virgin islands
tnvacaction.com
traveltexas.com
Visitusvi.com
From the high-energy big cities of Nashville and Memphis to the unique small towns, to the expansive outdoors of the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee's three grand regions offer an authentic holiday experience that is best described as 'Made in Tennessee'. The state has a rich musical heritage and a dedicated trail from the Mississippi River to the Smokies that encompasses genres as diverse as rock 'n' roll, blues, country and gospel.
Texas offers exciting, unique and outstanding travel experiences that include American cowboy heritage, beaches, festivals, food, history, music, ranches, tax-free shopping and much, much more. Be sure to visit the Gulf Coast, Hill Country, the plains, prairies and lakes of Texas and enjoy the scenery. In the southwest of Texas, Big Bend National Park has national significance as the largest protected area of Chihuahuan Desert in the United States.
The U.S. Virgin Islands are part of the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean and the three main islands – St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas – are each distinguished by their own personality. Despite very much being part of the United States, the islands feel a whole world away. In Trunk Bay, St. John, the underwater snorkel trail is a must-see attraction. The well-marked signs make it easy to navigate and explore the bay's colourful marine life.
USVI
Atlanta, Charlotte, New Orleans
Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston
New York City, Miami, Fort Lauderdale
Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville
San Antonio
San Juan (Puerto Rico)
utah
vermont
virginia
The Beehive State
The Green Mountain State
The Old Dominion State
visitutah.com/uk
vermontvacation.co.uk
virginia.org
Cities, mountains and cultures meet in Utah. With the unmistakable red-rock landscapes of the Mighty Five® National Parks and the fresh powder of the 'Greatest Snow on Earth®', Utah is jam-packed with jaw-dropping landscapes, outdoor adventure and vibrant towns and cities. Hit the many Scenic Byways to explore Arches, Bryce, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion National Parks, and savour the fresh air and blue skies around you.
Vermont is a state for all seasons: spectacular fall foliage, a winter wonderland with world class skiing, springs bursting with colour and summers filled with festival fun. Vermont's 251 little cities, small towns and villages are brimming with character, talented artisans and historic highlights. The state is an ideal vacation for visitors wanting to eat and drink well, and then work it off in the great outdoors whilst getting to know the locals.
Don't miss Virginia's Historic Triangle incorporating Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown, located on the state's South-East Chesapeake shoreline, the birthplace of America. Guests can tour the live archaeological site, visit the living history museum and learn about the decisive battle that ended the American War for Independence. Virginia also has over 280 wineries, 206 breweries and 50 distilleries to choose a tipple from.
Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Phoenix
New York City, Boston, Montréal
Washington DC
Provo, St. George
Burlington
Richmond, Arlington, Norfolk
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International gateways
washington
washington, dc
west virginia
Seattle-WashingtonState.co.uk
washington.org
GoToWV.com
Washington State is the top gateway to the Pacific Northwest, where Seattle crowns the state and regular cruises head north to Alaska. It is a city where art and nature meet and food fantasies match the superb state-grown wines from its 900 vineyards. Three national parks – Mount Rainier, Olympic and North Cascades – provide mountain to ocean vistas and wilderness adventures. The state is the perfect blend of nature and urban sophistication.
Ranked as the number one museum destination in the world, more than 20 million visitors from across the globe visit DC every year to explore its wealth of history and culture. The restaurant scene is booming, with over 200 new openings in the past three years, and the new DC wharf development will bring new restaurants, entertainment and hotels to the waterfront. Go beyond the world-famous attractions and you'll find some wonderful hidden gems.
West Virginia invites you to experience first hand the qualities that make the state 'Almost Heaven' – from world-class outdoor adventure and scenic mountain vistas to cultural attractions and an eclectic mix of dining options. Hidden in the hills of West Virginia is more than you could ever imagine. Whether it's high adventure or lowkey relaxation, your wild, wonderful experience will wow you and leave a lasting impression.
The Evergreen State
Seattle, Vancouver, Portland
The Nation's Capital
Washington DC, Baltimore
Spokane, Olympia, Walla Walla
wyoming
travelwisconsin.com
travelwyoming.com
Wisconsin is bordered by Lakes Michigan and Superior to the east and north, and the Mississippi River to the west. From outdoor adventure and scenic golf courses to fine dining and spas, it offers fun in every form. Follow the Frank Lloyd Wright Trail to nine distinct destinations around the state to experience uniquely designed buildings created by one of the world's greatest architects. Don't miss the 21 islands that make up the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
The Mountain State
Pittsburgh, Columbus, Washington DC Charleston, Huntington, Lewisburg
wisconsin America's Dairyland
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Regional gateways
The Cowboy State
Discover the real American West! Wyoming is 100,000 square miles of mountains, prairies, crystal-blue rivers and alpine lakes. In Yellowstone National Park, witness geysers bursting skyward and spot roaming wildlife. Summer and winter adventures abound in Grand Teton National Park and the towering Teton mountains. Enjoy the thrill of a rodeo, get stuck in on a ranch and discover Native American heritage along the way.
Chicago, Minneapolis-St. Paul
Denver, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Salt Lake City
Milwaukee, Green Bay, Madison
Jackson Hole, Cody, Cheyenne
Visit USA Association (UK) brings together experts from the widest range of states and destinations, travel, accommodation, entertainment and other U.S. travelrelated products and services. The Association and its members are committed to providing you with information that is timely, accurate, specifically aimed at the UK leisure traveller and delivered by experienced travel professionals. The Visit USA website contains plenty of inspiration, expert advice and great offers to help you plan your next USA holiday: visitusa.org.uk
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Travel toolkit
HELPFUL HINTS & TIPS Visitor requirements
1 HAVE YOU TRAVELLED TO THE US BEFORE?
2 The vast majority of UK citizens do not need a visa and can enter the country under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). If you are unsure whether you need a visa contact uk.usembassy.gov HOW DO I ENTER UNDER THE VWP?
