Visit USA Travel Planner 2017

VISIT USA 2017 TRAVEL PLANNER

Create your USA experience

Imagine a place where thrills are plenty, activities are many and there is an abundance of ways to explore nature and all that Florida has to offer.

Imagine Kissimmee. Ideally located in Central Florida just moments from Orlando’s world-famous theme parks, Kissimmee offers exciting attractions, outdoor adventures, shopping and dining experiences that will have visitors wanting to come back every year.

For more information on things to do and places to stay, go to www.ExperienceKissimmee.com

/ExperienceKissimmee

@Kissimmee

Contents

WELCOME Welcome to the Visit USA Travel Planner 2017!

Take a closer look at the USA… The Visit USA Travel Planner can help you plan a holiday in the USA, where a vast collection of different destinations and exciting travel experiences awaits!

Our 2017 guide will give you new ideas on areas to explore, from soothing spas to wild west rodeos, intriguing road trips to fascinating festivals and live sporting events to the great outdoors. With its practical map that puts locations and transport options in perspective and the list of all Visit USA (UK) members (pages 58-65) who are eager to help travellers to the USA, the Visit USA Travel Planner can help you organise the trip of a lifetime.

Enjoy your travels, wherever they take you!

Best wishes, Jonathan Sloan Chair, Visit USA (UK)

Be Inspired 6 THE U.S. BY NUMBERS

Journey across this land of superlatives

8 THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Discover the nation's awe-inspiring landscapes

10 SHOPPING & DINING

Fine dining and high-end shopping

14 COAST TO COAST

From beautiful beaches to seaside resorts

16 CLASSIC CUISINE

Map

18 STATE CAPITALS

34

Get a flavour of the country's regional dishes A look at the often unsung cities of the U.S.

24 LIVE SPORT

How to enjoy a piece of the action

26 THEME PARKS

Thrills and spills await at U.S. theme parks

28 ROAD TRIPS

Plan your very own all-American road trip

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 47

From Alabama to Wyoming, get the lowdown on every U.S. state and territory, with highlights, essential information and contact details

30 THE OLD WEST

Travel Toolkit

32 WILDLIFE

57 TRAVEL TOOLKIT

36 WELLNESS

58 VISIT USA MEMBERS

Catch a rodeo or explore by horse-back Up close and personal with U.S. wildlife Take some time to relax and unwind

38 LITERARY INSPIRATION

You've read the book, now visit the location

42 POMP & POLITICS

Take in the sites that shaped the nation

The essential information that's good to know before you go A complete contact guide to help you plan the perfect U.S. itinerary

66 TOUR OPERATORS

Find out the type of holiday experiences offered by a range of tour operators

44 FESTIVALS & EVENTS Ten of the very best U.S. events

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 DESIGNERS: LOUISA HORTON & ROSS CLIFFORD 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 ©BMI PUBLISHING LTD 2016

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Contents ★

BE INSPIRED ★

24

Live Sport

Create your USA experience

28

Road Trips

32

Wildlife

4

30

The Old West

Contents ★

BE INSPIRED ★

14

Coast to Coast

26

Theme Parks

16

Classic Cuisine

6

The U.S. by Numbers

5

Be inspired ★

THE U.S. BY NUMBERS ★

Sizing things up

Pictured: Top – Sequoia National Park is known for its sky-scraping forests of giant redwoods; Above – Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska; Below – the world's largest rocking chair

Above par

At 214 feet below sea level, Furnace Creek Golf Course in Death Valley, California, is the 'lowest' golf course in the world. In Indiana, Brickyard Crossing is the only course located inside a major race track – four of its holes are within the Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval.

On race days spectators use the bunkers as sand pits.

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AMERICA is a land of superlatives. You'll find the world’s oldest national park, Yellowstone (1872); the highest mountain, Mauna Kea, Hawaii, at 14,000 feet above sea level but 32,000 feet when measured from the sea floor; the tallest tree, Hyperion, a 379-foot coast redwood in Redwood National Park, California; and the largest teapot, in Chester, West Virginia.

Also look out for the world’s largest shoe, which is also a house, in Hallam, Pennsylvania; the largest basket, the HQ for a basket-making company in Newark, Ohio; the largest baseball bat, at Kentucky’s Louisville Slugger Museum; the biggest rocking chair, in Fanning, Missouri; the most oversized pistachio, in Almogordo, New Mexico; and the largest revolving globe in Yarmouth, Maine. Then there's the largest thermometer in Baker, California, and the popular Grand Canyon Skywalk, the world’s highest man-made structure.



“From the downright quirky, such as the most people singing Old Macdonald at Sally’s Hootenanny at Allegany State Park in New York to the biggest, the tallest and the most amazing sights, America never fails to dazzle”

Be inspired

Economic giants

Full house

Nicknamed the ‘Big House’, Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor is the largest stadium in the United States. This 'football' stadium for the University of Michigan has hosted crowds exceeding 115,000 people.

If California was a country in its own right it would boast the world’s seventh-largest economy, behind France but ahead of Brazil.

New York’s economy is larger than that of South Korea and Texas.

Bigging it up

America’s largest state, Alaska, spans 663,268 square miles and also has America’s longest coastline, stretching 6,640 miles.

New York City has the largest population but Yakutat, Alaska, is the largest city by area.

Bricks and water At 124 metres long and with seating for 160 people, the bar at the Beer Barrel Saloon in Put-in-Bay, South Bass Island, Ohio, is the U.S.'s longest.

The Florida Keys encompass the U.S.’s most southerly national park, the Dry Tortugas, 70 miles south of Key West. Take a boat trip to Garden Key, where Fort Jefferson is the largest masonry structure in the Americas, comprising more than 16 million bricks.

Pictured: Above – the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a bridge made from glass; Left – a post in Key West marks the southernmost point in the U.S.

BOOK IT NOW!

Turn to pages 58-66 to find your perfect travel partners.

Alternatively, see visitusa.org.uk

Join the Journey Visit Kennedy Space Center Visitor ComplexSM, an active space port where rockets launch and inspirational journeys begin.

Graylineorlando.com 0800.520.0512

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Be inspired

THE GREAT OUTDOORS ★

© Charles Towsend

★

Call of the wild NOWHERE does the great outdoors better – or bigger – than the United States of America. Mighty rivers thunder through the country’s chasms and valleys; winding straight out of the 'wild west' and into Mexico, the legendary Rio Grande and Colorado River offer treasures of the rafting and kayaking kind as they tumble through the Santa Elena and Grand Canyons.

In California’s Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks more than 8,000 ancient sequoias soar hundreds of feet into the sky. And giants of the prehistoric kind have left footprints and bones fossilised in rock around the country, including the impressive Dinosaur Quarry in Utah and Waco Mammoth National Monument in Texas.

Vast mountain ranges, lush forests, lunar-like deserts and miles and miles of pristine wilderness trails all lie waiting to be explored under seemingly endless skies. Dream big and the U.S. will deliver, every time.

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Pictured: Top left – Badlands National Park, South Dakota; Main image – rafting on California's Tuolumne River; Above left – Kenai Wildlife Refuge, Alaska

Head into the wild

2016 marked the 100th anniversary of the U.S. National Park Service, established a century ago to preserve America’s wildest places. From the world-famous Yellowstone (the nation's first ever national park) to the scenically stunning Acadia National Park in Maine, with its glacier-scoured peaks, each of these protected areas reveals a staggering range of awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Be inspired

Take to the water

National Parks Experience the diversity of the country’s parks in the popular documentary America Wild: National Parks Adventure.

Mountain bikes are a good way to explore destinations such as Utah's Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park.

The U.S. has some wonderful waterways to discover. Raft the big water of Idaho’s Salmon River, take a leisurely paddle on Virginia’s Shenandoah River or float along Wyoming’s Snake River, depending on your need for speed.

Get outdoors in Guam

Floating in the Pacific Ocean, the U.S. territory of Guam is the perfect tropical escape, with spectacular white-sand beaches and luxury hotels. The largest island in Micronesia is also a diving hot-spot and a great place for outdoor adventures.

Pictured: Above – ziplining in Montana; Opposite page, below right – the stunning Lake Tahoe region

Hit the trails

Some of the world’s best hiking can be found on the trails that criss-cross the U.S., including the east coast’s 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail that stretches 2,650 miles through the Sierra Nevada.

Why only experience the landscape from afar…

BOOK IT WITH...

Worldwide Motorhoming Holidays 024 7647 5340 worldwidemh.co.uk/usa

when you can see it up close

Come with us and you won’t just see the sights, you’ll experience the real country. Try new activities. Meet local people. Take in a different view.

Discover the Americas like never before, travelling in real time.

For our full range of small group tours in North, Central and South America visit grandamericanadventures.com or call 0333 003 8243

Real Americas Real Adventure

Be inspired ★

SHOPPING & DINING ★

Glitz and glamour

Pictured: Top – splashing the cash on Beverley Hills' Rodeo Drive; Above – upscale shopping at Fashion Island, Newport Beach

Shop ‘til you drop

The Western Hemisphere’s largest retail and entertainment complex and America’s most visited attraction, Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, has 520 designerbrand shops, with no sales tax on clothing or shoes. It's also home to 60 restaurants, America’s largest indoor theme park, an indoor zip line and a walk-through aquarium!

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BRITS just love to shop when they visit the U.S. In fact 88% indulge, beating sightseeing and visiting national parks and monuments as their favourite things to do.

But while we all like a bargain, discerning travellers should make for the high-end boutiques and stores of America’s most glamorous shopping streets. Among them are New York’s Fifth Avenue, Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, Worth Avenue in Palm Beach, Florida, and Chicago’s Michigan Avenue – not to mention the upmarket stores of casino resorts along Las Vegas Boulevard, the city’s famous Strip.

And when it comes to cuisine, the U.S. is very much at the top table. New York alone accounts for some 75 of the nation's 145 Michelin-starred restaurants, with many also honoured in Chicago and the San Francisco Bay area.



“Nowhere combines top shopping and fine dining better than the U.S., whether browsing boutiques in Los Angeles or designer stores in Delaware’s Dover Mall or eating a ribeye overlooking Central Park or enjoying Cocina Criolla in Puerto Rico”

VIP foodie tours

Top dollar

Diners will need to fork out $595 for dinner at America’s most expensive eatery, New York’s three Michelinstarred sushi restaurant, Masa.

Upscale shopping group Simon Property’s Premium Outlets offers savings of between 25% and 65% on designer label brands in states from Maine to Alaska.

Lip Smacking Foodie Tours offers VIP food tours in Las Vegas, visiting up to five top Strip or downtown restaurants. Guests enjoy three to four signature dishes at each restaurant and a guided walking tour with insider information along the way.

Upping the ante

Among America’s most upscale malls are the Beverly Centre in Los Angeles, which offers a dedicated luxury wing for VIP shoppers, and Americana Manhasset, housed in designer glass buildings on Long Island’s swanky North Shore.

Appointment only

The House of Bijan on Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, is regarded as the most expensive store in the world. Monarchs, presidents and A-list celebrities are among the clientele of this exclusive, marblefloored menswear boutique – but don't just turn up as you need an appointment to shop there.

Pictured: The Irvine Spectrum Center, an outdoor shopping mall in Orange County, California, features over 130 stores, a multi-screen cinema, a giant Ferris wheel and a carousel

SHOP WITH...

Simon Shopping Destinations simon.com

VISIT MISSISSIPPI The Magnolia State

M is for Mississippi…

North America's longest river is known in native American folklore as the 'Father of Waters', but Mississippi is much more than its namesake river A

is for artists' colony

At Bay St. Louis on the Gulf Coast, there are fabulous clapboard houses, studios, boutiques and quirky stores along the beach.

B

is for Biloxi

Also on the Gulf Coast, once Mississippi’s seafood capital, Biloxi is home to a Shrimp Festival, white sand, casinos, golf, kayaking and dolphin-watching.

C is for Columbus

Nestled on the banks of the TennesseeTombigbee Waterway, Columbus is the childhood home of Tennessee Williams. Catfish in the Alley is a celebration of the city’s cultural heritage, with live music by leading blues artists.

D

is for Delta

The Mississippi Delta is known as 'The Most Southern Place on Earth'.

The cotton fields of the Delta birthed the blues, America’s first original music, and artists such as Charley Patton, Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters and BB King.

E

is for elegance

Elegance is found in the antebellum mansions of historic Natchez. The Spring and Fall Pilgrimages, when all homes are open, feature costumed guides, hooped skirts, rocking chairs on the porch and mint juleps.

F

is for Frank Gehry

Famous for designing the Guggenheim in Bilbao and LA's Walt Disney Concert Hall, Frank Gehry also designed the stunning Ohr O’Keefe Museum in Biloxi that commemorates the work of George Ohr, known as 'the Mad Potter of Biloxi'.

G

is for GRAMMY

The GRAMMY Museum Mississippi in Cleveland is an exciting interactive celebration of the power of music.

Engaging and inspirational, it’s the only one outside Los Angeles!

H

is for Hot Tamales

Ubiquitous as the sandwich in Latin America and also in the Mississippi Delta. In restaurants, on street corners, and in kitchens throughout the Delta, this very old culinary tradition remains vibrant and there is even a Tamale Trail.

I

is for islands

Horn, Cat, Ship, Grand and Petit Bois islands are all a short ferry ride from Mississippi’s Gulf Coast playground.

J

is for Jackson

The state capital since 1821 and home to the Rhythm and Blues Festival which celebrates the city’s rich musical heritage the third weekend of every August.

K

is for King

...as in bluesman B.B. King who is honoured and enshrined at the B.B King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center in Indianola.

L

is for legends

William Faulkner, Morgan Freeman John Grisham, Elvis Presley, Jimmie Rodgers and Tennessee Williams all hail from Mississippi.

M

is for Meridian

The birthplace and museum of Country music legend Jimmie Rodgers who was variously known as 'The Singing Brakeman', 'The Blue Yodeller' and 'The Father of Country Music'.

N

VISITMISSISSIPPI.ORG 12

is for Natchez Trace

The ancient Native American trading route stretching from Natchez to

Be inspired

VISIT MISSISSIPPI The Magnolia State

Nashville and now one of the most scenic drives in North America.

O

is for Oxford

Oxford is a college town immortalised by the writings of William Faulkner. Visit his home, Rowan Oak, and the bars and boutiques on the fabulous square.

P

is for Phillips Grocery

In Holly Springs, there’s nothing 'fast' about this place serving one of the top three 'Perfect Burgers' in America, according to USA Today.

T

is for Tupelo

Tupelo is the birthplace of Elvis Presley. Experience the first part of Elvis’ story, from the shotgun shack where he took his first breath to the church where he sang his first song and the hardware store where he strummed his first guitar.

U

is for Under-the-Hill

In Natchez, this is a former smuggler’s haunt and now an entertainment district with bars and restaurants on the banks of the Mississippi.

Q is for the Quapaw Canoe Company

V is for Vicksburg

Experience the mighty Mississippi River in dugout canoes and camp out overnight on sandbars.

During the American Civil War President Abraham Lincoln said Vicksburg was the “key to the South and winning the war”.

The city endured a 47-day siege before surrendering and the epic battle is recounted at the haunting National Military Park.

R

is for river

The mighty Mississippi, one of the world's largest rivers is known variously as Ol’ Man River, Big Muddy and the Father of the Waters.

is for Sturgis and The RALLY S

Held every August, it features thousands of motorcycles with games, shows, dinner rides, a poker run, food trucks and live music.

planter and a product of slave labour, the 23-room masterpiece burned down in 1890 – but its haunting beauty remains.

is for extraordinary

X

In the middle of the Delta, in the small town of Greenwood, there is a European boutique-style hotel called The Alluvian, so named after the alluvial plains nearby. It is simply exquisite.

Y

is for Yazoo City

Yazoo City has a historic and colourful downtown, not to mention the Glenwood Cemetery, voted the second spookiest cemetery in the U.S., which holds a grave surrounded by chain links known as The Witch’s Grave.

W is for Windsor Ruins

Built in the late 1850s by a wealthy cotton

Pictured: Above – the Grammy Museum; Below – Elvis statue at Tupelo State Church; Opposite page – Ocean Springs Main Street; Highway Blues sign

Z is for ZZ Top

The legendary band are sponsors of the Delta Blues museum in Clarksdale.

VISITMISSISSIPPI.ORG 13

Be inspired ★

COAST TO COAST ★

Pictured: Left – a surfer's day is done at Pensacola, Florida; Above – Myrtle Beach, a traditional holiday resort on South Carolina's Atlantic coast

Enjoy a Siesta

Hitting the beach WHAT'S your idea of a perfect beach?

Secluded and wild, with crashing waves and wind-swept dunes?

Fun for the kids with rock pools, water sports and dolphins splashing off-shore? Or maybe it’s on a tropical island, with a reef to explore and a hammock under a swaying palm?

With 95,471 miles of shoreline, the U.S. is guaranteed to have the perfect beach playground for you.

Perhaps you’ll choose the golden, sporty sands of California, or maybe you’ll prefer to party in the cool bars and clubs along Miami’s South Beach. Those looking for some R&R can while the days away beachcombing on the beautiful barrier islands of Florida’s Gulf Coast, or escape to the holiday havens of Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket in Massachusetts.

Or for a different view, head to the volcanic, black-sand beaches of Pacific paradise, Hawaii.

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Frequently ranked on the World’s Best Beaches lists, Siesta Beach in Florida’s Sarasota has undergone a $21.5million renovation with improved parking, new playground, sun deck and café. But the real star is Siesta’s blindingly white stretch of pure quartz sand.

Go off-road

Drive along an endless beach beside the ocean at North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Its 200mile stretch of unspoilt barrier islands provide the perfect sandy highway. Head out in a four-wheel-drive from Carova for your chance to spot free-roaming Banker horses too.

Add some sparkle

Some sands dazzle by day but in Puerto Rico’s Mosquito Bay, on the island of Vieques, the sea sparkles by night. Microscopic organisms in the waters of the lagoon emit a bright bluegreen light from dusk until dawn, making it the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world.

BOOK IT WITH...

Flight Centre 0800 280 8905 flightcentre.co.uk

Sun kissed

California is known for its incredible sandy beaches but Glass Beach on the Golden State’s Mendocino Coast is a particular gem, covered in millions of sea-polished glass and pottery pebbles.

Need a break from the city? Head to a boutique hideaway in The Hamptons, a collection of laidback beach towns on the eastern end of Long Island, just a few hours by train from New York.

Be inspired

VISIT BRADENTON Old Florida charm

Bradenton Area

Coastal living

FAVOURITES

Florida's Bradenton Area offers visitors a chance to see the real Florida and experience unspoiled charm and culture 

“For people wanting to see real-life, no-frills Florida, Cortez village is a must-see.

It is the oldest working fishing village in Florida which ships fresh fish all over the world. It also has a fish market, a maritime museum and, best of all, it's free to visit!”

W

ith miles of unspoiled beaches, seaside villages, charming downtowns and fantastic shopping opportunities, the Bradenton Area offers a charming and laid-back choice for those looking for a relaxing break.

On Anna Maria Island, you’ll struggle to find any over-development, with no chain hotels or restaurants along the seven miles of white sandy beach. Instead you will find selfcatering apartments and holiday homes that are full of character and provide visitors with a real homefrom-home feeling.

Charm in bucket loads

The Bradenton Area and Anna Maria Island offer a unique charm to the beautiful Gulf coast. On the island, you'll find boutique stores, independent eateries and free

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SOUTH FLORIDA MUSEUM Specialises in the history of Florida’s Gulf Coast, with cultural and historical exhibits and it's also home to the world’s oldest living manatee. southfloridamuseum.org

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transport to take you to any of the unspoiled beaches along its shores.

pineavenueshops.com

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Family-friendly

The laid-back vibe, coupled with an array of events and activities, not to mention the stunning natural environment, make Bradenton Area a great spot for families. The island delivery service can even drop off and pick up all your family needs, from push chairs to beach toys.

TREEUMPH! Swing into action with ziplining, bungee swings and a whole lot more at southwest Florida’s only elevated adventure course. treeumph.com

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Outdoor adventures

Head out on to the water and you're likely to see manatees and dolphins out in their natural environment.

Try out horse surfing, fly-boarding, paddleboard yoga or zip-lining. Set sail with the family, head out snorkelling, jet-ski around the Gulf of Mexico, and finish the day off with an alfresco seafood dinner.

PINE AVENUE Take a gentle stroll along Pine Avenue on Anna Maria Island and pick up a few souvenirs along the way. Discover charming boutiques, arts and crafts, gourmet food and shabby chic furniture.

EMMERSON POINT PRESERVE Emmerson Point is a unique point at the mouth of the Manatee River where it meets Tampa Bay. Visitors can take in the local wildlife and explore the trails. mymanatee.org

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ELLENTON PREMIUM OUTLET MALL Over 100 outlet stores in this outdoor premium outlet mall offer anything from 25% to 65% reductions on your favourite designer brands. premiumoutlets.com

Discover BRADENTON HOMES TRIP ADVISOR recently included Anna Maria Island in its Top 30 Rising Vacation Rental Destinations in the U.S. and with more people wanting independent holiday homes than ever, now is a good time to check out which elegant oceanfront mansion or cute cottage is right for you. With longer-term leasing options, you can get comfortable and stay a while.

Anna Maria Island has no high-rise buildings and all accommodation is three storeys or less.

GO LOCAL THE BRADENTON AREA is proud of its strength in agri-tourism, with many restaurants and shops sourcing locally produced, organic products.

Mixon Fruit Farms, in downtown Bradenton, is a unique attraction where you can not only visit the delicious tasting counter but also tour the grove and pick out your own freshly farmed fruit. Or visit Dakin Dairy Farm and one of its seasonal festivals to see this working farm in action.

BRADENTONGULFISLANDS.COM

GET ACTIVE THE IMG ACADEMY has trained the best athletes in the world, including Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova.

Visitors can train with the best and take part in a short course at the academy. Alternatively, with the World Rowing Championships coming to SarasotaBradenton in September 2017, visitors may prefer to row or kayak where the best rowers will be in 2017.

In Ellenton, the Ice and Sports Complex hosts Olympic �igure skaters during the off-season.

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Be inspired ★

CLASSIC CUISINE ★

Food glorious food FROM sea to shining sea, America’s states cook up a veritable feast of classic dishes. The influx of colonists, settlers and immigrants from all over the world, coupled with the customs of indigenous Native Americans, has resulted in probably the most diverse range of culinary experiences of any country.

While some cities are inextricably linked with signature creations – think Philadelphia’s Philly cheese steak, Chicago’s deep-pan pizza and New Orleans’ jambalaya – so too are various states. Well-known dishes include Florida’s Key lime pie, Georgia peach pie, Maine lobster, Maryland crab cakes, Massachusetts clam chowder and Washington sockeye salmon. Other much-loved staples include s’mores (toasted marshmallow sandwiched), twinkies (cream-filled cakes), corn dogs and, not forgetting America’s favourite, apple pie.  “North Carolina offers an authentic taste of the U.S., from fresh seafood cooked in front of you to tasty barbecues. Its breweries and distilleries are gaining an international reputation too, with their roots in the rich heritage of moonshine”

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City of Gastronomy

Tucson has become the first U.S. city to be designated a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. The Arizona city was recognised for its diverse restaurants blending Old World and New World cuisine, its long agricultural heritage, its use of indigenous ingredients and the University of Arizona’s highlyregarded food biodiversity conservation programmes.

Family favourites

The Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City is Florida’s oldest restaurant and the largest Spanish restaurant in the world. Owned and operated by five generations of the same family for over 110 years, menu favourites include Cuban sandwiches (first dished up in the 1890s for local cigar workers) and paella.

Follow the ale trails

Scoop Ice cream lovers can take a tour of the Waterbury headquarters of Ben & Jerry’s – it's Vermont’s most popular attraction.

Slow Food USA – which promotes the pleasures of eating while protecting local culture and the environment – has more than 6,000 members, including restaurants, cafes and bars.

Craft beer has become all the rage across the United States in recent years. You can taste a selection while getting a feel for local culture on craft beer trails in states including Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Maine, Montana, New York, Oregon and Virginia.

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Entertainment | Bay Cruises | Dining | Shopping | & More

04/10/201

Pictured: Opposite page, inset – Florida's Key lime pie; Above left – service with a smile at Bo Brooks of Baltimore; Below – Genesee has been brewing beer in Rochester, New York State, for over 130 years Great Nightlife

Fun Shopping

Amazing Food

BOOK IT NOW!

Turn to pages 58-66 to find your perfect travel partners.

Alternatively, see visitusa.org.uk

1978

2017

A YEAR TO CELEBRATE IN SAN FRANCISCO THE EMBARCADERO @ BEACH STREET | 1.415.705.5500 | PIER39.COM

Be inspired ★

STATE CAPITALS ★

Capital gains

Pictured: Top – Louisiana's impressive state capitol building in Baton Rouge; Above – downtown Nashville; Opposite page – European-style architecture in New York State's capital, Albany

Horsing around

Oklahoma City has been transformed over the past two decades with over $5billion of public and private investment turning it into a fun, active destination. It is also known as the Horse Show Capital of the World and preserves its Western heritage in the Historic Stockyards City.

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WHILE America’s big cities often grab the limelight the nation's state capitals are too often overlooked by visitors.

Although some capitals are also their state’s main tourism hubs – such as Denver, Boston and Nashville – others are smaller but no less lively or captivating.

Montpelier, Vermont, the smallest of all 50 state capitals, is big on arts, music and eating out, for example, while others, like Carson City, Nevada, are popular bases for outdoor activities.

Meanwhile, Beaux Arts, Neoclassical, Romanesque, Gothic Revival and Renaissance are among architectural styles to be found in state capitol buildings, often gold-domed and with lavish interiors.

Among the finest are those of Des Moines (Iowa), Boise (Idaho), Hartford (Connecticut) and Frankfort (Kentucky).

␇

“Weekends away in America’s lesser-known capital cities could soon be the next big thing. Forget Europe's classical architecture and instead take a tour of one of the USA's historic or Art Deco state capitol buildings”

TAILOR-MAKE YOUR PERFECT USA HOLIDAY with

Virginia's star city

Gold rush

Bismarck was renamed from Edwinton in honour of Germany’s chancellor, Otto von Bismarck, to attract German immigrants after gold was discovered in the Black Hills in 1874.

California’s fourth-largest city, Sacramento, bustles with quirky bars, breweries, wineries and farm-to-table restaurants. Go gold panning in Old Town Sacramento, which recreates the City’s Gold Rush era.

Richmond’s grand capitol building was designed by America’s future third president, Thomas Jefferson.

Statue-lined Monument Avenue is the only U.S. street designated a National Monument.

Aiming high

At 450 feet high the Louisiana State Capitol building in Baton Rouge is America’s tallest capitol building and features a 27th-floor observation deck. It also has a darker side: it was the brainchild of governor Huey Long who was assassinated in its hallway in 1932.

A column still bears a bullet hole.

Ghostly goings on

New York State’s striking capitol building in Albany resembles a European chateau with its Romanesque Revival and NeoRenaissance blend. Finished in 1899, it took 22 years to build and is supposedly haunted by ghosts including artist William Morris Hunt, who painted its murals.

With a reputation for creating unforgettable tailor-made holidays, we strive to provide the best service and advice possible to meet your travel needs.

As award-winning experts in escorted tours, self-drives weddings, honeymoons and so much more, we’re sure we can find the perfect adventure for you. Whether it’s wandering the mesmerising streets of Boston & Washington DC, driving the open roads of Route 66 or experiencing the magic of the Grand Canyon’s Wild West, our experienced and knowledgeable travel advisors are happy to help.

Tailor-made holidays • Escorted Coach Tours • Fly-Drives • City Breaks • Cruises • Weddings & Honeymoons visit www.americansky.co.uk or call our specialists on 01342 886227

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15/10/2015 15:28

Visit teNNessee The real thing

America's soundtrack Head on down to Tennessee for a taste of the real America and to experience the best of its musical heritage ↸

“Tennessee’s history is discovered at places like Stones River National Battlefield. Visit iconic Rock City and Ruby Falls in Chatanooga.

And don't miss Memphis' National Civil Rights Museum and Titanic, Pigeon Forge.

Come discover 'the Soundtrack of America'”

T

ennessee is all about authentic experiences. Whether in the major cities of Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville or Chattanooga, or in some of America’s most inspiring small towns, like Franklin, Collierville or Cleveland, Tennessee delivers hospitality and a true American experience.

When it comes to music, Tennessee brings the foot-tapping, soul-saving kind – the blues, rock ‘n’ roll, soul, country, gospel and everything in between. Tennessee’s creative spirit is the stuff America was built on. It is infused into every sip of Jack Daniel’s oak-barrel-aged amber gold and every bite of “I’ve-died-andgone-to-heaven” Memphis barbeque.

The state’s beauty is highlighted by

Tennessee FAVoUrites

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ROCK CITY GARDENS, LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN This is an award-winning geological wonder and the nearby National Park Service’s American Civil War Battlefield at Point Park recounts the 'Battle Above The Clouds'. seerockcity.com

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THE TITANIC MUSEUM This attraction in Pigeon Forge tells the story of the famous ship and its only voyage. Visitors receive a short biography of someone who was on the ship and not until the tour ends do you learn that person’s fate. titanicpigeonforge.com

America’s most visited national park – the Great Smoky Mountains.

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Making music

America’s soundtrack was and continues to be made in Tennessee by legends like Johnny Cash and Tina Turner and superstars like Dolly Parton and Justin Timberlake.

Admirers pay homage to Elvis at Graceland in Memphis and channel soul and the blues on Memphis’ iconic Beale Street.

They celebrate country music's beginnings at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol and revel in the continuing story at Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and the Grand Ole Opry. And a visit to the Tina Turner

TANGER OUTLET CENTRE Shop your way through more than 100 high-end name brand outlets at Tanger Outlet Center in Sevierville. tangeroutlet.com

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THE RYMAN AUDITORIUM This attraction in Nashville celebrates 125 years of live music and entertainment in 2017 with a calendar full of special events and concerts. ryman.com

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THE WEST TENNESSEE DELTA HERITAGE CENTER Pay tribute to local girl, Anna Mae Bullock, better known as Tina Turner. The Queen of Rock is celebrated at the historic Flagg Grove School. westtnheritage.com

Tennessee highlights NAshVille The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, often called the 'Smithsonian of Country Music', celebrates 50 years of the comprehensive and vibrant telling of the country music story.

The museum’s historic property, RCA Studio B, on Music Row, honours 60 years of landmark recordings from musical icons such as Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton and hosts Nashville’s only recording studio tour.

Visitors can also tour Hatch Show Print, one of the oldest working letterpress shops in America, located inside the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Music lovers in Nashville can also take in a show at the world-famous Grand Ole Opry. Visit Honky Tonk Highway and visit one of the many venues serving up drinks and country music, you never know who you might see in the Lower Broadway clubs.

tNVAcAtioN.coM

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MooN pie In 1917 a travelling salesman for the Chattanooga Bakery fulfilled a Kentucky coal miner’s wish for a snack 'as big as the moon.'

The Moon Pie, made from graham cracker cookie and marshmallow, was filling, fitted in the lunchbox and the coal miners loved it. Visit the Moon Pie General Store in Chattanooga and take a savoury trip down a 100 year-old memory lane. The unique shop is filled with merchandise, toys, gifts and souvenirs.

Be inspired

VISIT TENNESSEE

© EPE. Graceland and its marks are trademarks of EPE. All Rights Reserved. Elvis Presley™ © 2016 ABG EPE IP LLC. Photo courtesy of Graceland

The real thing

Museum at Flagg Grove School in Brownsville showcases the Queen of Rock n Roll’s musical journey.

recently expanded with the opening of Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort, a family-focused, full-service resort.

America's soundtrack

Taste of Tennessee

In 2017 music milestones will be celebrated in Tennessee, including Ryman Auditorium’s 125th, Bristol Sessions’ 90th, Elvis Week’s 40th, the 60th anniversary of RCA Studio B and the 50th anniversary of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Dolly Parton helps families create memories every day at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge. The theme park, which includes a splash park and cabins,

The essential made-in-Tennessee product, besides music, is the state's food offering. TripAdvisor recently named Tennessee number one for barbecue, where Memphis leads the way with places like Rendezvous, A&R and Central. Nashville is known for 'Hot Chicken' and food festivals are plentiful, including Knoxville’s International Biscuit Festival.

Come discover 'The Soundtrack of America, Made in Tennessee.'

Pictured: Top – Elvis lives on at Graceland; Above – getting rustic and rural in Tennessee; Opposite page, top right – the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge; Bottom left – The West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center

Tennessee highlights Bristol The 1927 Bristol Sessions, known as the “Big Bang of Country Music,” featured the likes of Jimmie Rodgers and the Carter Family and changed Tennessee’s musical heritage forever. These epic recordings are honoured year-round at The Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol which is also home to the annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots festival in September. The three day festival features over 20 stages and plenty of music-themed activities.