NO
YES 4 • You must have a biometric e-passport valid for at least 90 days from entry
1B Check your ESTA is still valid and be sure to update your details online. If it's not valid, you'll need a new one. Reapply at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta
• It is recommended that you have at least one empty page in your passport • A payment of $14 is required WHERE CAN YOU APPLY FOR AN ESTA?
3 To enter under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) you need to register for the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR ESTA?
5 Apply for an ESTA quickly and easily at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta For more information about entry into the U.S, visit uk.usembassy.gov
Power
Insurance
Time
Drivers
Tipping
The U.S. uses two-pin plugs so adaptors are required. Electrical goods from the U.S. may not work correctly in the UK
Medical expenses are high in the U.S. so travel insurance with medical cover of at least £2million is recommended
The 48 contiguous states occupy four time zones: Eastern (UTC -4/5hrs), Central (-5/6hrs), Mountain (-6/7hrs) and Pacific (-7/8hrs)
A full UK driver’s licence is required to hire a car in the U.S. Drivers must be 21 or over – or 25+ with some companies
Tipping in the United States is the norm. As a minimum, tip 15% when dining in restaurants or $1 per drink in bars
BE INSPIRED, VISIT VISITUSA.ORG.UK
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BOOK IT NOW Create the perfect USA itinerary – contact our Visit USA (UK) members Accommodation
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Ground Transportation
Airlines
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(Including Car Hire)
Tour Operators
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Tourism Offices
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Air Sightseeing
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Marketing & PR
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Tourism Offices
Attraction & Theatre Tickets
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Ranch Holidays
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(Regional Associations)
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Campers & Motorhomes Rental
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Shopping
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Travel Associations
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Cruise Companies
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Sightseeing
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Travel Publications & Training
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Events
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Theme Parks & Attractions
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ACCOMMODATION Accor Hotels & Resorts accorhotels.com t: 07921 649252 e: Alexandra.Docherty@accor.com Accorhotels.uk @accorhotels
Best Western International bestwestern.com t: 01732 424280 t: 0800 393130 (Reservations) Best Western @TheBestWestern
Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn grandcanyonsquire.com t: 001 928 638 2681
Caesars Entertainment caesars.com t: 020 3598 8033 e: hpatel_caesars@global-sales.co TotalRewards @TotalVegas
Choice Hotels International Choicehotels.com t: 020 7061 9604 e: sahana_madee@choicehotels.com choicehotels @ChoiceHotels
Handlery Union Square Hotel handlery.com t: 001 415 781 7800 e: abarnes@handlery.com HandlerySF @HandlerySF
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Hilton Worldwide hilton.com t: 020 7856 8235 e: leisuresales.uk@hilton.com HiltonWorldwide @HiltonWorldwide
Hyatt Hotels & Resorts hyatt.com t: 020 7796 9170 t: 0845 888 1234 e: Julie.york@hyatt.com @HyattTweets @HyattSalesForce
Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants Kimptonhotels.com t: 01633 481710 e: info@gregevansconsultancy.com Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants @kimpton
Langham Hotels & Resorts langhamhotels.com t: 020 7636 1000 e: sarah.harrison@langhamhotels.com thelanghamhotels @thelanghamhotel
LE Hotels lehotels.com t: 07834 632 052 e: nicoletta.pilardi@lehotels.com lehotels @LEHotels
Loews Hotels and Resorts loewshotels.com t: 01825 763636 e: Sarah.holmes-siedle@kbc-pr.com LoewsHotels @loews_hotels
Manta Ray Inn mantarayinn.com t: 001 800 255 0595 e: info@mantarayinn.com
Marriott International marriott.com t: 0800 221 222 e: frank.mason@marriott.com Marriott International @marriott
North American Vacation Homes usahomes.co.uk t: 01444 450034 e: navh@usahomes.co.uk
RCD Hotels nobuedenroc.com t: 077251 78976 e: uksales@rcdhotels.com nobuedenroc @nobuedenroc
Relais & Chateaux relaischateaux.com t: 020 7610 1750 e: j.beales@relaischateaux.com
staySKY Hotels & Resorts staySKY.com t: 001 407 992 0430 e: reservations@staySKY.com StaySkyHotels.Resorts
AIRLINES Aer Lingus aerlingus.com t: 020 8234 4336 e: keith.tenn@aerlingus.com Aer Lingus @AerLingus
Air New Zealand airnewzealand.co.uk t: 020 8600 7630 e: airnzuksales@airnz.co.nz
Alaska Airlines alaskaairlines.co.uk t: 01992 441517 e: sales@alaskaairlines.co.uk Alaska Airlines @AlaskaAir
American Airlines aa.com t: 0844 369 9899 americanairlines @AmericanAir
British Airways ba.com British Airways @british_airways
Delta Air Lines delta.com t: 0871 221 1222 delta @Delta
Travel toolkit
Icelandair icelandair.co.uk t: 020 7874 1000 e: (consumer): uk@icelandair.is e: (trade): uksales@icelandair.is Icelandair @icelandair