Memphis Celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Elvis Week, a week of special events paying respects to the king of rock ‘n’ roll at Graceland and other venues in Memphis such as Sun Studio.

Experience the new state-of-the-art Visitor and Entertainment Complex – the most significant expansion of Elvis Presley’s Graceland since the landmark home opened for public tours in 1982 – and stay at the new full-service Guest House at Graceland for Elvis Week 2017.

TNVACATION.COM

Eclipse Tennessee has a new claim to fame for 2017 – a total solar eclipse! On August 21 the moon will block out the sun from Clarksville (2m17s at 1:25pm) to Nashville (1m54s at 1:27pm) and Crossville (2m31s at 1:31pm) and then, as the shadow hops the mighty Tennessee River, Dayton will experience 2m21s at about the same time. Gallatin is expected to experience the longest totality (2m40s) and will be holding an event at Triple Creek Park in Sumner County.

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VISIT KENTUCKY The Bluegrass State

Racing heritage

Kentucky FAVOURITES

Southern hospitality is what it's all about in the Bluegrass State, where visitors can taste bourbon, enjoy the races and explore the great outdoors ↸

“Kentucky is not only the epicenter of the Total Solar Eclipse but also home to horse racing, fine bourbon and bluegrass music. The state has all the adventure, history and dining needed for a great vacation”

K

entucky is the front porch of the South, welcoming visitors with Southern hospitality.

While horses, bourbon and bluegrass are state signatures, Kentucky also offers the finest in dining, arts, entertainment, history and thrilling outdoor adventure to make any visit to the state complete.

(the father of bluegrass music).

Trace the iconic rise of 'The Greatest of All Time', Muhammad Ali, with a tour of his native Louisville.

Travel to the UNESCO Creative City Paducah to tour the National Quilt Museum, the largest museum in the world devoted to quilts and fiber arts. Or learn a craft of your own at an artisan’s workshop in Berea.

Bourbon heritage

Ninety-five per cent of 'America’s Native Spirit' is distilled, aged and bottled in Kentucky. Learn about this fascinating industry with tours of distilleries along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

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Horses and history Visit the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, tour a working thoroughbred farm and meet Triple Crown champion American Pharaoh.

Delve deeper into the history of Kentucky by visiting the birthplaces of famous Kentuckians, such as Abraham Lincoln (16th President of the United States) and Bill Monroe

TOUR MUHAMMAD ALI’S LOUISVILLE From his childhood home to the Muhammad Ali Center to his final resting place, this tour features the places that shaped the man.

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HORSE COUNTRY, LEXINGTON Tours through bluegrass horse country include stops at top thoroughbred farms and a chance to see Triple Crown winner, American Pharaoh. kentuckyhorsecountry.org

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Outdoor adventure

Kentucky is home to Mammoth Cave, the longest cave system in the world, as well as thousands of miles of waterways. Trails abound – including hiking, mountain biking, equestrian and off-road trails – for all sorts of explorers, while Kentucky’s 17 state resort parks provide family-friendly lodging, recreation and camping.

Plan your next great adventure in Kentucky and discover all the hospitality, history and harmony the bluegrass state has to offer.

THE ARK ENCOUNTER, WILLIAMSTOWN The Ark Encounter features a full-size replica of Noah’s Ark, complete with exhibits about the pages of the Bible.

SPEED ART MUSEUM, LOUISVILLE The newly-designed Speed Museum is the largest art museum in the state and offers an amazing display of traditional folk art to contemporary exhibits. speedmuseum.org

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SHAKER VILLAGE, HARRODSBURG This destination features unique accommodations in 13 restored Shaker buildings, and events such as yoga weekends and farm-to-table dinners. shakervillageky.org

Reasons to visit KENTUCKY ECLIPSE SEE THE LIGHT in Hopkinsville!

This unassuming town in the western part of the state is the epicenter of the total solar eclipse that occurs in August 2017.

From here visitors will be able to view this extraordinary event longer than anywhere else on the planet and it is destined to draw visitors from far and wide. There is also much more to see and do all within an easy drive, including the historic downtown area and the town's various parks.

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THRILLS BOWLING GREEN is a National Geographic Top 10 All-American City and home of the Corvette.

Groups and individuals can enjoy tours of the National Corvette Museum and the GM Corvette Assembly Plant, but there’s much more than fast cars! Nestled in Kentucky’s Cave Country, generations of travellers have explored Mammoth Cave National Park – the longest cave system in the world – and today’s visitors can tour seven additional caves.

KENTUCKYTOURISM.COM

CREATE THE CITY OF PADUCAH, in western Kentucky, is home to the National Quilt Museum and is a UNESCO Creative City. It offers unforgettable and immersive experiences which engage visitors in authentic culture.

Experiences range from Fiber Art and Creative Stitch at the National Quilt Museum, to the Hotel Metropolitan, an African American hotel during segregation, to The Art of Creating Community and the River Discovery Center.

Be inspired

ONLY IN AMERICA Itinerar y ideas with flair

Hit the road For an experience like no other, Only in America is a new road trip through Kentucky and Tennessee. Discover some of what you’ll find Only in America Northern Kentucky

• National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.

• The Ark Encounter and Creation Museum brings the Bible to life.

• The Newport Gangster Tour: before there was Vegas, there was Newport.

Louisville

• Kentucky Derby Museum (Churchill Downs) offers hands-on experience and an audio-visual display of the Derby Day vibe on a 360° screen.

• The historic Belle of Louisville is perfect for daily sightseeing cruises.

• Discover the Urban Bourbon Trail along Whiskey Row and beyond.

• The Muhammad Ali Center has views of Kentucky’s largest city, where Ali was born.

Lexington

• Keeneland Race Course is on the National Register of Historic Places.

• Kentucky Horse Park, the only park in the world dedicated to the horse.

• Shaker Village at Pleasant Hill, home to an impressive collection of Shaker architecture, furniture and artefacts. It has great food too!

Bardstown

• Travel to Bardstown, voted America’s most beautiful small town, and the Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center.

• See the outdoor musical, 'The Stephen Foster Story,' and My Old Kentucky Home State Park.

Bowling Green

• 400 miles of passages and caverns of Mammoth Cave National Park.

• General Motors began production of the Corvette here in 1981 and the facility remains the car's exclusive home. Visit the National Corvette Museum and the Corvette Plant.

• Bowling Green has a flourishing cultural scene, good shopping and dining, plus an innovative distillery.

Paducah • At the heart of America’s inland waterways, Paducah is home to the National Quilt Museum, the Lower Town Arts District and 50 life-sized panoramic floodwall murals.

Memphis

• Don’t miss the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Sun Studio, Smithsonian’s Rock ’n’ Soul Museum and the Gibson Guitar Factory.

• For African-American history visit Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum.

• The National Civil Rights Museum explores the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. • Visit Graceland, Elvis’ beloved mansion, see his private jets, the Automobile Museum and more.

Nashville

• Spend an evening at the Bluebird Café, Nashville’s legendary hotspot.

• Experience Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry, the world’s longest-running radio show.

• Tour the Johnny Cash Museum.

• Catch a concert or tour the Ryman Auditorium.

• RCA’s Studio B, located on historic Music Row, home to hits like Roy Orbison’s 'Only the Lonely' and 250 hits by Elvis Presley.

Great Smoky Mountains

• The towns of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville and Townsend offer a wide array of activities from mini Nascar racing to zip-lining to outlet shopping, plus The Titanic Museum!

• Dolly Parton’s Dollywood theme park celebrates the heritage and people of the East Tennessee region.

Chattanooga

• A great riverfront, outdoor adventures, rich American Civil War history and a thriving music scene.

• The Chattanooga Choo Choo Terminal Station Complex & Hotel.

• Rock City Gardens, an awardwinning garden and geological wonder located atop Lookout Mountain via the incline railway.

↸

“In the Great Smoky Mountains, the towns of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville and Townsend offer a wide array of activities, from mini Nascar racing to zip-lining and outlet shopping, plus the Titanic Museum!”

DEEP-SOUTH-USA.COM

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Be inspired ★

LIVE SPORT ★

A piece of the action © Glendale Tourism

THE USA and sport go together like apple pie and cream. Whether it’s American football, baseball, basketball or ice hockey, Americans love to go to a match and cheer on their favourite teams.

British fans travelling to watch their chosen teams in the U.S. can turn to specialist operators to purchase tickets. NFL tickets can be hard to get hold of, but Major League Baseball teams sometimes play six times a week, so getting tickets is easier – and you can take in iconic stadiums such as Boston Red Sox's Fenway Park and Chicago Cubs’ Wrigley Field.

Tickets are also available for most basketball and ice hockey games. And if you can't catch a live game, then the next best thing is a stadium tour – and there are plenty to choose from.

Soak up the atmosphere

Cheerleaders, booming music and whacky mascots add to the occasion of an American sporting event. At Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium the cannons on a 100-foot pirate ship fire when resident NFL team the Tampa Bay Buccaneers score a touchdown!

Pedal to the metal

See races such as the Indy 500 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway or Formula 1’s U.S. Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin. NASCAR racetracks include Florida’s Daytona International Speedway (Daytona 500), and the Charlotte Motor Speedway, where the NASCAR Hall of Fame is located.

Top scorers

To find out about schedules, venues and ticket information for the big spectator sports in the U.S., visit each one’s official website: nfl.com; mlb.com; nba.com; nhl.com; and mlssoccer.com.

Pictured: Left – catch a live basketball game; Top – the Los Angeles Dodgers in action; Above – the popular Kentucky Derby

BOOK IT NOW!

Turn to pages 58-66 to find your perfect travel partners.

Alternatively, see visitusa.org.uk

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JOH

DYES

VISIT CENT ORS ER

D HOME HOO

CASH BOY NNY

A LEGEND

S

AR

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The legend of Johnny Cash was forged on the Arkansas delta.

Plan your trip to experience his childhood home in Dyess, arkansas.

What will you do in Arkansas?

Arkansas.com/cash

Be inspired ★

THEME PARKS ★ Coney Island kicks 

“Head to the ‘Roller Coaster Capital of the World’, Cedar Point amusement park in Ohio, for your chance to ride the world’s longest, fastest and tallest dive coaster, Valravn”

Woooooh!

Built in 1927, Coney Island’s iconic wooden roller coaster, Cyclone, has been refurbished and is roaring once more at the Luna Park which overlooks the boardwalk and threemile beach in Brooklyn, New York.

This kitsch wonderland is also home to Deno’s Wonder Wheel Park which features the new 7D virtual reality Dark Ride XD.

Marvel-lous developments

A new Marvel ride is coming to Disneyland in California.

Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout! will be replacing The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror from summer 2017. But fear not, Terror fans – you’ll still be able to get your free-fall thrills at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida.

Dive in at Universal

Rides of your life NOWHERE beats the U.S. when it comes to theme parks – after all, this is where the world’s first true theme park, Santa Claus Land, opened in 1946 in Indiana, while Walt Disney first brought the magic of his movies to life in California when he opened Disneyland in 1955, setting the benchmark for all that followed.

Not just for the children, America’s parks are technologically-advanced fantasy lands: the thrills are bigger, the roller coaster rides are faster, the shows more epic, and the theming more imaginative than ever before.

Boasting equally as impressive resorts, restaurants, spas and bars, many are complete holiday destinations, and while Florida leads the way, there are plenty more entertainment meccas across the country to transport you to other wonderful worlds.

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Six Flags has launched three Superman Virtual Reality Coasters and six New Revolution Virtual Reality Coasters at some of its 16 parks.

Not content with its amazingly awesome attractions inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Orlando Resort has recently revealed an exciting new ride, Skull Island: Reign of Kong, while a major new water theme park, Volcano Bay, is set to splash down in summer 2017.

Pictured: Above – Wonder Wheel in Luna Park, Coney Island, New York; Below – 'The Grinch' makes an appearance at Universal Studios, Florida

Top left: Native Navajo Dreamcatcher; Bottom left: Cowboy and horse in Texas

BOOK IT NOW!

Turn to pages 58-66 to find your perfect travel partners.

Alternatively, see visitusa.org.uk

Be inspired

VISIT CENTRAL FLORIDA Polk Count y, Florida

Central Florida

Choose everything

FAVOURITES

Stop and smell the orange blossoms, zip across a sparkling lake by airboat and marvel at great architecture – Visit Central Florida for all this, and more  “Polk County lies in the heart of Florida, where one can truly 'Choose Everything' within a 90 minute drive, or less. Theme parks, water sports, nature preserves, beaches and more - are all within reach, for the best holiday ever”

C

hoose Everything when you visit Central Florida… there’s LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, Safari Wilderness Ranch, Bok Tower Gardens and the largest one-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world.

Central Florida’s Polk County has 554 fresh water lakes for great fishing and water sports… there’s even a dude ranch where you can spend your nights in a luxe teepee and cheer on real cowboys at the Saturday night rodeo. Drive to the major Orlando attractions in about an hour and to Florida’s famous beaches, on either coast, in 90 minutes. In Central Florida, you really can 'Choose Everything.'

Water, water, everywhere More than 550 lakes afford great fishing and exciting water sports, yielding bragging rights to Polk County as both the Largemouth Bass Capital and the Water Ski Capital of the World. LEGOLAND® Florida is built upon the site of the former Cypress Gardens. As Florida’s first theme park, Cypress Gardens was renowned for its gardens and water ski shows. In a salute to that history, LEGOLAND® Florida is the only

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LEGOLAND® FLORIDA RESORT This park is geared towards family fun with more than 50 rides, shows, attractions, a water park and the 152-room LEGOLAND® Hotel. legoland.com/florida

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BOK TOWER GARDENS The National Historic Landmark features a 62-metre neo-Gothic and art deco carillon, and the new Children’s Garden is open.

BokTowerGardens.org

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LEGOLAND® Park to feature a water ski show and a botanical garden.

New adventures

For an area steeped in history, there's so much to be discovered. Bok Tower Gardens just completed the largest expansion in its 87-year history with the opening of a children’s garden including dancing water features, interactive play areas and mosaics.

Safari Wilderness Ranch added a new kayak safari option this year. By mid2017, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort will double its lodging capacity with the debut of LEGOLAND® Beach Retreat, featuring 83 single-storey beach bungalows, with 166 separate units that sleep up to five.

SAFARI WILDERNESS RANCH One of the '10 Best Safaris in the U.S.' the ranch gives visitors close-up encounters with huge herds of exotic African and Asian hoofstock.

SafariWilderness.com

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WESTGATE RIVER RANCH RESORT This dude ranch offers cowboy-themed activities and varied luxury accommodation.

The Saturday night rodeo is a must see. westgateriverranch.com

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SUN 'N' FUN INTERNATIONAL FLY-IN AND EXPO Taking place in early April, this week-long, annual air show is the second largest fly-in in the United States.

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels headline in 2017. sun-n-fun.org

Discover CENTRAL FLORIDA STAY POLK COUNTY offers comfortable accommodations in more than 7,000 luxury SelfCatering Homes.

Most include private, screened-in swimming pools along with full kitchens, spacious living areas and washer/dryer units for the perfect "home away from home." Properties range up to seven bedrooms and are also ideal for golf vacations since many are located in communities right on some of Central Florida’s best golf courses.

SAVOUR SNACK ON ORANGES picked fresh from the tree at Ridge Island Groves or get your citrus fix with a slice of award-winning Grapefruit Pie at Lang’s Taste of Florida Café. If you’re craving barbeque, don’t miss the evergrowing list of annual festivals spread throughout the year, including Lakeland PigFest, Smoke on the Water, Ribs on the Ridge and When Pigs Fly South, alternatively ask a local to recommend their favourite BBQ restaurant.

VISITCENTRALFLORIDA.ORG

SWING STREAMSONG® RESORT will add to its world class golf offerings in 2017, with the opening of Streamsong® Black, designed by world-renowned course architect Gil Hanse. The spa resort has received rave reviews since opening with Streamsong® Red and Streamsong® Blue in 2013.

Those intertwining 18-hole courses, designed by renowned course architects Tom Doak, Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, offer a golf experience reminiscent of the links-style courses of Great Britain.