Norwegian Airlines norwegian.com t: 020 3874 6000 e: UKISalesleads@norwegian.com Norwegian @NorwegianUK
Singapore Airlines singaporeair.com t: 0844 800 2380 e: uk_reservations@singaporeair. com.sg singaporeair @SingaporeAir
United Airlines united.com t: 020 8276 6900 e: lesley.roberts@united.com UnitedUKIE @united
Virgin Atlantic virginatlantic.com vsflyinghub.com (Trade) t: 0344 209 7777 virginatlantic @VirginAtlantic
AIR SIGHTSEEING Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines Scenic.com t: 001 702 638 3300 t: 0800 404 9767 (UK line) e: res@FlyGCSA FlyGCSA @FlyGCSA
Maverick Helicopters & Maverick Airlines maverickhelicopter.co.uk t: 020 8313 1717 e: maverick@ttmworld.co.uk Maverick Helicopters @MaverickVegas
CAMPERS & MOTORHOMES RENTAL Apollo Motorhome Holidays
Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters Helicopter & Airplane Tours. Champagne Picnic tours where you’ll fly, descend, land & walk the Canyon floor. New! Whitewater Rafting & Skywalk Dining Packages. papillon.com t: 01923 283838 t: 0808 189 0325 (UK line) m: 07813 777373 e: Michael.wareham@papillon.com papillon @iflyPapillon
apollorv.com t: +800 3260 5466 e: info@apollocamper.com ApolloMotorhomeHolidays @ApolloCamper
Cruise America Motorhome (RV) Rentals cruiseamerica.com t: 0770 970 2909 (Marketing only) e: international@cruiseamerica.com e: tthompson@cruiseamerica.com (Marketing only) Cruiseamericarv
El Monte RV elmonterv.co.uk t: 01483 500003 e: res@elmonterv.co.uk
Sundance Helicopters – Las Vegas sundancehelicopters.com t: 001 800 653 1881 e: eric@sundancehelicopters.com
ATTRACTION & THEATRE TICKETS Broadway Inbound Attractions & Theatre Tickets broadwaycollection.com t: 020 7831 8105 e: jonathan@made.travel TheBroadwayCollection @BwayCollection
Cirque du Soleil ® – Resident Show Division Las Vegas cirquedusoleil.com t: 07748 842413 e: angie@sloansquared.co.uk CirqueduSoleil @Cirque
Elvis Presley Enterprises Inc. Graceland.com t: 001 901 332 3322 e: Reservations@Graceland.com Elvis Presley’s Graceland @VisitGraceland
The Leisure Pass Group Ltd leisurepassgroup.com t: 020 7580 8060 e: peter@leisurepassgroup.com GoCityCard @GoCityCard
CRUISE COMPANIES American Queen Steamboat Company lightbluetravel.co.uk t: 01223 568904 e: sales@aqgsa.com
Silversea silversea.com t: 020 7340 0700 e: salesuk@silversea.com SilverseaCruises @Silversea
EVENTS Destinations The Holiday & Travel Show in association with The Times, The Sunday Times and the Sunday Times Travel Magazine destinationsshow.com t: 020 7384 8129 e: Rob.Debenham@clarionevents.com @DestinationShow
GROUND TRANSPORTATION (Including CAR HIRE) The Motorhome Experts Nearly 40 years’ experience of selling motorhomes in America means we are REAL EXPERTS. We create personal itineraries, suggest things you will enjoy. Call or email today. themotorhomeXperts.com cruiseamerica.co.uk t: 01304 898159 t: + 44 7768 053259 e: reservations@ themotorhomeXperts.com e: reservations@ cruiseamerica.co.uk TheMotorhomeXperts @MotorhomeXperts
Road Bear RV roadbearrv.com britz-usa.com t: 001 818 865 2925 e: direct@roadbearrv.com RoadBearRV
Worldwide Motorhoming Holidays worldwidemotorhoming holidays.co.uk t: 024 7647 5340 e: worldwide@myccc.co.uk Worldwidemh @Worldwide_CCC
Alamo Rent A Car With over 40 years' experience, 273 locations across the USA and fully-inclusive packages, Alamo is the ideal car hire choice for your holiday. Just relax and drive happy! alamo.co.uk t: 0800 028 2390 AlamoRentACar @alamo
Avis Budget Group Ltd avis.co.uk t: 01344 426644 e: leisuresales@avis-europe.com avisrentacaruk @avisuk
MARKETING & PR Advantage Management Group amgrepresentation.com t: 020 8487 9881 e: info@amgltd.biz Advantage Management-Group @amgltd
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HAT Tourism Marketing
Macerich Shopping Centers & Fashion Outlets
hatmarketing.com t: 020 3044 2761 e: kevin@hatmarketing.com HATtourismmarketing @hatmarketing
macerich.com t: 020 7593 1781 e: solat@hillsbalfour.com MacerichCo
Mall of America
kevinstreit & a s s o c i a t e s global representation
LLC
mallofamerica.com t: 01295 722816 e: georgina@cellet.co.uk MallofAmerica @mallofamerica
Kevin Streit & Associates, LLC KSA offers integrated marketing services & business development in the tourism, hospitality and transportation industries. Ask about our innovative marketing concept with customised strategic planning. consultksa.com t: 001 702 990 3684 UK Skype +44-20-3239-9878 e: kstreit@consultksa.com @kevstreitoursal
Marketing Distribution Services Group
TravelBeat Ltd travelbeat.co.uk t: 07494 487696 e: solutions@travelbeat.co.uk TravelBeatLtd @travelbeatuk
WixHill wixhill.co.uk t: 01483 203 992 e: caroline@wixhill.co.uk @wixhill
RANCH HOLIDAYS American Round-Up americanroundup.com t: 01798 865 946 e: nigel@americanroundup.com
SHOPPING Fashion Island/Irvine Spectrum Center
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The Shops Buckhead Atlanta Over 50 designer shops & restaurants set amidst beautifully landscaped streets. Dior, Tom Ford, Hermes, Jimmy Choo, Brunello Cucinelli & more. Luxury experiences & offers. theshopsbuckheadatlanta.com t: 001 404.939.9270 e: kathy@retailtourism.com TheShopsBuckheadAtlanta @BuckheadAtlStyle
New England Development Exciting shopping destinations including CambridgeSide in MA and outlet centers in Asheville, NC; Des Moines, IA; Little Rock, AR; and Palm Beach, FL. NEDtours.com t: 001 617 965 8700 e: tours@NEDevelopment.com
SIGHTSEEING Blue & Gold Fleet blueandgoldfleet.com t: 001 415 705 8200 e: info@blueandgoldfleet.com blueandgoldfleet @BGFleet
kennedyspacecenter.com t: 07834 918264 e: philip@Ignite-uk.com KennedySpaceCenter VisitorComplex @ExploreSpaceKsc
PIER 39 San Francisco pier39.com t: 001 415 705 5500 e: info@pier39.com pier39 @pier39
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment seaworldparks.co.uk t: 01293 785625 (trade) t: 01293 785685 (consumer) e: sea@cubo.com
Universal Parks & Resorts UniversalOrlando.co.uk UniversalStudiosHollywood.com t: 020 3618 6364 Universal Orlando Resort Universal Studios Hollywood @UniversalORL @UniStudios
Classic Harbor Line
mdsg.eu t: 020 3290 8914 e: info@mdsideas.com mdsgeurope @MDS_ltd
shopfashionisland.com shopirvinespectrumcenter.com t: 001 480 588 5507 e: kathy@retailtourism.com
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
sail-nyc.com t: 001 212 627 1825 e: info@sail-nyc.com ClassicHarborLineNY @ClassicHarbor
River Oaks District Houston
Grand Canyon Tour & Travel
Over 65 designer shops & restaurants set amidst beautifully landscaped streets. Dior, Tom Ford, Hermes, Dolce & Gabbana, Cartier & more. Luxury experiences & offers. Tax Free. riveroaksdistrict.com t: 001 713 904 1310 e: kathy@retailtourism.com ROdistrict @RODistrict
grandcanyontourandtravel.com t: 001 702 361 7628 e: inquiries@gctco.com grandcanyontourandtravel @GCTourTravel
Shop America Alliance shopamericatours.com t: 001 707 224 3795 e: ShopAmericaTours@aol.com
On Location Tours
onlocationtours.com t: 001 212 683 2027 e: office@onlocationtours.com onlocationtoursnyc @onlocationtours
Red and White Fleet redandwhite.com t: 001 415 673 2900 e: sales@redandwhite.com RedandWhite @redwhitefleet
THEME PARKS & ATTRACTIONS Disney Destinations International
TOUR OPERATORS 1st Class Holidays 1stclassholidays.com t: 0161 888 5607 e: usa@1stclassholidays.com 1st Class Holidays @1stclasshols
*Adventure Travel West at-west.com t: 001 303 697 6688 e: info@at-west.com
America As You Like It
americaasyoulikeit.com t: 020 8742 8299 e: sales@americaasyoulikeit.com americaasyoulikeit @TravelAsULikeIt
American Sky americansky.co.uk t: 01342 889 529 e: info@americansky.co.uk AmericanSkyHolidays @AmericanSkyUK
*AmericanTours International (ATI) americantours.com t: 001 310 641 9953 e: sales@americantours.com
disneyworld.co.uk disneytravelagents.co.uk Walt Disney World @WaltDisneyWorld
*Business to business only
Travel toolkit
AmeriCan & Worldwide Travel awwt.co.uk t: 01892 779900 e: info@awwt.co.uk AWWT @Americanwwtvl
Amtrak Vacations amtrakvacations.co.uk t: 020 3327 3500 e: Requests.uk@ylginc.com AmtrakVacations @AmtrakVacations
Audley Travel audleytravel.com t: 01993 838 755 e: usa@audleytravel.com audleytravel @audleytravel
Bon Voyage Travel And Tours bon-voyage.co.uk t: 02380 248 248 e: sales@bon-voyage.co.uk BonVoyageUK @UsaExpert
California Tours Inc. california-tour.com t: 001 415 393 4211 e: tour@california-tour.com CaliforniaToursInc @californiatours
Charter Travel chartertravel.co.uk t: 01635 551 011 e: holiday@chartertravel.co.uk CharterTravel @chartertravel
Complete North America completenorthamerica.com t: 0115 961 0590 e: Enquiry@CompleteNorth America.com completenorthamerica @Complete_N_A
Cosmos cosmos.co.uk t: 0800 223 0952 e: sales@cosmos.co.uk CosmosHolidays @CosmosUK
EXPERIENCE THE
Discover North America discovernorthamerica.co.uk t: 020 7993 6584 e: info@discovernorthamerica.co.uk DiscoverNorthAmerica1
Flight Centre Travel Group flightcentre.co.uk t: 020 8336 5057 e: Adam.Vanstone@uk.fcm.travel FlightCentreUK @FlightCentre_UK
Freedom America freedomamerica.co.uk t: 0333 234 0922 e: assist@freedomamerica.co.uk FreedomAmericaTravel
Frontier America
Just You justyou.co.uk t: 01858 415492 e: sales@justyou.com singletravellers
Kuoni Travel kuoni.co.uk t: 01306 747000 e: holidays@kuoni.co.uk
NAR (UK) LTD
frontier-america.co.uk t: 020 8776 8709 e: america@frontier-travel.co.uk Frontier Travel @Frontierworld
Gold Medal Travel Group goldmedal.co.uk t: 0800 014 7777 GoldMedalAgents @goldmedalagents
Grand American Adventures Grandamericanadventures.co.uk t: 0333 222 3084 e: info@grandamerican adventures.co.uk GrandAmericanAdventures @GrandAmericanAd
travelhouseofamerica.com t: 01344 890400 e: paul@travelhouseofamerica.com
Netflights Netflights.com t: 0203 139 7708 e: netflightsreservations@ netflights.com netflights @Netflights
Newmarket Holidays newmarketholidays.co.uk t: 0330 160 7700 e: contactus@newmarket holidays.co.uk NewmarketHolidays @NewmarketHols
North America Travel Service Established in 1971, awardwinning North America Travel Service offers tailormade holidays throughout the entire USA & Canada. northamericatravelservice.co.uk t: 0333 323 9099 e: sales.enquiries@nats-uk.com North America Travel Service @northamericatvl
Premier Holidays premierholidays.co.uk t: 08444 937 666 e: america@premierholidays.co.uk
Purely America purelytravelgroup.co.uk t: 0844 80 444 80 e: reservations@purelyamerica.co.uk
Titan Travel t: 0800 988 5800 e: sales@titantravel.co.uk titantraveluk @titantraveluk
Trailfinders trailfinders.com t: 020 7368 1200 (Tailormade Travel Worldwide) t: 020 7368 1400 (First & Business Class Travel) t: 020 7368 1300 (Cruise)
Hayes and Jarvis hayesandjarvis.co.uk t: 01293 738522 HayesAndJarvis @hayesandjarvis
If Only…
Travel 2
Ifonly.net t: 0141 955 4000 e: info@ifonly.net ifonlyholidays @IfOnlyPartners
GRAND CANYON
travel2.com t: 0800 0224 182 e: reservations@travel2.com @T2News @SimplybyTravel2
! NEW ng &
i Raft alk Skywng Dini s Tour Call for special offers.