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Be inspired ★

ROAD TRIPS ★



“A motorhome or ‘RV’ (recreational vehicle) is a great way to explore the U.S. You’ll find rental locations across the country and excellent campgrounds wherever you travel”

Pictured: Above – crossing the Bixby Bridge, Big Sur, California; Far left – explore the U.S. in a classic car; Left – roadside refreshment

by Devils Tower, Wyoming

Drivin’ the blues away

Dream drives Hit the gas

Prefer to hit the road on two wheels? A Harley Davidson is the bike that road trip dreams are made of.

Hire your own or join a guided tour.

Delegate a nondrinking driver and take a spin around the wonderful familyrun wineries of New Mexico. Cheers!

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Winding along the course of the mighty Mississippi River, Highway 61 joins New Orleans in Louisiana and the city of Wyoming in Minnesota. The 1,400-mile long ‘Blues Highway’ takes in some of America’s musical Meccas.

Falling for New England You can’t beat a road trip through

NOTHING conjures an image of New England in autumn as ‘fall’ cloaks the trees in russet and unbridled freedom more than a U.S. gold. Start in historic Boston road trip. Made legendary by classics like and head north to Vermont, New Easy Rider and Thelma & Louise, cruising Hampshire and Maine. an endless highway into a vast blue horizon must feature on many holiday Revisiting Route 66 wish-lists – and you can experience it for The American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association, in yourself amid America’s iconic landscapes. association with the National Park Among popular trips are the original Route Service, has released a new 66, which runs from Chicago to Santa guidebook and website, American Monica; State Route One, from San Francisco Indians & Route 66, which to San Diego, passing the beautiful bays and highlights the American Indian history and cultural experiences giant redwoods of the California coast; and waiting to be discovered along the the U.S. Highway One, stretching from country’s most famous highway.

Miami across a bridge-linked archipelago to Key West, at Florida’s southernmost tip.

BOOK IT WITH...

Driving’s a breeze in a country Alamo Rent A Car where the roads are usually as 0800 028 2390 alamo.co.uk clear as the skies, so jump in your Ford Mustang and hit the road.

Be inspired

VISIT CENTRAL NEW YORK America's craft brew destination

Central New York

Here’s cheers…

FAVOURITES

Rolling hills, bustling cities and a fascinating trail of breweries and craft pubs mean Central New York is sure to make your spirits soar 

“If you’re a craft beer buff, cider sipper, vodka devotee, whiskey aficionado or wine-meister, welcome home.

Brew Central’s roots in rich hop history continue to grow with worldrenowned craft beverages made by some of the greatest brewers around”

W

ith over 65 breweries, hard cideries, distilleries, craft pubs and wineries, Central New York makes the perfect place to plan the ultimate road trip.

Take a tour among the region’s rolling hills, bustling cities and small towns to get a true taste of “America’s Craft Brew Destination”!

The ten counties that make up Brew Central comprise the hops capital of the country, producing 90 percent of hops used in U.S. beer at the turn of the 20th century. Brew Central puts

Hit the road

Start things in Utica, New York, with a tour of F.X. Matt Brewery. Nail Creek Pub & Brewery is next door with its

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BEER

saranac.com

FORT STANWIX, ROME Explore a true piece of history at Fort Stanwix, a reconstructed 18th century post. nps.gov/fost

collection of craft beer. Otsego County offers tasting along the Cooperstown Beverage Trail. Binghamton’s locally sourced and world-class beers make this city a brew destination in its own right. The father and son team at Galaxy Brewing Company serve up a dozen in-house creations at a time and Water Street Brewing serves up six beers of varying styles.

Central New York's craft distillers put Brew Central at the forefront of an exciting trend. Adirondack Distilling Co.'s vodka, gin and whiskey are filtered with 'Herkimer Diamonds'.

Cooperstown Distillery gives flavour to its libations with 95% locally-grown ingredients and French Distillers & Alchemists, the first (legal) distillery in Broome County since prohibition, specializes in small batch whisky.

CENTRAL NEW YORK Brew masters TASTE TRADITION F.X. Matt Brewing Co. has been producing beer in Utica since 1888. The third and fourth generations of the Matt family have since created a craft beer icon in Saranac, which draws thousands to the brewery today. F.X. Matt offers a schedule of tours and tastings and hosts many special events, including a weekly summer concert series and a brew festival.

ROBERSON MUSEUM & SCIENCE CENTER, BINGHAMTON A new exhibit will run from February-June in 2017, 2018 & 2019 – Nature’s Best Photography. roberson.org

Spirits with soul the region on the map with producers and pubs making up the trail. You can find details of more attractions and events at: VisitCentralNewYork.com

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SCIENCE BINGHAMTON Brewing Co. taps into the rich agricultural and brewing history of Central New York by sourcing many ingredients locally for an ever-growing lineup of beer.

The owners tap into their backgrounds as engineers to apply a special blend of science and creativity to their brews, which are served up to faithful followers at their popular tasting room. There are beers to suit all tastes from amber ales to dry stout.

bingbrew.com

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TURNING STONE CASINO RESORT, VERONA Luxurious accommodations, fine dining, entertainment, and Las Vegas-style gaming. turningstone.com

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THE FENIMORE ART MUSEUM, COOPERSTOWN Home to one of the best and largest American folk art collections in the world. fenimoreartmuseum.org

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SALT SANCTUARY, JOHNSON CITY Escape into the Salt Sanctuary which recreates an age-old European healing experience in Central New York.

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BASEBALL HALL OF FAME, COOPERSTOWN The museum pays tribute to the most iconic of Americana and the sport's greatest heroes. baseballhall.org

© Images courtesy of Mitch Wojnarowicz – Brew Central mitchw.com

FOOD EAT, DRINK, DANCE Brewery Ommegang serves up some of America’s best Belgian-style ales, including some of the country’s most popular in the “Game of Thrones” series. The former hop farm turned farmstead brewery also offers an extensive European-influenced menu in its café and hosts several outdoor concerts that include on-site camping each summer. ommegang.com

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Be inspired ★

THE OLD WEST ★

“Working and 'dude' ranches cater for beginners and experienced riders alike and operate all year and on all types of terrain. Ride the desert in winter and snow-capped mountain country in summertime”

Saddling up!

Pictured: Above – exploring the South Dakota wilderness on horseback; Right – live music at the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nevada

Ride ‘em cowboy

Catch pro rodeos at events including Denver, Colorado's National Western Stock Show; San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, Texas; the World’s Oldest Rodeo in Prescott, Arizona; Wyoming’s Cody Stampede and Cheyenne Frontier Days; Idaho’s Caldwell Night Rodeo and Snake River Stampede; Oregon’s Pendleton Round-Up; Dodge City Days in Kansas and the showpiece National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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YEE-HAW! Grab your cowboy duds and boots and mosey on over to the U.S. if you’re looking for authentic Wild West experiences – the spirit of America’s Old West is alive and kicking!

There’s no better way of getting a taste of cowboy lifestyle firsthand than enjoying a magnificent seven days staying on a ranch and riding tall in the saddle.

But it doesn’t have to be all about campfire cookouts and Stetsons.

Choose your experience from activity-filled ‘dude’ or working ranches to more homely guest and resort ranches, where comfort, cuisine and relaxation are the order of the day.

Watch cowboys display their skills at roping, barrel racing, and bronc and bull-riding at rodeos from Ohio to California, or step back in time with a visit to ghost towns and Wild West frontier towns. Relive Wild West heritage in Arizona’s Tombstone or in the historic stockyards of Fort Worth in Texas and Oklahoma City.

Visit the

Grand Canyon Seeing is Believing!

Quick on the draw

Rodeo

Angola Rodeo is the only remaining U.S. rodeo held behind prison walls. Open to the public, it is staged at maximumsecurity Louisiana State Penitentiary one weekend in April and every Sunday in October.

Hawaii ride-oh

Go on horse-riding adventures on the slopes of the Big Island’s Mauna Kea at the 175,000-acre Parker Ranch, one of the largest cattle ranches in the U.S., with paniolos – Hawaii’s cowboys. The ranch is famous for its July 4th Rodeo.

Grand Canyon National Park • Hoover Dam • Indian Country Grand Canyon West • Grand Canyon Overnight Packages • Group Charters • Grand Canyon Overnight with the Grand Canyon Railway

Learn the ropes

www.grandcanyontourandtravel.com inquiries@gctco.com

The 93-acre Pioneer Living History Museum in North Phoenix recreates an Old West town and stages weekend shoot-outs. Nearby Scottsdale styles itself ‘the West’s Most Western Town’ and is home to the Arizona Cowboy College, where city slickers can 'earn their spurs'.

© Evan Semon

The residents of Fairbanks, Alaska, let their hair down for five days each July to celebrate the city’s Gold Rush Days, which includes Alaska’s largest pageant, the Grande Parade.

Gun-slinging Wild West enthusiasts fight it out for the title of ‘Fastest Gun Alive’ at the annual World Cowboy Fast Draw Championship in Fallon, Nevada, each October.

Nearby Virginia City hosts the annual World Championship Outhouse Races, with teams pulling decorated toilets on wheels.

Pictured: riding down the streets of Denver, Colorado, at the National Western Stock Show Parade

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Grand American Adventures 03330 038 243 info@grandamericanadventures.co.uk grandamericanadventures.com

Be inspired ★

WILDLIFE ★

Wild at heart WHEREVER you’re travelling in the U.S. you’ll never be far from a ‘wow’-inspiring wildlife moment.

Driving through the Great Smoky Mountains? Look out for a black bear crossing the road with her cubs.

Sun bathing on the beach in Sarasota? Keep an eye open for ospreys diving for fish.

Hikers, birdwatchers, divers and those simply in search of some sea and sun will discover no end of amazing animals to share their U.S. adventure. From the country’s iconic grizzlies, bison, cougars and moose that roam its mountains, forests and plains, to the bald eagles, condors and ibises that fill its skies, and the dolphins, whales and turtles that cruise its coastlines, visitors are guaranteed to experience unique wildlife encounters.

Pictured: Top – moose are a regular sight in Alaska; Left – meeting dolphins at Miami Seaquarium, Florida; Above – beavers can be spotted across most of the country; Below – brown pelicans are often seen on boat decks and concrete pilings across the southern and western U.S.

Move with the herd Spot it

The J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Florida’s Sanibel Island is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 300 species.

After being hunted to nearextinction by settlers in the 19th century, conservation efforts have brought the mighty American bison back from the brink. Observe the majesty of the country’s recently crowned national mammal in regions as diverse as Yellowstone National Park and Santa Catalina Island, just an hour’s boat ride from Los Angeles.

Spot the Big Five Every summer night the world’s largest urban bat colony emerges from Congress Avenue Bridge to fill the skies above Austin, Texas.

Stretching across six million acres of Alaskan wilderness and home to Mount McKinley – North America’s highest mountain – Denali National Park is a haven for wildlife. Look out for the ‘Big Five’ roaming the taiga forests and tundra: moose, wolf, caribou, Dall sheep and grizzly bear.

BOOK IT WITH...

Collette 0800 804 8701 uksales@gocollette.com gocollette.com

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Be inspired

VISIT BIRMINGHAM The Magic Cit y

Southern culture

BIRMINGHAM FAVOURITES

The city of Birmingham is a hotspot for experiencing American history, music, sports, shopping and some of the best food the south has to offer ↸

“If you come to Birmingham as a music fan, it is imperative that you stay the weekend and visit Gip’s Place. It is one of the final remaining real juke joints in the South and a joy to be a part of”

L

ocated in the heart of the Southeastern United States, Birmingham is a popular tourist destination for people from around the world. Known worldwide for its role in America’s Civil Rights history, Birmingham has devoted an entire district to the historical events of that era, including the acclaimed Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.

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inbirmingham.com/itineraries

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Dining out

Birmingham is widely acknowledged for its vibrant and sophisticated food scene. People come from around the region for the simple pleasure of dining in the city’s chef-owned restaurants. From French cuisine influenced by the American South to the world’s best barbecue, Birmingham dining is reason in itself to travel.

Shopping sensation

Birmingham is the unrivaled retail giant of Alabama.

From outlet malls to upscale boutiques, shopping opportunities are near endless.

Devoted shoppers know that in Birmingham the buying spree can go on for days, fueled by the huge selection of shopping districts.

CIVIL RIGHTS DISTRICT Birmingham's historic civil rights district includes the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, site of the 1963 bombing that killed four young African-American girls preparing for worship.

FIVE MUST-HAVE COCKTAILS Orange Thing – Bottega; Blue Monkey Martini – Blue Monkey Lounge; Boulevardier – The Collins Bar; Bloody Mary – Garage Café; French 75 – Chez Fonfon inbirmingham.com/nightlife

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Tee off!

Visitors will find some of the best public golf courses on earth around the Birmingham area. The climate is moderate year-round, making the city an excellent choice for golfing throughout the year.

Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail is a collection of championship courses running the length of the state. Birmingham has two courses along the Trail, the Oxmoor Valley Course and the Ross Bridge Course.

There are more than 140,000 yards of public golf courses and Birmingham displays its famous Southern hospitality to all who visit, and it is one of many reasons visitors return to the city time and again.

FIVE MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS: Birmingham Museum of Art; Vulcan Park and Museum; Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark; Birmingham Civil Rights Institute; Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum inbirmingham.com/attractions

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FIVE BEST VENUES FOR MUSIC: Iron City; Saturn; Alabama Theatre; Lyric Theatre; BirminghamJefferson Convention Complex inbirmingham.com/nightlife

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BARBER VINTAGE MOTORSPORTS MUSEUM Home to the world’s largest collection of antique and contemporary motorcycles. It is eye candy for motorsports enthusiasts and for visitors of all interests. barbermuseum.org

The best of BIRMINGHAM FESTIVALS SLOSS MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL is an annual event that brings thousands of music fans to hear dozens of bands over the course of two days. The festival is one of many that the city hosts on a year-round schedule. Sloss Festival is generally held in July and showcases a number of well-known international music acts. Other events celebrate independent film, art in all forms, traditional Southern foods, and cultures from around the world.

MUSIC BIRMINGHAM'S WORLD-CLASS musical talent has put the city in the national spotlight with two winners from the mega hit American TV show American Idol. But it is the full schedule of musical entertainment locally that is impressive and irresistible. Nightclubs, theatres and other venues regularly host talented local musicians and nationally-known performers. It is possible to find great music every night of the week in Birmingham.

INBIRMINGHAM.COM

CRAFT BEER VISITORS IN BIRMINGHAM enjoy a wide and delightful selection of craft beer at breweries around the city.

It’s a treat to drink beer in these taprooms while watching the brews being carefully hand-crafted. Breweries in Birmingham create some of the highest-rated beers in the American South, making the city a great destination for beer lovers. The aromas and flavors of seasonal beers are exceptional in Birmingham taprooms.

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USA Map

Olympic NP Seattle Olympia Glacier NP Whitefish

WASHINGTON

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Haleak Haleakala ala N NP P

Hawaii Volcanoes lcanoes NP Vo

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San Juan

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MAINE Lake Superior

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Acadia NP Augusta Portland

Burlington

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National Parks

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New Orleans St Petersburg/Clearwater Tampa Bradenton Sarasota

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Jacksonville

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Direct Amtrak Rail Service

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MAP KEY UK Gateway Airports

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State Capitals

SCALE 500km (approx)

FLORIDA

Fort Myers & Sanibel Naples

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Florida Keys

FLORIDA KEYS Key Largo

Key West

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Be inspired ★

WELLNESS ★

Pictured: Left – yoga session at Red Rocks State Park, Arizona; Above – The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs, an AAA Five-Diamond resort with an award-winning spa

Spa for the course

Spa time INDULGE and be pampered in spas across the U.S. with a host of treatments to help you detox from digital overload and the stresses of modern-day life. Whether you are staying in a city centre hotel, mountain hideaway, beach resort or desert retreat, a soothing spa session featuring a scrub, wrap, facial, pedicure or massage will leave you feeling rejuvenated.

And some spas enhance the experience with stunning views. The spa at luxury guest ranch the C Lazy U Ranch in Colorado has two large tents with glass floors suspended over a creek with the Rocky Mountains on view through the tent flaps. Or there’s the spa at Montana’s Resort at Paws Up which is also housed in tents that look out over the countryside. The spa at the Mandarin Oriental New York is located on the 35th and 36th floors and provides views of Manhattan and the Hudson River.

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Top golf resorts with spas include The Lodge at Pebble Beach (California), Nemacolin Woodlands Resort (Pennsylvania), The Breakers in Palm Beach (Florida), the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess (Arizona), The Cloister at Sea Island (Georgia), Grand Wailea (Maui, Hawaii), The Broadmoor (Colorado), and The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Resort (South Carolina).

Follow the stars

At the luxury Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Arizona, where Beyoncé and Jay Z honeymooned, one of its private residences is being turned into an exclusive spa house offering a variety of treatments and therapies and a meditation garden.

First spa town

America’s first spa town, Berkeley Springs in West Virginia, has been a magnet for its health-giving, warm spring waters since George Washington’s regular visits helped popularise it in the mid-1700s. You can drink the water for free, soak in its Old Roman Bath Building or visit full-service spas. Magical!

Relax

The top destination spa for 2016 according to U.S. publication Travel+Leisure was the New Life Hiking Spa in Killington, Vermont, followed by Westglow Spa, at Blowing Rock, North Carolina, and The Ranch at Live Oak, in Malibu, California.

Guests staying in Las Vegas casino resort MGM Grand’s Stay Well rooms enjoy private checkin at the new Stay Well Lounge as well as health and wellness elements including aromatherapy, wakeup light therapy and a vitamin C-infused shower.

BOOK IT NOW!

Turn to pages 58-66 to find your perfect travel partners.

Alternatively, see visitusa.org.uk

Be inspired

VISIT HOUSTON Culinar y and cultural capital of the south

Happening Houston

Houston FAVOURITES

The culinary and cultural capital of the southern United States is even more renowned as America's most diverse city ↸

“Houston’s mix of international appeal and Southern charm have captured the imagination of tastemakers the world over”

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iscover a mix of southern charm and urban appeal in 'H-Town'. Developments such as the pedestrian-friendly Avenida Houston are a fresh alternative for dining and entertainment, and it is one of the centerpieces of the city’s hosting of Super Bowl LI.

visithoustontexas.com/hotels

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Street art

The city is filled with artists which is why talented muralists have taken to the outdoors to showcase their work.

• 2800 San Jacinto Street: Houston’s largest mural stands more than 60 feet tall and 180 feet wide, by Artist Sebastien 'Mr. D' Boileau who called it 'Preservons La Creation' (Let's Preserve the Creation).

• The HUE Mural Festival each October brings together artists from around the world for a week-long showcase of mural painting.

The culinary scene

Houston’s culinary scene is diverse, from award-winning chefs to ethnic neighbourhood spots that celebrate the region’s international flair.

• Try Lankford Grocery & Market for fully-loaded, hot-off-the-grill burgers.

Since 1938, the hole-in-the-wall diner has earned plenty of well-

UNIQUE AND HISTORIC HOTELS Houston has no shortage of top-notch accommodations, though only a few share a past rich enough to deem them a tourist destination in themselves.

THE ICONIC HOUSTON RESTAURANTS In a city filled with buzzy, new restaurant openings, it takes real culinary talent for a business to withstand the test of time.

visithoustontexas.com/restaurants

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deserved national praise.

• Each Saturday, the Eastside Farmers Market is open with vendors offering fresh vegetables and other locally made products.

visithoustontexas.com/shopping

Craft breweries

Houstonians love beer, and some are even making it.

• Saint Arnold’s Brewery, the oldest in Texas, utilizes beer-making equipment from a now-defunct Bavarian monastery and offers ten different beers throughout the year.

• 8th Wonder Brewery produces seasonal selections and limitededition offerings in a warehouse on the edge of Downtown, where they are making Houston's "craft beer for the home team."

HOUSTON TOP SHOPS Searching for something in particular? Chances are if you can dream it, it's available in Houston – from fresh-offthe-runway designer duds to one-of-a-kind, locallyproduced artisan wares.

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BEST NEIGHBOURHOODS FOR NIGHTLIFE From laid-back lounges and quaint hideaways to hipster hangouts and see-and-be-seen clubs, H-Town has it all. visithoustontexas.com/nightlife

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HOUSTON EVENTS CALENDAR Get the most out of your time in Houston with events and attractions organised around specific themes and interests. visithoustontexas.com/events

HOUSTON highlights ARTS THE MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS in Houston showcases famous masterpieces and is one of few museums in the U.S. that organises exhibits of art works from Latin American artists. The Station Museum of Contemporary Art is set in a former auto shop in Midtown. Dedicated to thought-provoking contemporary art displays, the museum aims to promote awareness of cultural, political, economic and personal dimensions of art.

CITYPASS SAVE 48% OFF ADMISSION AT Houston’s five must-see attractions with the Houston CityPASS. You’ll skip most ticket lines, too.

CityPASS ticket booklets are valid for nine days beginning with the first day of use and cost $56 for adults (value $101.10) and $46 for children age 3-11 (value $73.70), subject to change.

The CityPASS pocket-sized booklets include admission to: Space Center Houston, Houston Museum of Natural Science, Downtown Aquarium and more.

VISITHOUSTONTEXAS.COM

PARKS HOUSTON IS AN OUTDOOR CITY. The metro area offers tons of places to get out and experience nature in small ways (an urban downtown park) and big (a 2,000acre preserve).

Explore Discovery Green, Hermann Park, and Buffalo Bayou to get fresh air in the city. One of the best ways to explore H-Town is by bike, and the Houston B-Cycle bike share programme makes exploring downtown Houston a breeze. There are a number of stations around the city and a 24-hour pass costs $5.

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Be inspired ★

LITERARY INSPIRATION ★

American classics LOVERS of U.S. fiction can tour the places that both inspired the authors and feature in their works. From 19th century authors like Mark Twain, Herman Melville and Harriet Beecher Stowe to later novelists such as John Steinbeck, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, Margaret Mitchell, Jack Kerouac, Tennessee Williams and Harper Lee, U.S. literary giants and their books are celebrated in towns and cities across the country.

Some even have annual festivals dedicated to them, such as Hemingway Days in Key West, Florida (July) and the Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival (March). Or join the Gone with the Wind Trail around Atlanta that brings Mitchell’s Civil War-era novel to life.

In Hartford, Connecticut, visit the Mark Twain House, where the author created Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer. 

“The Southern Literary Trail connects places in Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi that have inspired illustrious American writers. Sites include the Montgomery, Alabama, home of F. Scott Fitzgerald”

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Mockingbird experience In Alabama, Monroeville’s To Kill a Mockingbird Experience offers insights into locations on which Harper Lee based her blockbuster, including its historic courthouse where it is performed as a play each spring. It also highlights the life of Lee’s neighbour and friend, the author Truman Capote.

Twain trolley tour

Hop aboard a trolley in Elmira, New York State, in July and August for a Twain Country Tour and see where Mark Twain lived and wrote.

Get with the Beat

Author of the 1957 classic On the Road about two friends travelling across America, Jack Kerouac influenced a generation and spearheaded the post-war Beat culture. Take a walking tour of the New York City hangouts he wrote about and visit the cemetery in Lowell, Massachusetts, where he is buried.

Call of the wilderness

The 1,400-acre Jack London State Historic Park in California’s Sonoma Valley commemorates the Call of the Wild author who died in 1916. It preserves the cottage where he wrote and includes a museum, nature trails and the lake he created.

Novel ideas

WELCOMES YOU.

Some of the grand estates on Long Island’s ‘Gold Coast’ are said to have been the inspiration for F. Scott Fitzgerald’s saga of wealth and excess, The Great Gatsby.

Follow the Melville Trail through the Berkshires in Massachusetts to see the family home of Moby Dick author Herman Melville.

Take the Midnight in the Garden of Evil tour in Savannah, Georgia.

The best seller was penned by John Berendt.

Pictured: Opposite page, from top – Ernest Hemingway's house, Key West Florida; Easy Rider; the Mercer-Williams house in Savannah, Georgia, which featured in the book and movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil; Below – Mark Twain House, Hannibal, Missouri

• The Grand Canyon Just 2 Hours From Las Vegas • World Famous • Horesback Rides • Rustic Cabins • 1 & 2 Day White Water Rafting • Helicopter and River Rides

For more information visit the web site, call or email: marketing@grandcanyonresort.com

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2 HOURS FROM LAS VEGAS, USA

00 1 888 888-868-WEST 868 W (9378)

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VISIT OKLAHOMA CITY OKC

Oklahoma City

Western experience Experience America's diverse culture throughout Oklahoma City's unique districts on historic Route 66 ↸

“See Route 66 icons through Oklahoma City such as the Gold Dome Building and the Milk Bottle Building.

Both are in proximity to the State Capitol”

I

f you’re travelling along Route 66, a stop in Oklahoma City is a must. Twelve unique districts encompass Oklahoma City and all are full of visitor-worthy restaurants, attractions and livelihoods which give visitors the perfect experience to see everything OKC has to offer.

Explore cowboy culture in historic Stockyards City with full working stockyards, plenty of stores to shop for cowboy boots, live music at the

Rodeo Opry and dining at OKC’s oldest restaurant, Cattlemen’s Steakhouse. Experience the American West – its history, its people and the places they travelled at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. For great food head to Bricktown, home to dozens of restaurants, unique attractions and a generous helping of turn-of-the-century charm. See

FAVOURITES

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NATIONAL COWBOY & WESTERN HERITAGE MUSEUM The most extensive collection of Western art in the world.

See The Western Performers Gallery to explore the various ways in which the west has been interpreted in literature and film. nationalcowboymuseum.org

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unique museums including the American Banjo Museum and Exhibit C, Bricktown’s premier gallery for Native American Art. Close by, see the Red Earth Native American Museum with a collection of more than 1,400 American Indian art pieces along with a gallery featuring Native American artwork, jewellery, pottery and beadwork.

The Native American influence is strong throughout OKC and the state.

Partnerships with the Chickasaw Nation have strengthened tourism through the promotion of Adventure Road, which highlights the best stops along I-35 from Oklahoma City to Texas. There’s also so much new coming to Oklahoma City, too! From a modern downtown streetcar system that will link to major attractions in the downtown area to a 70-acre downtown park, Oklahoma City is only getting better!

HORSE SHOWS Oklahoma City is the “Horse Show Capital of the World”, attracting the best riders in shows such as the American Quarter Horse World Championship Show and National Reining Horse Futurity.

visitokc.com/equine 3

BRICKTOWN This former warehouse district is now densely packed with dining, dancing, drinking, live music and outdoor venues and is the largest entertainment district in the southwest. welcometobricktown.com

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE Home to the U.S. Olympic Training Site for Canoe/ Kayak, try out the world’s only urban whitewater rafting facility, zip line across the Oklahoma River or take an 80-foot free fall – all in downtown OKC at the Boathouse District. boathousedistrict.org

OKLAHOMA for real heritage COWBOYS GET A TRUE cowboy experience in Stockyards City, home to the Oklahoma National Stockyards where live auctions take place every Monday morning.

Shop for authentic cowboy gear and enjoy live music at the Rodeo Opry. The excellent National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum depicts the rugged spirit and rich influences of cowboy culture – and don’t miss one of many horse shows while you’re in town.

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INDIANS A DEPARTURE from a traditional museum, the Red Earth Art Center in downtown Oklahoma City represents the state’s Native American heritage, primarily through contemporary art. Each June Red Earth hosts the annual Red Earth Native American Cultural Festival offering a Native American dance competition and art show. In Bricktown you’ll find Exhibit C – The Chickasaw Nation’s Native American gallery and retail space.

VISITOKC.COM

ROUTE 66 DID YOU KNOW Oklahoma has more drivable miles of Route 66 than any other state? A drive through OKC will take you by the Oklahoma State Capitol. Add POPS in Arcadia as a destination on your trip – it serves more than 700 varieties of soda. Its colorful space is perfect for pictures, lunch and for trying a drink you’ve never had before. In Clinton, stop by the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum and see why the highway had such an impact on American culture.

Be inspired

VISIT KANSAS & OKLAHOMA America's heartland

Kansas & Oklahoma

Subtly dramatic

FAVOURITES

Back roads, myriad landscapes and eclectic small towns and cities – in Kansas and Oklahoma the real deal is the experience! ↸

“Kansas and Oklahoma is traversed by America’s historic trails, evoking the true character of a young, growing nation. Explore the Chisholm ‘cattle’ Trail, the Pony Express Trail, the Santa Fe Trail, and Route 66 – all rich in Native American and westward expansion history”

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big deep-blue sky frames every horizon as it meets the last stand of the tall grass prairies and broad expanses of the Great Plains. It is here you will find the heart and soul of America, a place where the people are kind: reserved, yet warm-hearted, hospitable, and full of humour.

Kansans and Okies are proud of their history and home towns, and love to share their stories with visitors.

The Heartlands - then & now

‘Cowboys and Indians’: their backgrounds, lives and challenges are fascinating and poignant, and much more than just historical, for cowboy and Native American life very much continues today.

Experience hundreds of annual rodeos and powwows, working guest ranches, and cultural and heritage centres. Eat and shop in towns originally established by native trading routes and early settler trails etched into the rich Kansas and Oklahoma earth.

Let’s eat!

Hearty, delicious food is grown and prepared throughout this two-state

NATIONAL COWBOY & WESTERN HERITAGE MUSEUM, OKLAHOMA CITY Fine western art, pop culture, Native American artifacts and historical cowboy gear – this world-class Museum tells America’s story. nationalcowboymuseum.org

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QUIRKY KANSAS, LUCAS, KS Almost defying description, the small town community of Lucas, KS, is a repository of quirky municipal art and grassroots contemporary culture. It demands a visit.

lucaskansas.com 3

region. Famous fare includes barbeque, fried chicken, onion burgers and pie (with ice cream) – but don’t expect that to be it! A hot and booming local culinary scene is found throughout Kansas City, Lawrence, Wichita, Oklahoma City and Tulsa.

visittulsa.com 4

Rhythm & routes

JJ Cale, Melissa Etheridge, Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, Leon Russell – these famous musicians all hail from Kansas and Oklahoma.

Classic pop, country, rock and bluegrass events are annually abundant, while the beat goes on at the American Banjo Museum in Oklahoma City and at the Woodie Guthrie Center in Tulsa.

24 HOURS IN TULSA, OK This city is the birthplace of Route 66, the Mother Road.

Tulsa offers outstanding museums and art galleries, music and nightlife.

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COSMOSPHERE & UNDERGROUND SALT MUSEUM, HUTCHISON, KS From the endless quest for salt, deep below the Kansas countryside, to the restless exploration of space, these are two fascinating museums! cosmo.org / underkansas.org

NATIVE AMERICA More than 40 Native American tribes are settled in Kansas and Oklahoma. Many share their traditions in cultural centers and at powwows. travelks.com / travelok.com

Out and about in KANSAS & OKLAHOMA BYWAYS THERE ARE eleven designated and signposted byways that grace Kansas, encouraging visitors to take to the road and explore at a gentle pace, with great information and attractions en route, including sites of scenic, historic, and military interest. The routes' titles evoke the experiences offered, from the Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway to the Frontier Military Historic Byway; and the Route 66 Historic Byway to the Smoky Valley Scenic Byway.

ROUTE 66 KNOWN AS the Mother Road and conceived in Tulsa in the 1930s, Route 66 winds from Chicago towards California. It clips 13 miles in Kansas before reaching Oklahoma’s 400-plus miles of drivable route. Here, the Mother Road experience is delivered through a kaleidoscope of quirky and historic places, people and things, with iconic stops around every corner.

Look for diners, classic car shows, second-hand malls and museums.

TRAVELKSOK.CO.UK

PARKS THE GREAT OUTDOORS: Five of Oklahoma’s state parks bring together a range of exciting outdoor activities – on and off the water – from sailing to golfing to hiking to horseback riding, and each offers beautiful fullservice lodge accommodations. In Kansas, meanwhile, State Parks offer the full range of outdoor facilities for visitors traveling in motorhomes and RVs. All parks have special events, concerts, and festivals.

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Be inspired ★

POMP & POLITICS ★

Political intrigue

Pictured: Top – Mount Rushmore National Memorial in the Black Hills of North Dakota features the giant faces of four U.S. presidents; Above – the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library in Hyde Park, New York State; Right – Washington DC's Capitol Building; Opposite – the famous cracked Liberty Bell, Philadelphia

Presidential sites

Presidential libraries and museums can be found in 11 states – California, Texas, Kansas, Arkansas, Missouri, Iowa, Michigan, Georgia, Maryland, New York and Massachusetts – and are open to the public. There are also numerous presidential landmarks, birthplaces, museums, gravesites, statues, monuments, memorials or presidential homes in all but 14 U.S. states.

42

POLITICS has been central to life in America ever since it was a British colony.

There are numerous buildings and sites around the country linked with its leaders and key political events down the years, places that resonate with history.