By Helicopter. By Airplane. By Motorcoach. Untitled-1 1
Insight Vacations insightvacations.com t: 0800 533 5620 e: reservations@insight vacations.co.uk InsightVacations @insightvacation
UK line: 0808-189-0325 papillon.com
®
06/09/2017 09:08
Travel toolkit
Travelbag travelbag.co.uk t: 0871 402 1526 (standard) t: 0871 402 1460 (cruise) e: sales@travelbag.co.uk Travelbag @travelbag1979
Travelplanners travelplanners.co.uk t: 020 3542 8888 e: sales@travelplanners.co.uk @travelplanneruk
Travelsphere travelsphere.co.uk t: 01858 415361 e: sales@travelsphere.com travelsphere
TrekAmerica trekamerica.co.uk t: 0333 220 1316 e: info@trekamerica.co.uk TrekAmerica @TrekAmerica
Vacations To America vacationstoamerica.com t: 01582 469777 e: enq@vacationstoamerica.com Vacations to America @Vacs_to_America
Virgin Holidays Virginholidays.co.uk Virginholidays.co.uk/stores t: 0344 557 4321 virginholidays @virginholidays
TOURISM OFFICES ALABAMA Alabama Tourism Department alabama.travel t: 020 8339 6122 e: andy@globaltravelmarketing.org AlabamaTravel
Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau inbirmingham.com t: 020 8339 6122 e: andy@globaltravelmarketing.org GBCVB @INbirmingham
ARIZONA Arizona Office of Tourism (UK) visitarizona.com t: 020 7593 1707 e: KarisM@hillsbalfour.com @ArizonaTourism
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Flagstaff Convention & Visitors Bureau flagstaffarizona.org t: 001 928 213 2952 e: visitorcenter@flagstaffaz.gov FlagstaffArizona @VisitFlagstaff
Visit Mesa visitmesa.com t: 001 480 827 4700 e: info@visitmesa.com VisitMesa @VisitMesa
Visit Phoenix visitphoenix.com t: 001 602 452 6254 e: mdelgado@visitphoenix.com visitphoenix @visitphoenix
Experience Scottsdale experiencescottsdale.com t: 001 480 889 2705 e: ewininger@experiencescottsdale.com
Experience Scottsdale @ScottsdaleAZ
Visit Tucson visittucson.org t: 001 520 770 2147 e: jludwig@visittucson.org visittucson @visittucsonaz
CALIFORNIA Visit California UK & Ireland visitcalifornia.co.uk t: 020 7257 6180 e: info@visitcalifornia.co.uk VisitCaliforniaUK @VisitCA
Visit Huntington Beach – Surf City USA surfcityusa.com t: 020 7845 6394 e: Bcroft@blackdiamond.co.uk VisitHuntingtonBeach @HBSurfCityUSA
Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority tahoesouth.com t: 020 7845 6394 e: info@tahoesouth.com Visit Lake Tahoe South @tahoesouth
Discover Los Angeles discoverLosAngeles.com t: 020 7318 9555 e: information@latourism.org DiscoverLosAngeles @discoverLA
Mammoth Lakes visitmammoth.com t: 020 7240 4071 e: bcroft@blackdiamond.co.uk visitmammoth @visitmammoth
Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism VisitPalmSprings.com t: 0845 498 9980 e: palmsprings@hume whitehead.co.uk VisitPalmSprings @PalmSpringsCA
San Francisco Travel Association sftravel.com/always-sf t: 020 7845 6390 e: maria@blackdiamond.co.uk onlyinSF @onlyinsf
Santa Monica Travel & Tourism SantaMonica.com t: 020 7593 1759 e: santamonica@hillsbalfour.com VisitSantaMonica @GoSantaMonica
Visit West Hollywood visitwesthollywood.com t: 001 310 289 2525 e: keliiholokai@visitwest hollywood.com WestHollywood @WestHollywood
Yosemite’s Tuolumne County visittuolumne.com t: 020 7845 6393 e: adam@blackdiamond.co.uk TuolumneCounty @TuolumneCounty
COLORADO Colorado Tourism Office colorado.com t: 020 7240 4071 e: Emily@blackdiamond.co.uk ColoradoUKIreland ColoradoUKTrade @coloradoUKEire
Colorado Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau VisitCOS.com t: 001 719 635 7506 e: Tourism@VisitCOS.com visitcos @visitcos
Visit Denver, The Convention & Visitors Bureau visitdenver.com t: 001 303 571 9442 e: jbuck@visitdenver.com VISITDENVER @visitdenver
FLORIDA VISIT FLORIDA visitflorida.com t: 020 7871 2915 e: info@goshpr.co.uk VISIT FLORIDA @VisitFlorida
The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel fortmyerssanibel.co.uk t: 020 3697 4339 e: fortmyerssanibel@ fourcommunications.com FtMyersSanibel @FtMyersSanibel
Bradenton Area Convention & Visitor Bureau bradentongulfislands.com t: 020 7871 2915 e: info@goshpr.co.uk VisitBradentonGulfIslands @VisitBradenton
Visit Central Florida visitcentralflorida.org t: 001 800 828 7655 e: info@visitcentralflorida.org VisitCentralFlorida @VisitCentralFL
Daytona Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau - UK & Ireland daytonabeach.com t: 020 3044 2761 e: kevin@hatmarketing.com
Discover The Palm Beaches thepalmbeaches.com t: 020 7593 1781 e: solat@hillsbalfour.com Discover The Palm Beaches Florida @PalmBeachesFL
The Florida Keys & Key West fla-keys.co.uk t: 020 8686 2600 e: info@fla-keys.co.uk Florida Keys and Key West @thefloridakeys
Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB sunny.org t: 020 7593 1700 e: fortlauderdale@hillsbalfour.com visitlauderdale @visitlauderdale
Experience Kissimmee experiencekissimmee.com/uk t: 0133 070 0101 e: jo@vvvglobal.com experiencekissimmee @Kissimmee
Travel toolkit
Greater Miami CVB miamiandbeaches.com t: 020 8877 4514 e: sebastian@firstpr.co.uk visitmiami @MiamiandBeaches
Naples, Marco Island, Everglades – Florida's Paradise Coast paradisecoast.co.uk t: 01732 875 722 e: oonagh@ommac.co.uk Paradise Coast UK @paradisecoastuk
Visit Tampa Bay VisitTampaBay.com t: 07557 256 973 e: jando@thegoldenquill.org VisitTampaBay @visittampabay
GEORGIA Georgia Department of Tourism exploregeorgia.org t: 01825 763636 e: dtully@georgia.org Explore Georgia @ExploreGeorgia
New Smyrna Beach Area Visitors Bureau
HAWAI‘I Hawai‘i Tourism Europe
NSBFLA.com t: 07834 918264 e: philip@ignite-uk.com Visit New Smyrna Beach @Newsmyrnabeach1
gohawaii.com/uk t: 020 7593 1775 e: hawaii@hillsbalfour.com goHawaiiUK
Visit Orlando visitorlando.com t: 020 7403 8800 e: mary@visitorlandouk.com visitorlando @VisitOrlando
Visit Panama City Beach visitpanamacitybeach.com t: 020 7871 2915 e: info@goshpr.co.uk visitpanamacitybeach @Visit_PCB
Visit Sarasota County visitsarasota.org t: 020 7871 2915 e: info@goshpr.co.uk VisitSarasota @VisitSarasota
St. Augustine/Porte Vedra Visitors & Convention Bureau FloridasHistoricCoast.com t: 001 904 209 4431 e: EVazquez@FloridasHistoric Coast.com St-Augustine-Florida @FlHistoricCoast
Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater
IDAHO Idaho Tourism visitidaho.org t: 020 7644 6108 e: AForsdike@aviareps.com Visit-Idaho-UK @AVIAREPSUK
ILLINOIS Enjoy Illinois enjoyillinois.co.uk t: 01295 722 816 e: info@cellet.co.uk EnjoyIllinoisUK @EnjoyIllinois
KANSAS Kansas Dept. Wildlife, Parks & Tourism travelksok.co.uk t: 01292 313969 t: 07796 376030 e: matt@travelksok.co.uk Kansas and Oklahoma Europe @TravelKSOK_UK
KENTUCKY Kentucky Department of Travel and Tourism kentuckytourism.com t: 01462 440766 e: kentucky@deep-south-usa.com
VisitStPeteClearwater.com t: 020 8339 6121 e: gemma@visitspc.com visitstpeteclearwater @VSPC
MANTA RAY INN
LOUISIANA Louisiana Office of Tourism
MISSISSIPPI Mississippi Office of Tourism
louisianatravel.com t: 020 8460 7082 e: louisiana@ttmworld.co.uk Louisiana Travel @LouisianaTravel
deep-south-usa.com/Mississippi visitmississippi.org t: 01462 440 787 e: Mississippi@deep-south-usa.com visitmississippi.org @visitms
New Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau neworleanscvb.com t: 020 8460 7082 e: neworleans@ttmworld.co.uk New Orleans CVB @NewOrleansCVB
MAINE Maine Office of Tourism Visitmaine.com t: 001 207 624 7483 e: info@visitmaine.com e: wmoreau@marshallpr.com Visit Maine @VisitMaine
MASSACHUSETTS Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism massholiday.co.uk t: 020 8464 8483 e: massachusetts@ttmworld.co.uk Visit Massachusetts @VisitMA_UK
MICHIGAN Michigan michigan.org t: 01295 722816 e: info@cellet.co.uk puremichigan
MINNESOTA Explore Minnesota Tourism exploreminnesota.com t: 001 651 757 1845 e: explore@state.mn.us ExploreMinnesota @exploreminn
Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau Bloomingtonmn.org t: 01295 722816 e: info@cellet.co.uk bloomingtonminnesota @BloomingtonCVB
The MANTA RAY INN is a home away from home! With one- and two-bedroom oceanfront apartments, this charming inn offers panoramic views of South Florida's best sandy beach Recommended by Fodor’s - winner of the acclaimed White Glove Award and Number one on TripAdvisor
www.mantarayinn.com
1715 S. SURF RD, HOLLYWOOD, FL 33019
T: 001 954 921 9666 | F: 001 954 929 8220 | E: INFO@MANTARAYINN.COM
MISSOURI Missouri Division of Tourism visitmo.co.uk t: 001 816 444 0991 e: Donnacordle@legacy dimensions.com VisitMO @visitmo
Explore St. Louis Explorestlouis.com t: 001 314 992 0643 e: reichelberger@explorestlouis.com
NEVADA Nevada Commission on Tourism TravelNevada.com t: 020 7593 1735 e: Nevada@hillsbalfour.com Travel Nevada @TravelNevada
Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority visitlasvegas.co.uk t: 020 7593 1779 e: lasvegas@hillsbalfour.com Las Vegas @LVCVA
NEW HAMPSHIRE New Hampshire Division of Travel and Tourism visitnh.gov t: 001 603 271 2665 e: travel@dred.state.nh.us visitnh @visitnh
NEW JERSEY Atlantic City CVA Atlanticcitynj.com t: 01633 481710 e: info@gregevansconsultancy.com AtlanticCityNJ @VisitAC
Travel toolkit
NEW YORK New York State Division of Tourism
OKLAHOMA Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation
iloveny.com t: 020 3697 4301 e: martin.court@nystourism.com
travelksok.co.uk t: 01292 313969 t: 07796 376030 e: matt@travelksok.co.uk Kansas and Oklahoma Europe @TravelKSOK_UK
New York City (NYC & Company) nycgo.com t: 020 7593 1734 e: Unitedkingdom-trade@nycgo.com nycgo @nycgo_uk
Central New York VisitCentralNewYork.com t: 001 607 772 8860 e: judi@visitbinghamton.org CNYTravel @VisitCNY
Hudson Valley / Dutchess Tourism dutchesstourism.com t: 001 845 463 4000 e: dawn@dutchesstourism.com DutchessTourism @DutchessTourism
Visit Ithaca visitithaca.com t: 001 800 284 8422 (toll free) t: 001 607 272 1313 e: sarah@visitithaca.com visitithaca @visitithaca
Wine, Water & Wonders Upstate New York winewaterwonders.com t: 001 585 279 8318 e: gregm@visitrochester.com