In Washington, D.C. you can tour the White House (the official presidential residence since 1800) and the U.S. Capitol building – but tickets for both need to be secured in advance. Other notable sites in the capital are the Lincoln Memorial, dedicated to Abraham Lincoln and the Ford Theatre where he was fatally shot. In Philadelphia see Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were both signed, and the famouslycracked Liberty Bell. In Boston walk the historic Freedom Trail and visit the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum for a history lesson with a difference.

␇

“The British are tops for pomp and circumstance but for real political intrigue the U.S. cannot be beaten.

Dramas have unfolded since the times of Jefferson and his Patriots right up to to the present day”

ss e h c t u D This could be your day in...

A tale of two presidents

JFK legacy

The Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas chronicles the history and legacy of JFK, shot while riding in a motorcade in 1963.

Tours also visit other key city sites associated with the assassination.

South Dakota’s Mount Rushmore features the giant carved heads of four U.S. presidents, but in downtown Rapid City visitors come face-toface with life-size statues of every past president.

Illinois capital Springfield’s Old State Capitol is where Barack Obama announced his candidacy for president in 2007 and where Kentucky-born Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous “house divided” anti-slavery speech in 1858, three years before becoming president. Springfield is home to Lincoln’s grave, presidential museum and former residence.

Summer favourite

New England is a favourite presidential summer vacation area.

Massachusetts-born John F Kennedy often stayed in Rhode Island and Hyannis, Massachusetts.

George Bush senior and junior frequently spend vacations in Kennebunkport, Maine, and Barack Obama has holidayed on Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts and in Acadia National Park, Maine.

Walkway Over the Hudson

Secret bunker

Take a tour of a once top-secret Cold War (but never used) bunker built to house Congress in the event of a nuclear attack. It is in a wing of The Greenbrier, a luxury resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.

Mansion Vanderbilt toric Site is H l na Natio

In about an hour, you could be a world away enjoying Dutchess County’s 800 square miles of breathtaking vistas; fascinating historical and cultural sites; family-friendly activities; artisanal food and wine offerings; and colorful fairs and festivals.

Take a short drive, and take advantage of what’s nearby. Experience the Hudson Valley that National Geographic, Fodor’s Travel, and Lonely Planet have all recognized as one of the world’s top travel destinations.

Book it with...

Flight Centre 0800 280 8905 flightcentre.co.uk

DistinctlyDutchess dutchesstourism.com

Be inspired ★

FESTIVALS & EVENTS ★

7

Key Lime festival, Key West (Florida)

Tiny yellow Key limes have flavoured cuisine in the Keys for centuries and each July lime lovers can celebrate the indigenous fruit and the dessert it inspired during the Key Lime Festival. Highlights include a Key lime pie-eating contest, cooking classes and plenty of Key lime rum.

keylimefestival.com

8

Rising to the occasion

1

Restaurant Week

(New York City) Grab a great-value meal-deal at some of the Big Apple’s top restaurants during NYC Restaurant Week, which takes place twice a year (summer and winter) in all the city's neighbourhoods. Almost 400 eateries offer three-course lunches for $29 and three-course dinners for $42. nycgo.com/restaurantweek

2

Beer Month

(North Carolina) Sample beers produced by more than 150 breweries from across North Carolina and discover the locations where craft beer is thriving – from Ashville in the mountains to Wilmington on the coast. The fifth NC Beer Month takes place in April 2017. ncbeermonth.com

3 Pictured: Top – colours of the Adirondack Balloon Festival; Right: the Crazy Horse Volksmarch

44

Adirondack Balloon Festival (New York State)

This free four-day event each September in the Adirondack Mountains of New York State is one of the nation's oldest and largest hot air ballooning events. Bring a blanket and watch colourful balloons eclipse the mountain just after sunrise or close to sunset. Local food outlets offer farm-to-table produce.

adirondackballoonfest.org

4

Euphoria at food festival (South Carolina)

Taking place each September in Greenville, South Carolina, this four-day event features food trucks, distilleries, tasting events, cooking demonstrations, wine seminars, multi-course dinners, live music and celebrity chefs, plus ‘pitmasters’ to prepare the perfect southern BBQ. euphoriagreenville.com

5

The State Fair (Texas) A Texas tradition since 1886 and the longest-running fair in the U.S. (24 days), the fair features carnival rides, livestock shows, live music, petting zoos, pig races and plenty of fried food (anyone for deep-fried Oreos and Lone Star Pork Handle?). Held in Fair Park, Dallas, it begins its run in late September. everfest.com

6

Newport Winter Festival (Rhode Island)

The annual festival is held in February and features over 150 events. Expect ice-sculpting, a chilli cook-off, a costumed pet parade, an illuminated garden with thousands of lights, a Winter Festival Princess Party for kids and tribute bands.

While in town, explore the famous Cliffwalk and see the iconic Newport Mansions.

newportwinterfestival.com

Denver Powwow

(Colorado) Each winter since 1984 Denver has celebrated its American Indian heritage at this three-day Denver March Powwow.

In March 2017 it will feature more than 1,600 participants drawn from close to 100 tribes. denvermarchpowwow.org

9

Crazy Horse Volksmarch

(South Dakota) The Crazy Horse Volksmarch in early June and October allows participants to get a close-up view of the world's largest mountain carving. The hike, a 10km ramble, is the only time the public can visit the top of the nine-storey-high Crazy Horse Memorial. crazyhorsememorial.org

10

Yukon Quest (Alaska)

This 1,000-mile dog-sled race takes place between Fairbanks and Whitehorse, Alaska, every February. It gets its name from the ‘highway of the north,’ the Yukon River and the winter land routes once travelled by prospectors heading between the gold fields of the Klondike and those in Alaska.

yukonquest.com

Be inspired

VISIT VERMONT The Green Mountain State

Vermont with a view See the beauty of the U.S. northeast in the Green Mountain State where visitors can enjoy gorgeous scenic byways and colourful tree canopies ↸

“The term ‘small but mighty’ was meant for Vermont. Just over four hours end to end, with great beauty, world beating breweries, cheeses, chefs, artists and a population renowned for hospitality – we sure pack it in”

1

T

he most westerly of the New England states, Vermont is perfectly situated to start or end a trip to New York City, Boston or Montreal in Canada. Its gently ambling national scenic byways make it the perfect introduction to driving in the U.S. and its warm and welcoming population means there is always someone to stop and ask the way. Everyone visitors encounter will be keen to share the Green Mountain State's beauty with them.

Travel tips

For the ultimate city and state break take the Ethan Allen Express out of New York City into the heart of Vermont. You can then pick up your rental car and away you go. To return to NYC, drop the car at Burlington Airport and fly back to JFK in an hour (amtrak.com/btv.aero).

Billboards are illegal in Vermont.

Vermonters don’t allow anything to spoil the view so the only roadside signs will be pointing towards the next covered bridge or artisan workshop (vermontvacation.co.uk).

Attraction ideas

Vermont is the home of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, one of the region's best-

VERMONT FAVOURITES

RUDYARD KIPLING wrote the Jungle Book while living near Brattleboro Vermont.

You can rent his elegant home Naulakha, now owned by the Landmark Trust USA. landmarktrustusa.org/properties/ rudyard-kiplings-naulakha

2

JAY PEAK RESORT in the North East Kingdom has a gigantic indoor waterpark.

You can go from a skiing and snowboarding winter wonderland to a subtropical fantasy just by popping indoors.

jaypeakresort.com 3

known visitor attractions. Visit the factory and enjoy a tasting on Scenic Route 100 – ‘nuff said? (benjerry. com/waterbury).

Vermont has the highest concentration of micro-breweries per capita in the USA, so check out vermontvacation.co.uk to discover the state's brewery trail. Or, if you are travelling with family, don’t miss the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory on Scenic Route 7 (vermontteddybear.com).

And no Vermont trip is complete without time out on glorious Lake Champlain (one of the largest in the U.S. after the Great Lakes). Before you go out on the water, visit the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, in Burlington and discover what is going on underneath (echovermont.org).

ONE OF ONLY two Land Rover Driving Experiences in the U.S. can be found in Manchester, VT, near the state's southern border. It’s also home to famous fly fishing specialists, Orvis. manchestervermont.com

4

VERMONT not only grows fine foods, but also raises some of America’s best food artisans.

Visit New England Culinary Institute (NECI) in Montpelier and sample their skills.

neci.edu 5

VERMONT HAS SIX SEASONS – the four spectacular ones you’d expect, plus Mud in early April before May brings spring, and Stick just before the snow arrives for Thanksgiving! vermontvacation.co,uk

The best of VERMONT CYCLING THE ISLAND Line Rail Trail, newly restored and connecting Burlington VT with the Hero Islands on Lake Champlain, is a remarkable bike path. A causeway made of Vermont marble, it was laid in the nineteenth century to carry dairy trains to New York from Vermont’s farms. Now finished off with its own bike ferry, it offers visitors a gentle and unique way to appreciate the lake shore and take in some of Vermont's beautiful views. traillink.com/trail/island-line-rail-trail

MAPLE VERMONT IS PROUD of its maple trees. As the state with the highest concentration of maples, it is lauded for its breathtaking colour in fall. In March, however, these beloved trees offer another precious gift – maple syrup. Vermont is the largest producer of Grade A maple syrup in the U.S. and there is nothing quite like climbing into a horse-drawn sleigh and heading into the woods to find a sugar shack. vermontmaple.org

SNOWBOARD VERMONT CONSIDERS itself the home of snowboarding.

World famous brand Burton Snowboards is still owned and operated from Vermont and now offers a free-tovisit board R&D facility in Burlington called Craig’s.

For anyone interested in one of the world’s coolest sports, or simply a fan of cutting-edge design, this is a must-visit. Book a tour on the website and view forty years of snowboarding history. burton.com

VERMONTVACATION.CO.UK 45

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ”HERE ” AND ” THERE ” IS ONLY A PLANE RIDE AWAY.

Enjoy nonstop transatlantic flights to Atlanta, Boston, Detroit, Minneapolis, New York JFK, Philadelphia, Portland*, Salt Lake City, Seattle and more in partnership with Virgin Atlantic.

Seamless connections across the USA. DELTA.COM

Flights are operated in partnership with Virgin Atlantic. *Effective May 27, 2017 © 2016 Delta Air Lines, Inc.

State round-up

STATE ROUND-UP Highlights • State Secrets • Essential Information

From Alabama to Wyoming, find out all about the U.S. states and territories in this quick reference guide

Alabama / Alaska / American Samoa / Arizona / Arkansas / California / Colorado / Connecticut / Delaware / Florida / Georgia / Guam / Hawaii / Idaho / Illinois / Indiana / Iowa / Kansas / Kentucky / Louisiana / Maine / Maryland / Massachusetts / Michigan / Minnesota / Mississippi / Missouri / Montana / Nebraska / Nevada / New Hampshire / New Jersey / New Mexico / New York / North Carolina / North Dakota / North Marianas / Ohio / Oklahoma / Oregon / Pennsylvania / Puerto Rico / Rhode Island / South Carolina / South Dakota / Tennessee / Texas / US Virgin Islands / Utah / Vermont / Virginia / Washington / Washington DC / West Virginia / Wisconsin / Wyoming

ALabama

Alaska

American Samoa

Sweet Home Alabama

The Last Frontier

Where America’s Sun Sets

Enjoy live music on the beach at 'Florabama'

The Denali Highway, Alaska

National Park of American Samoa

Highlights: Sweet Home Alabama is more than a song. It is a place where beauty, history, culture and adventure come together.

Rivers, canyons, vibrant cities, white-sand beaches and true southern hospitality.

Highlights: More mountains than buildings, more wildlife than people and more glaciers than traffic lights – Alaska is one of the world's last true wilderness destinations. It has the tallest mountains, the largest areas of national parklands and the longest coastline in the United States.

Highlights: Explore 10,000 acres of lush tropical rainforest that make up the only National Park below the equator or grab your diving gear and experience the thriving marine life, including the largest coral heads in the world.

State of Alaska • 020 7953 7470 • Capital: Juneau • International gateway: Seattle • Regional gateways: Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau

American Samoa Visitors Bureau • +1 684 699 9805 • Capital: Pago Pago • International gateways: Honolulu, Pago Pago

State Secret: The U.S. Space & Rocket Center, Huntsville, is the world's largest space museum and Barber Motorsports, Birmingham, is the largest motorcycle museum. The recording studios in Muscle Shoals used by the Rolling Stones are open for tours.

Alabama Tourism Department • 020 8339 6122 • Capital: Montgomery • International gateway: Atlanta • Regional gateways: Birmingham, Montgomery, Mobile

alabamA.travel

State Secret: One in every 87 Alaska residents is an active pilot. There are many opportunities to experience the state's Native art and traditional music.

State Secret: The National Park hiking trails promise fun and adventure, while the WWII hiking trails will take you on an historic journey. Visit islands Aunu’u and Manu’a for an exotic experience.

travelalaska.com

americansamoa.travel

47

State round-up

Arizona

Arkansas

California

The Grand Canyon State

The Natural State

The Golden State

The Grand Canyon National Park

The boyhood home of Johnny Cash

Family-friendly San Diego

Highlights: From cosmopolitan cities to Native American culture, Grand Canyon camping to luxury resorts, sun-drenched desert to aquatic activities, and exhilarating sports to relaxing spas, Arizona has it all.

Highlights: Clinton Presidential Library & Museum, Johnny Cash Boyhood Home, General Douglas MacArthur Birthplace, WWII Japanese American Internment Museum, Hot Springs National Park, Walmart Museum and the King Biscuit Blues Fest.

Highlights: 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.

Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism • +1 501 682 7777 • Capital: Little Rock • Int'l gateways: Atlanta, Charlotte, Miami • Regional gateway: Little Rock

Visit California • 020 7257 6180 • Capital: Sacramento • International gateways: Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Oakland, San Jose

visitarizona.com

arkansas.com

visitcalifornia.co.uk

Colorado

Connecticut

DELAWARE

The Centennial State

The Constitution State

The First State

State Secret: Arizona has the longest stretch of the original Historic Route 66 highway, otherwise known as the Mother Road. There is no better way to experience this iconic part of American history! The state is also home to 22 Native American tribes.

Arizona Office of Tourism • 020 7593 1718 • Capital: Phoenix • International gateway: Phoenix • Regional gateways: Tucson, Flagstaff

State Secret: Lake Tahoe, set inland amidst the majestic High Sierra mountains, boasts miles of stunning sandy beaches, crystal-clear water for kayaking and even an underwater state park – Emerald Bay.

Mesa Verde National Park, a premier archeological wonder

Tall ships at New London Waterfront

Nemours Mansion and Gardens

Highlights: Colorado offers unparalleled year-round adventure, arts, Western heritage, distinctive cuisine and 25 ski resorts. The state's scenic landscape boasts natural hot springs, 58 mountain peaks that top 14,000 feet and 11 impressive national parks and monuments.

Highlights: Experience forests, hills, shoreline, historic village greens and vibrant cities. Popular attractions include Mystic Seaport, Yale University, Mark Twain House, Scenic Byways, wineries and vineyards.

Highlights: Visitors can look forward to miles of pristine beaches and fun coastal towns. Then they enjoy a tax-free shopping spree, or indulge in a bygone era at regal DuPont mansions.

Connecticut Office of Tourism • 01825 763 633 • Capital: Hartford • Int'l gateways: New York, Boston • Regional gateways: Hartford, Stamford, New Haven

Delaware Tourism Office • +1 866 284 7483 • Capital: Dover • Int'l gateways: Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington DC • Regional gateway: Wilmington

State Secret: Established by congress in 1906, Mesa Verde is the first national park set aside to preserve works of humankind.

A designated UNESCO Heritage Site, its cliff dwellings date back to AD 450.

Colorado Tourism Office • 020 7240 4071 • Capital: Denver • International gateway: Denver

Colorado.com

48

State Secret: At Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro you can dig for diamonds and keep what you find! For a fee you can dig for these gems, and it is the only public diamond mine in the world.

State Secret: Speciality trails for arts, antiques, breweries, vineyards, hiking, biking and watersports await visitors. Culinary offerings include celebrity chef restaurants and fantastic seafood, and 'farm-to-fork' experiences.

ctvisit.com

State Secret: Experience some off-thebeaten-track excitement at a number of insider favourites such as Fort Delaware, Mt. Cuba Nature Center, Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, and Trap Pond State Park.