NORTH CAROLINA North Carolina Division of Tourism visitnc.com t: 020 8460 3582 e: northcarolina@ttmworld.co.uk Visit North Carolina @VisitNC
OREGON Travel Oregon traveloregon.com t: 01326 250213 e: oregon.uk@btinternet.com TravelOregon @Traveloregon_uk
Travel Portland travelportland.com t: 020 7240 4071 e: visitorinfo@travelportland.com travelportland @travelportland
PENNSYLVANIA Pennsylvania Tourism Office visitpa.com t: 01633 481710 e: info@gregevansconsultancy.com visitPA @visitPA
Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau DiscoverPHL.com t: 01633 481710 e: info@gregevansconsultancy.com discoverPHL @discoverPHL
VisitPITTSBURGH visitpittsburgh.com t: 020 7845 6393 e: adam@blackdiamond.co.uk VisitPittsburgh @vstpgh
SOUTH CAROLINA South Carolina Dept. of Parks, Recreation & Tourism discoversouthcarolina.com t: 001 803 734 1164 e: International@scprt.com Discover South Carolina @Discover_SC
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visitusa.org.uk
Charleston Area Convention and Visitors Bureau charlestoncvb.com t: 07767 660776 e: ihigh@explorecharleston.com Charleston Area Convention and Visitors Bureau @explorechs
Hilton Head Island Visitor & Convention Bureau hiltonheadisland.org t: 001 843 341 8361 e: jreed@hiltonheadisland.org visithiltonhead @HiltonHeadSC
TENNESSEE Tennessee Office of Tourism deep-south-usa.com/tennessee tnvacation.com t: 01462 440784 e: tennessee@deep-south-usa.com tnvacation @TNVacation
TEXAS Texas Tourism TravelTex.com t: 020 8460 1506 e: Texas@ttmworld.co.uk Texas Tourism @TexasTourism
Visit Austin visitaustin.org e: tourism@visitaustin.org Visit Austin @VisitAustinTX
VisitDallas visitdallas.com t: 020 7593 1270 e: katieg@hillsbalfour.com Visit Dallas @visit_dallas
Fort Worth Convention & Visitors Bureau FortWorth.com t: 020 7593 1270 e: katieg@hillsbalfour.com Visit Fort Worth @VisitFortWorth
Fredericksburg Convention & Visitor Bureau VisitFredericksburgTX.com t: 001 830 997 6523 e: tourismsales@fbgtx.org FredericksburgTX @visitfredtx
Visit Houston VisitHoustonTexas.com t: 0049 174 32 666 36 e: anja@apconsulting-houston.com Visit Houston Texas @VisitHoustonTX
Visit San Antonio visitsanantonio.com t: 001 210 207 6834 e: franciscogallegos@ visitsanantonio.com visitsanantonio.com @visitsanantonio.com
UTAH Utah Office of Tourism visitutah.com/uk t: 01825 763636 e: jenni.bridgman@kbc-pr.com Visit Utah UK @VisitUtahUK
Visit Park City visitparkcity.com t: 01428 641426 e: graeme@spiralmarketinguk.com VisitParkCity @VisitParkCity
VERMONT Vermont Dept of Tourism Marketing vermontvacation.co.uk t: 0800 345 7322 e: vermont@wixhill.co.uk Vermont Tourism @VermontTourism
VIRGINIA Visit Alexandria visitalexandriava.com/USA t: 001 703 652 5360 e: LLloyd@VisitAlexVA.com VisitAlexandriaVA @alexandriava
Travel toolkit
Arlington Convention and Visitors Service stayarlington.com t: 001 703 228 0875 e: ecassell@arlingtonva.us stayarlington @stayarlington
WASHINGTON Washington State Tourism
International Inbound Travel Association internationalinbound travelassociation.org t: 001 859 219 3545 e: headquarters@inboundtravel.org IITATravel @IITA_Travel
National Tour Association (NTA)
Seattle-WashingtonStateUK.co.uk t: 01923 839 375 e: Seattle@corecommunications.co.uk SeattleWashingtonStateUK @Seattle_WAUK
NTAonline.com t: 001 859 264 6540 e: headquarters@ntastaff.com NTAnow @NTAnews
TOURISM OFFICES (REGIONAL ASSOCIATIONS)
visitusa.org.uk t: 020 7593 1769 e: info@visitusa.org.uk VisitUSAUK @VisitUSA_UK
Visit USA Association (UK) Ltd
Travel Daily Media traveldailymedia.com e: info@traveldailymedia.com Travel Daily Media @TDUKnews
Travel Weekly Group travelweekly.co.uk t: 020 7881 4800 e: TWsales@travelweekly.co.uk Travel Weekly UK @travelweekly
TTG Media ttgmedia.com t: 020 3714 4108 e: pjacks@ttgmedia.com TravelTradeGazette @TTGMedia
TRAVEL PUBLICATIONS & TRAINING ABTA Magazine Deep South USA We are the official UK representatives and provide all the information to plan a great trip to Alabama, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi & Tennessee. deep-south-usa.com e: info@deep-south-usa.com UKDeepSouthUSA @DeepSouthUSA
Discover New England discovernewengland.co.uk t: 001 603 766 0606 e: info@discovernewengland.org DiscoverNewEngland @newenglandvisit
Rocky Mountain International realamerica.co.uk t: 01825 763636 e: jenni.bridgman@kbc-pr.com The Real America UK @RMI_RealAmerica
Washington, DC & Capital Region USA capitalregionusa.org t: 020 8339 6048 e: tmp.uk@btinternet.com Capital Region USA
TRAVEL ASSOCIATIONS Brand USA
abtamagazine.co.uk t: 020 7253 9909 e: matthew@abtamagazine.co.uk
Online Travel Training Onlinetraveltraining.com t: 020 7812 3800 e: info@ott.travel onlinetraveltraining @traveltraining
Phoenix International Publishing essentiallyamerica.com t: 01403 276091 e: simontodd@phoenixip.com Essentially America @EssentiallyA
Selling Travel sellingtravel.co.uk t: 020 8649 7233 e: enquiries@sellingtravel.co.uk Selling Travel Magazine @sellingtravmag
STAN Scottish Travel Agents News t: 0141 880 4305 e: susan@stannews.co.uk STANSelections @STANSelections
Travel Bulletin travelbulletin.co.uk t: 020 7834 6661 e: jeanette@travelbulletin.co.uk TravelBulletin @TravelBulletin
VisitTheUSA.co.uk USADiscoveryProgram.co.uk VisitTheUSAuk @VisitTheUSAuk
visitusa.org.uk
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Travel toolkit
y it iv Act &B B ys da li o ng H si ch ui s n Cr rt Ra o sp t r es te er in t w es In m l ia ho r ec ts o Sp ot en M s rtm r u pa To A e h v ac ri Co y-D t Fl sor Re e d ad n a M y r SA o U il l a t Ci
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1st Class Holidays
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*Adventure Travel West
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America As You Like It
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American Sky
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*AmericanTours International (ATI)
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AmeriCan & Worldwide Travel
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Amtrak Vacations
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Audley Travel
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Bon Voyage Travel and Tours
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California Tours Inc.
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Charter Travel
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Complete North America
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Cosmos ★
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TOUR OPERATORS
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Discover North America
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Flight Centre Travel Group
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Frontier America
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Gold Medal Travel Group
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Grand American Adventures
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Hayes and Jarvis
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Insight Vacations
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Just You
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Kuoni Travel
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NAR (UK) Ltd
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Newmarket Holidays
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North America Travel Service
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Premier Holidays
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Purely America
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Titan Travel
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Trailfinders
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Travel 2
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Travelbag
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Travelplanners
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Travelsphere
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TrekAmerica
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Vacations to America
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Virgin Holidays
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Worldwide Motorhoming Holidays
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visitusa.org.uk
Tour Ops1.indd 70
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*Business to business only
10/24/17 12:06 PM
MAKE IT MEMORABLE MAKE IT EXHILARATING MAKE IT ROMANTIC MAKE IT fun MAKE IT YOURS!
SC
TX
LA
MS
AL
action, eco-adventure and romance, the memories you make
GA
here will last a lifetime. Come make Panama City Beach your REAL. FUN. BEACH. Plan your fun getaway today.
PA NA MA CIT Y BE AC
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Panama City Beach has so much family fun, heart-pounding
H
FL
VisitPanamaCityBeach.com
10/18/17 03:22 PM 13/10/2017 08:47
ARL IN GTON V IR GINIA
Historic Sights. Vibrant Neighbourhoods. The perfect combination of convenience and value next to Washington, D.C., Arlington is just minutes from the National Mall, Smithsonian Museums, U.S. Capitol, White House and much more. Along with its own national treasures, Arlington is home to lively neighbourhoods and more than 40 hotels with rates up to 20 percent less than in the Washington city centre. To plan your trip to Arlington, visit www.stayarlington.com.
Untitled-2 1
10/24/17 12:07 PM
come face to face
with space Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is part of an active spaceport where immersive experiences get you closer to NASA than anywhere else on the planet. See a legendary spacecraft up close, shake hands with an astronaut, watch rockets launch from Earth and see where we’ll depart for Mars. Explore more at KennedySpaceCenter.com
SEE WHERE ROCKETS LAUNCH
MEET AN ASTRONAUT
COMING SOON TRAIN LIKE AN ASTRONAUT
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10/24/17 12:08 PM 22/09/2017 07:49