Visitdelaware.com

State round-up

FloriDA

georgiA

gUAm

The Sunshine State

The Peach State

Where America's Day Begins

Snorkelling in the Florida Keys

Georgia's beautiful Golden Isles

Guam's Apaca Point

Highlights: Florida is home to the theme park capital of the world as well as the spectacular Everglades, while visitors also flock to its 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.

Highlights: From the foothills of the Appalachians in the north through bustling Atlanta and down through to historic Savannah and the barrier island coast, Georgia is 'the South in a nutshell’.

Highlights: Micronesia's largest island is home to beautiful beaches, WWII historic sites and world-class diving. The island also offers tropical trails to hike along and scenic views. Its close location to the equator gives year-round tropical weather.

Visit Florida • 020 7932 2406 • Capital: Tallahassee • International gateways: Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale

Georgia Tourism USA • 01342 323 658 • Capital: Atlanta • International gateways: Atlanta, Orlando • Regional gateways: Savannah, Augusta

State Secret: The crystalline waters in the Florida Keys are perfect for snorkelling.

State Secret: Georgia’s barrier island coast including Tybee Island and Cumberland Islands are a shorter drive from Orlando than Atlanta. Savannah, a quintessentially romantic southern city, sits at the northern end of the coast.

State Secret: One of the world's most unique dive sites are the Tokai Maru and SMS Cormoran – two shipwrecks from two wars and two countries are linked below the surface.

Guam Visitors Bureau • +1 671 646 5278/9 • Capital: Hagatña • International gateway: Micronesia

VISITFLORIDA.COM

exPLOReGeORGIA.ORG

VISITGUAM.COM

hAWAi‘i

iDAho

illinoiS

The Aloha State

The Gem State

The Land of Lincoln

blowing of the Pu, a deep part of the Hawaiian culture

Unique ranching experiences

Route 66, Americana begins in Illinois

Highlights: The fresh, floral air energises you. The warm, tranquil waters refresh you.

The breathtaking, natural beauty renews you.

Look around. There’s no place on earth like Hawai‘i. Six Hawaiian Islands – six unique experiences.

Highlights: Idaho is ideal for family travellers, outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, or those just looking for a relaxing getaway.

Highlights: 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 music, dining and shopping you must visit Chicago.

State Secret: You will be surprised to find very few people on the stunning Papohaku beach, which is the longest white-sand beach throughout the Hawaiian Islands.

Hawai‘i Tourism Europe • 020 7593 1775 • Capital: Honolulu • International gateways: Honolulu • Regional gateways: Kailua-Kona, Hilo

GOHAWAII.COM/UK

State Secret: The beautiful state has a variety of landscapes – from forests to desert, mountains and lakes – and it is home to the wonderful Shoshone Falls which are higher than the Niagara Falls.

Idaho Tourism • 020 7644 6108 • Capital: Boise • International gateways: Minneapolis, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Salt Lake City • Regional gateways: Boise, Idaho Falls, Hailey, Lewiston, Pocatello/Arbon Valley, Twin Falls

VISITIDAHO.ORG

State Secret: Start your Route 66 adventure by visiting quirky roadside attractions such as the Gemini Giant, the world's largest ketchup bottle and covered wagon and be sure to stop off at 1950s-style diners.

Illinois Office of Tourism • 01295 722 816 • Capital: Springfield • International gateway: Chicago • Regional gateway: Springfield

eNJOYILLINOIS.CO.UK

49

State round-up

indiana

iowa

kansas

The Hoosier State

The Hawkeye State

The Sunflower State

Parke County, Indiana

Preparation Canyon State Park offers views of the Loess Hills

History, culture, outdoors – the essence of Kansas

Highlights: Genuine experiences are found during a visit to the Hoosier state!

Diverse geography, eclectic foods, natural attractions and unique history are just some of the genuine experiences on offer in the Hoosier state.

Highlights: Visit the iconic Field of Dreams, explore the rare Loess Hills, bike miles of rolling countryside, marvel at the Mighty Mississippi River and enjoy charming small towns or bustling urban centres.

Highlights: Kansas is energising, reflective, relaxing and rejuvenating. Discover its rich history, its storied trails and Wild West towns: Wichita, Dodge City and Abilene.

Drive through friendly, quirky communities.

Iowa Tourism Office • +1 51 5725 3084 • Capital: Des Moines • International gateway: Chicago • Regional gateways: Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Sioux City

Kansas Tourism • 01292 313 969 • Capital: Topeka • Int'l gateways: Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, New York, Atlanta • Regional gateways: Kansas City, Wichita

State Secret: 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.

Indiana Office of Tourism Development • +1 317 232 8860 • Capital: Indianapolis • International gateways: Indianapolis, Chicago, Cincinnnati

State Secret: Historically a crossroads for explorers and settlers heading west and cowboys driving herds north to the railroads, Kansas today is home to intriguing scenic and historic byways and cosmopolitan cities rich with culture.

VISITINDIANA.COM

traveliowa.com

kentucky

Louisiana

Maine

The Bluegrass State

Pelican State

The Pine Tree State

TRAVELKSOK.CO.UK

Cumberland Falls rafting

New Orlean's world-famous French Quarter

Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park

Highlights: You can travel the world and not experience what you will find in Kentucky. There’s only one Bourbon Country and only one Horse Capital of the World – and that is Kentucky.

Highlights: Louisiana really is a state like no other in the U.S. With a rich cultural blend of Spanish, French, African, Caribbean, Cajun and Creole, you will have a genuinely unique and memorable experience.

Highlights: The state's dramatic rocky shorelines, majestic mountains and long sandy beaches combine with picturesque towns, notable cuisine and cultural attractions to appeal to visitors seeking an authentic vacation.

State Secret: The great outdoors comes alive in Kentucky with mountains, lush forests, caves, streams, rivers and lakes.

The state has more than 12 million forested acres including Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest cave system in the world.

Kentucky Tourism • 01462 440 766 • Capital: Frankfort • International gateways: Cincinatti/ Northern Kentucky, Chicago, Atlanta, Philadelphia

kentuckytourism.com

50

State Secret: RAGBRAI (The Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa) is the world's longest, largest and oldest touring bike ride. The week-long ride covers 500+ miles from west to east border.

State Secret: Louisiana hosts over 400 festivals a year, from the world famous Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) celebrated throughout the state, Jazz Fest & French Quarter Fest, to the unquestionably Louisianan Gumbo Festival.

Louisiana Office of Tourism • 020 8460 7082 • Capital: Baton Rouge • Int'l gateways: Atlanta, Dallas • Regional gateways: Baton Rouge, New Orleans

louisianatravel.com

State Secret: Maine has the fourth highest number of breweries per capita in the U.S. according to the Brewers Association. Today there are more than 70 craft beer breweries found along the Maine Beer Trail.

Maine Office of Tourism • 01825 763 633 • Capital: Augusta • International gateway: Boston • Regional gateways: Portland, Bangor, Augusta

visitmaine.com

State round-up

Maryland

Massachusetts

michigan

The Free State

The Bay State

The Great Lakes State

Assateague Island National Seashore

Boston's skyline is eye-catching in the fall

Kayaking along Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Highlights: 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.

Highlights: Enjoy beautiful sandy beaches, wondrous scenery, stunning fall foliage and amazing winter activities. Paired with great shopping, attractions, festivals, sports, museums and mouthwatering cuisine, great holidays are made here.

Highlights: Come here 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.

Maryland Office of Tourism • 020 8339 6048 • Capital: Annapolis • International gateways: Baltimore, Washington DC, Dulles • Regional gateway: Annapolis

Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism • 020 8313 1717 • Capital: Boston • Int'l gateway: Boston • Regional gateways: Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard

Travel Michigan • 01295 722 816 • Capital: Lansing • Int'l gateways: Detroit, Chicago, Minneapolis • Regional gateways: Traverse City, Grand Rapids

State Secret: No visit to Maryland is complete without tasting Blue Crab. Crab cakes can be found on most menus, but the secret is steaming them and cracking the claws. Every chef uses his own recipe.

State Secret: The Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism website is a great resource for holiday planning. Be an insider by following the Massfinds blog and follow them on Twitter and Instagram @VisitMA.

State Secret: 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 these as a volunteer keeper or on a relaxing excursion.

visitmaryland.org

MASSHOLIDAY.CO.UK

michigan.org

Minnesota

Mississippi

Missouri

Land of Sky Blue Waters

The Magnolia State

The Show-Me State

Voyageurs National Park, Northern Minnesota

The GRAMMY Museum Mississippi

Chain of Rocks Bridge, Route 66 in St. Louis

Highlights: 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.

Highlights: Come on down for some thrilling live music, history, outdoor fun and authentic southern cooking. Explore the historic Natchez Trace Parkway or follow the Mississippi Blues Trail, and explore the Mississippi Gulf Coast . You'll be glad you did!

Highlights: Just 45 minutes off Route 66, Branson, Missouri, features more theatre seats than Broadway and boasts more than 100 live shows per day from May to October.

There is entertainment to please any guest!

Explore Minnesota • +1 651 757 1845 • Capital: Saint Paul • International gateway: Minneapolis-St. Paul • Regional gateways: Duluth, Rochester

Mississippi Tourism • 01462 440787 • Capital: Jackson • International gateway: Atlanta • Regional gateways: Jackson, Biloxi, Meridian, Vicksburg

Missouri Division of Tourism • +1 573 751 4133 • Capital: Jefferson City • International Gateway: Chicago • Regional gateways: St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield

visitmississippi.org

visitmo.com

State Secret: Voyageurs National Park is a water paradise and one of six National Park sites in Minnesota which also includes Mississippi National River & Recreation Area in Minneapolis-St. Paul.

exploreminnesota.com

State Secret: The new GRAMMY Museum Mississippi in Cleveland celebrates the legacies of all forms of music, the art and technology of the recording process and the history of the GRAMMY Awards.

State Secret: Home to Mark Twain, Kansas City jazz and St. Louis blues. Route 66’s romantic status as a roadway to the west was recognized in song 'Get Your Kicks on Route 66'. Explore almost 483km of this iconic roadway in the state that named her.

51

State round-up

montAnA

nebrASkA

nevADA

The Big Sky State

The Cornhusker State

The Silver State

Glacier National Park

Lake McConaughy, Nebraska’s largest lake

basin and Range National Monument

Highlights: Montana is untamed, wild and natural, a blend of scenery, history and recreation. To the north is Glacier National Park, to the south is Yellowstone, with a wealth of ranches, rodeos and old mining towns between.

Highlights: Handfeed buffalo from inside a covered wagon or snap a selfie with exotic animals at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium. Float leisurely downriver in a horse-watering tank (like a large bathtub!) while relaxing in the beautiful surrounds of the impressive Nebraska Sandhills.

Highlights: Epitomised by never-ending skies and wide-open spaces, from the bright lights of Las Vegas to the rugged Wild West countryside and 'The Lonliest Road in America'. Come here to see showgirls, cowboys, ghosts and 'aliens' at play.

Montana Office of Tourism & Business Development • 01825 763636 • Capital: Helena • International gateways: Denver, Minneapolis St. Paul, Salt Lake City, Seattle

Nebraska Tourism Commission • +1 402 471 3796 • Capital: Lincoln • Regional gateways: Lincoln, Omaha, Scottsbluff, North Platte, Grand Island

Nevada Commission on Tourism • 020 7367 0935 • Capital: Carson City • International gateways: Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles

VISITMT.COM

VISITNebRASKA.COM

TRAVeLNeVADA.CO.UK

neW JerSey

neW mexico

The Garden State

Land of Enchantment

State Secret: Virginia City was founded in 1863 and is considered to be the most complete original town of its kind in the United States. Visit for a feel of the true Old West and the Victorian era.

neW hAmpShire The Granite State

Lake Wentworth, Wolfeboro

Glitzy seaside fun in Atlantic City

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Alburquerque

Highlights: New Hampshire's four distinct seasons offer diverse experiences: autumn leaf-peeping, fresh packedpowder skiing in winter, spring maple syrup and summer by the scenic lakes and coastlines.

Highlights: From beaches and boardwalks to lighthouses, shopping outlets and Edison’s lab, New Jersey offers a wealth of diverse attractions. Iconic destinations include Victorian Cape May, the Pinelands, and the beloved Jersey Shore.

Highlights: 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 everything you experience.

New Hampshire Division of Travel and Tourism • +1 603 271 2665 • Capital: Concord • Int'l gateways: Boston, New York • Regional gateway: Manchester

New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism • +1 800 847 4865 • Capital: Trenton • International gateways: Newark, Atlantic City, Philadelphia • Regional gateway: Princeton

New Mexico Tourism Department • +1 505 827 7336 • Capital: Santa Fe • Int'l gateways: Dallas, Denver, Phoenix, Los Angeles • Regional gateway: Alburquerque

State Secret: Route 112, known as the Kancamagus Highway, offers spectacular scenery. It is one of the best Fall Foliage viewing areas and has ‘American Beauty Byway’ status.

VISITNH.GOV

52

State Secret: Nebraska welcomes 500,000 Sandhill cranes each spring and 340,000 baseball fans for the College World Series.

State Secret: There are over 300 naturally occurring hot springs across the state. Do as the locals do and head out into the vast wilderness for some R&R and reap the benefits of the mineral rich water.

State Secret: Learn about the nation’s patriotic past at American Revolutionary War sites in Morristown, Monmouth, Princeton, Red Bank and Trenton.

VISITNJ.ORG

State Secret: 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 New Mexican foods or chocolate, beer and wine.

NeWMexICO.ORG

State round-up

north CAROLINA

North Dakota

The Empire State

The Tar Heel State

The Peace Garden State

© Larry Tetamore

nEW YORK

Letchworth State Park

Wild horses on the North Carolina Coast

Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park

Highlights: Discover breathtaking scenery, cultural treasures, sandy beaches, sky-high mountains, country roads and city sidewalks. New York spans a variety of landscapes and the state's 11 vacation regions have just what you’re looking for.

Highlights: North Carolina invites you in, stimulates the senses and will captivate you. From the highest mountains in the eastern United States, to 300 miles of pristine coast, quaint small towns and vibrant city life.

Highlights: Channel your inner explorer in North Dakota: spot wildlife in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, enjoy outdoor activities from birdwatching to biking, step back in time at the Custer House and discover a state rich in history and culture.

New York State Division of Tourism • 020 3697 4249 • Capital: Albany • International gateway: New York City (JFK & Newark) • Regional gateway: Buffalo

Visit North Carolina • 020 8460 3582 • Capital: Raleigh • International gateways: Charlotte, Raleigh • Regional gateways: Asheville, Wilmington

North Dakota Department of Tourism • 01825 763 636 • Capital: Bismarck • Int'l gateways: Minneapolis St Paul, Denver • Regional gateways: Fargo, Bismarck

Iloveny.com

uk.visitnc.com

ndtourism.com

north marianas

OHIO

OKLAHOMA

America's Best-Kept Secret State

The Buckeye State

The Sooner State

State Secret: From the Catskill Mountains to the Finger Lakes’ gorges, this spectacular backdrop makes autumn perfect for waterfall watching. Niagara Falls presents an awesome show.

State Secret: Escaped from Spanish ships, wild Spanish mustangs roam North Carolina's coast. These wild horses have run free for nearly 500 years on the beaches of Corolla & Shackleford Banks.

State Secret: Take a trip down the Enchanted Highway for a glimpse of classic roadside art: unique giant metal sculptures including Geese in Flight, the World's Largest Grasshopper and a Tin Family.

Diving adventures await

Hocking Hills State Park

Expect a genuine Western welcome in Oklahoma

Highlights: A Micronesian paradise of 14 islands in the western Pacific with magnificent beaches and crystal-clear waters, mountainous landscapes, a rich history, diving, golf and a cacophony of international and indigenous cultures.

Highlights: Cleveland’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Columbus’ world renowned zoo, Cincinnati’s historic paddle-wheel boats, Cedar Point, the world’s number one-rated roller coaster park and Hocking Hills State Park are highlights of Ohio.

Highlights: Oklahoma takes you on a journey through time filled with Native American, western and contemporary experiences.

Discover rich history and breathtaking wildlife and parks, food fairs and festivals.

Marianas Visitors Authority • +1 670 664 3200/3201 • Capital: Saipan • International gateways: Saipan

Tourism Ohio • 01295 722 816 • Capital: Columbus • International gateways: Chicago, Detroit • Regional gateways: Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo

State Secret: The island of Tinian is home to Micronesia’s only full-scale international standards gaming casino. An opulent, marble-lined resort houses the casino and luxury accommodation.

MYMARIANAS.COM

State Secret: The Amish may be slow moving in their horse and buggies but their population is growing fast, with Ohio having the largest population in the world at over 60,000.

DISCOVEROHIO.COM

State Secret: There's vibrant Native American and cowboy culture statewide and at June’s Red Earth Festival, Oklahoma City, the biggest of its kind in the world.

Also, drive Route 66, the 'Mother Road'.

Oklahoma Tourism • 01292 313 969 • Capital: Oklahoma City • International gateways: Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, New York, Atlanta • Regional gateways: Oklahoma City, Tulsa

travelksok.co.uk

53

State round-up

Oregon

Pennsylvania

Puerto Rico

The Beaver State

The Keystone State

The All Star Island

The picturesque Oregon Coast

The Liberty Bell

Visit Puerto Rico – there's no place like it

Highlights: Oregon is a state of natural wonders, windswept beaches, verdant forests and snow-capped peaks. With more Scenic Byways than any other state and no sales tax, there is plenty to discover.

Highlights: 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.

Highlights: Puerto Rico is a captivating paradise combining Caribbean culture with Spanish heart and American style. Relax on some of the best beaches in the world or, if you're seeking adventure, how about zip-lining over the world's highest forest canopy or learning to surf in Rincon?

State Secret: Don't miss Crater Lake National Park and the 33-mile drive around the rim for some breathtaking scenery, or visit Hells Canyon National Recreation Area for some equally spectacular scenery. From November to June, visitors may spot Gray Whales passing along the Oregon Coast.

Travel Oregon • 01326 250 213 • Capital: Salem • Int'l gateways: Portland • Regional gateway: Eugene

Pennsylvania Tourism Office • +1 800 847 4872 • Capital: Harrisburg • Int'l gateway: Philadelphia • Regional gateways: Pittsburgh, Gettysburg, Hershey

State Secret: Did you know the piña colada was invented in Puerto Rico? Plus, from November 2016 to March 2017, Norwegian will fly direct from London to San Juan from just £159 one-way including taxes.

Puerto Rico Tourism Company • 020 7593 1782 • Capital: San Juan • International gateway: San Juan

traveloregon.com

VISITPA.COM

seepuertorico.com

Rhode Island

south carolina

South Dakota

The Ocean State

The Palmetto State

The Mount Rushmore State

The Breakers, the opulent Vanderbilt Mansion

South Carolina's sandy beaches

Mount Rushmore

Highlights: Enjoy 400 miles of winding coastline along Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic, elegant Newport Mansions, sandy South County beaches, spectacular ocean vistas and the serenity of Block Island and the historic Blackstone River Valley.

Highlights: South Carolina features 300kms of sandy beaches, plus resort islands, historic cities, country towns, great shopping and world-class golf. Dining includes fresh seafood and Southern cooking.

Highlights: Take a Scenic Byway through the Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota to discover iconic monuments, including Mount Rushmore, National Parks, old west history, granite peaks, towering pines and Crazy Horse Memorial.

State Secret: Newport’s oceanfront mansions were merely summer ‘cottages’ for the wealthiest 19th century socialite families.

Explore The Breakers, the Vanderbilt family's most imposing mansion of them all.

54

State Secret: Designed in 1935, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater was partially 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.

State Secret: The 'Gullah Corridor' stems from the time when West Africans were enslaved on Southern plantations. The Gullah culture is still very much alive and its historical landmarks remain popular.

Rhode Island Tourism Division • 01825 763 633 • Capital: Providence • International gateways: Boston, New York • Regional gateways: Providence, Newport

South Carolina Tourism • +1 803 734 1164 • Capital: Columbia • International gateways: Atlanta, Charlotte • Regional gateways: Charleston, Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach

visitrhodeisland.com

SouthCarolinaUSA.co.uk

State Secret: The striking geological deposits of Badlands National Park contain one of the world's richest fossil beds. Ancient mammals such as the rhino, horse and saber-toothed cat once roamed here.

South Dakota Department of Tourism • 01825 763 636 • Capital: Pierre • Int'l gateways: Minneapolis St Paul, Denver • Regional gateways: Rapid City, Sioux Falls

travelsouthdakota.com

State round-up

Texas

us virgin islands

The Volunteer State

The Lone Star State

USVI

© EPE Inc. Reg. U.S. Pat. & TM Off.

Tennessee

Elvis in front of his famous home, Graceland

Boot scoot to Texas!

Trunk Bay, St. John, features an underwater snorkel trail

Highlights: 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 can only be 'Made in Tennessee'.

Highlights: Texas offers sensational and exciting travel experiences including American cowboy heritage, amusement parks, food, history, music, sports, tax free shopping and much more! Enjoy the Hill Country, open prairies and stunning landscapes. Experience everything Texas has to offer.

Highlights: The U.S. Virgin Islands is part of the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean.

The three main islands – St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas – are each distinguished by their own personality.

State Secret: Anniversaries abound in 2017 from Elvis and Stax to the Ryman Auditorium and RCA Studio B, plus a new music trail from the Mississippi River to the Smokies.

Tennessee Tourism • 01462 440 784 • Capital: Nashville • International gateway: Atlanta • Regional gateways: Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville

tnvacation.com

State Secret: The underwater snorkel trail in Trunk Bay, St. John, is a must-see attraction in the USVI. The marked signs make it easy to navigate and explore the bay's colourful marine life.

State Secret: Located in the southwest of Texas, Big Bend National Park has national significance as the largest protected area of the Chihuahuan Desert in the United States.

U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism • +1 340 774 8784 • Capital: Charlotte Amalie • Int'l gateways: New York City, New Jersey, Miami, Boston, Charlotte, Fort Lauderdale, Washington DC

Texas Tourism • 020 8313 1717 • Capital: Austin • Int'l gateways: Austin, Dallas Fort Worth, Houston

Traveltexas.com

Visitusvi.com

vermont

Virginia

The Green Mountain State

The Old Dominion State

vermontvacation.co.uk by Kevin Armstrong

Utah The Beehive State

The night sky in Capitol Reef National Park

Vermont's beautiful fall colours

Virginia Wine and Oysters

Highlights: Explore Utah's Mighty 5 National Parks (Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches and Canyonlands National Parks), take a mountain hike, discover fresh powder in the 'Greatest Snow on Earth', stroll around vibrant towns and cities, or drive one of the many Scenic Byways.

Highlights: Vermont is truly a four seasons destination, with world-famous fall foliage and the greatest snowfall on the east coast. The Green Mountain scenery provides a spectacular backdrop for precious time in the great outdoors.

Highlights: Sip wine from 280+ wineries paired with oysters from seven unique regions found along Virginia's Oyster Trail.

Stroll streets with over 400 years of history, where Washington and Jefferson trod. Visit Bristol, official birthplace of country music.

Utah Office of Tourism • 01825 763 636 • Capital: Salt Lake City • Int'l gateways: Salt Lake City, Las Vegas

Vermont Dept. of Tourism • 0800 345 7322 • Capital: Montpelier • Int'l gateways: New York, Montréal, Boston • Regional gateways: Montpelier, Burlington

Virginia Tourism Corporation • 020 8339 6048 • Capital: Richmond • Int'l gateway: Washington Dulles • Regional gateways: Richmond, Arlington, Norfolk

visitutah.com/uk

vermontvacation.co.uk

virginia.org

State Secret: Utah has the largest concentration of International Dark Sky Parks in the World. Where better to take in spectacular views of constellations, stars, planets and even the Milky Way?

State Secret: With over 7,000 miles of rivers and streams, Vermont is a ‘wild swimming’ hot-spot with popular Bristol Falls or hidden gems like Warren Falls and Circle Current.

State Secret: Virginia boasts 544 miles of the world-famous Appalachian Trail – more than any other state – with many along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway and in Shenandoah National Park.

55

State round-up

Washington

Washington, DC

west virginia

The Evergreen State

The Nation's Capital

The Mountain State

Seattle, the state's largest city

Paddle boats along the Tidal Basin

Arrowhead Bike Farm

Highlights: Washington state is in the Pacific Northwest of the country, where Seattle crowns the state and regular cruises head to Alaska. It is a city where art and nature meet and foodies' fantasies come true.

Highlights: 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.

Highlights: There’s more hidden in the hills of West Virginia than you could ever imagine. Scenic beauty is complemented by authentic small-town charm, friendly folks, wild adventures and vibrant Appalachian culture and cuisine.

State Secret: Washington state has nearly 900 wineries offering tasting experiences as well as three National Parks – Mt Rainier, Olympic and North Cascades. The state is the perfect blend of unspoilt nature and urban sophistication.

State Secret: Just minutes from the iconic Seneca Rocks, the Via Ferrata at NROCKS – one of only a few in the USA – is a oneof-a-kind climb up multiple rock faces, suitable for both beginners and experts.

Destination DC • 020 8339 6048 • Washington DC is a federal district and the capital city of the United States • International gateways: Washington Dulles, Baltimore Washington

Wild, Wonderful West Virginia • +1 800 225 5982 • Capital: Charleston • Int'l gateway: Washington Dulles • Regional gateways: Huntington, Parkersburg

experiencewa.com

washington.org

GoToWV.com

wisConsin

Wyoming

America’s Dairyland

The Cowboy State

Port of Seattle • 01923 839 375 • Capital: Olympia • International gateways: Seattle, Vancouver, Portland • Regional gateways: Spokane, Olympia

Sea kayaking at the Apostle Islands

Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park

Highlights: Wisconsin is bordered by Lakes Michigan and Superior to the east and north, and the Mississippi River to the west. From outdoor adventure to fine dining and spas, it offers fun in every form.

Highlights: Discover the American West; the natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park and majestic snow-capped peaks; enjoy the thrill of a rodeo; get stuck in on a ranch and spot wildlife along the way.

Visit USA Association (UK) brings together experts from the widest range of states and destinations, travel, accommodation, entertainment and other U.S. travel-related products and services.

Wisconsin Department of Tourism • 08456 020 574 • Capital: Madison • International gateways: Chicago, Minneapolis • Regional gateways: Milwaukee, Green Bay, Madison

Wyoming Office of Tourism • 01825 763 636 • Capital: Cheyenne • International gateways: Denver, Minneapolis St Paul, Salt Lake City • Regional gateways: Jackson Hole, Cody

The Visit USA website contains plenty of inspirational ideas, expert advice and great offers to help you plan your next USA holiday.

TravelWisconsin.com

travelwyoming.com

State Secret: Visit Wisconsin’s Great Lakes islands at the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and Door County’s Washington Island. The Wisconsin Dells is the Waterpark Capital of the World.

56

State Secret: The restaurant scene in Washington, DC is booming. There have been over 200 openings in the last three years. Go beyond the world-famous attractions and you'll find some wonderful hidden gems.

State Secret: Celebrate the old west in July during Cheyenne Frontier Days. This Western event includes the world's largest outdoor rodeo, a chuck wagon cook-off, an air show and top-name entertainment.

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.

visitusa.org.uk

TRAVEL TOOLKIT Helpful hints and tips

Be prepared!

Essential info that’s good to know before you go

Insurance

Power

Drivers

Tipping

Medical expenses are high in the U.S. so travel insurance with medical cover of at least £2million is recommended

The U.S. uses two-pin plugs so adaptors are required. Electrical goods from the US may not work correctly in the UK

A full UK driver’s licence is required to hire a car in the US. 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

VISITOR REQUIREMENTS

1

Have you travelled to the USA 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. Go to box 2.

• 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?

5

Apply for an ESTA quickly and easily at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta For more information about entry into the US, visit uk.usembassy.gov

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?

VISITUSA.ORG.UK visitusa.org.uk

57

Travel toolkit

Accommodation

BOOK IT NOW Create the perfect USA itinerary – contact our Visit USA (UK) members

58 Accommodation

60 Rail

59 Airlines

60 Ranch Holidays

59 Air Sightseeing & Domestic Airlines

60 Sightseeing

59 Attraction & Theatre Tickets

60 Shopping

59 Campers, Motorhomes & Motorcycle Rental

61 Theme Parks & Attractions

60 Cruise Companies

61 Tour Operators

60 Events

62 Tourism Offices & Regional Associations

60 Ground Transportation (Including Car Hire)

65 Travel Associations

60 Marketing & PR

65 Travel Publications & Training

ACCOMMODATION

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 Fairmont Hotels & Resorts fairmont.com t: 020 7520 4247 t: 0845 071 0153 e: londonglobalsales@frhi.com Fairmont Hotels & Resorts  @FairmontHotels

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Handlery Union Square Hotel handlery.com t: 001 415 781 7800 e: slondon@handlery.com HandlerySF  @HandlerySF

Loews Hotels loewshotels.com t: 01825 763636 e: della.tully@kbc-pr.com LoewsHotels  @loews_hotels

Hilton Worldwide hilton.com t: 020 7856 8235 e: leisuresales.uk@hilton.com HiltonWorldwide  @HiltonWorldwide

Manta Ray Inn mantarayinn.com t: 001 800 255 0595 e: info@mantarayinn.com

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts hyatt.com t: 020 7796 9170 t: 0845 888 1234 e: Julie.york@hyatt.com  @HyattTweets  @HyattSalesForce InterContinental Hotels & Resorts ihg.com t: 01895 551 2000 e: emeatourandtravel@ihg.com  @ihg Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants kimptonhotels.com t: 020 8747 2170 e: kimpton@mccluskey.co.uk Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants  @Kimpton

Marriott International marriott.com t: 0800 221 222 e: frank.mason@marriott.com Marriott International  @marriott New Orleans Plantation Parade plantationparade.com e: contactus@oakalleyplantation.com e: info@lauraplantation.com e: kk@houmashouse.com e: SanFran@RtcOnline.com North American Vacation Homes usahomes.co.uk t: 01444 450034 e: navh@usahomes.co.uk

Relais & Chateaux relaischateaux.com t: 020 7610 1750 e: j.beales@relaischateaux.com Small Luxury Hotels of the World slh.com t: 020 7802 3400 e: contact@slh.com Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. starwoodhotels.com t: 020 7290 7168 e: mary.murphy@starwoodhotels.com staySKY Hotels & Resorts staySKY.com t: 001 407 992 0430 e: reservations@staySKY.com StaySkyHotels.Resorts

Travel toolkit

Airlines • Air Sightseeing & Domestic Airlines • Attraction & Theatre Tickets • Campers, Motorhomes & Motorcycle Rental

Air Europa aireuropa.com t: 0871 423 0717 e: uksales@air-europa.com

Norwegian Airlines norwegian.com t: 020 3874 6000 e: UKISalesleads@norwegian.com Norwegian  @NorwegianUK

Aer Lingus aerlingus.com t: 020 8234 4336 e: keith.tenn@aerlingus.com Aer Lingus  @AerLingus

United Airlines

united.com t: 020 8276 6900 e: lesley.roberts@united.com UnitedUKIE  @united

Air New Zealand airnewzealand.com t: 020 8600 7630 e: airnzuksales@airnz.co.nz

Virgin Atlantic virginatlantic.com vsflyinghub.com (Trade) t: 0344 209 7777 virginatlantic  @VirginAtlantic

AIRLINES

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 Hawaiian Airlines hawaiianairlines.com t: 020 7644 8848 e: res.HA@aviacircle.com HawaiianAirlines  @HawaiianAir Icelandair icelandair.co.uk t: 020 7874 1000 e: (consumer): london@icelandair.is e: (trade): uksales@icelandair.is Icelandair  @icelandair

MANTA RAY INN

AIR SIGHTSEEING & DOMESTIC AIRLINES

Alaska Airlines alaskaairlines.co.uk t: 01992 441517 e: sales@alaskaairlines.co.uk Alaska Airlines  @AlaskaAir 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

Elvis Presley Enterprises Inc. Graceland.com t: 001 901 332 3322 e: Reservations@Graceland.com Elvis Presley’s Graceland  @VisitGraceland Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters Choose from a variety of Helicopter Tours, Airplane Tours, and Champagne Picnic tours where you’ll fly, descend, land, walk the Canyon floor and even cruise the mighty Colorado! papillon.com t: 01923 283838 t: 0808 189 0325 (UK line) m: 07813 777373 e: Michael.wareham@papillon.com papillon  @iflyPapillon Sundance Helicopters – Las Vegas sundancehelicopters.com t: 001 800 653 1881 e: eric@sundancehelicopters.com ATTRACTION & THEATRE TICKETS

Broadway Inbound broadwaycollection.com t: 020 7831 8105 e: john@made.travel TheBroadwayCollection  @BwayCollection

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

CAMPERS, MOTORHOMES & MOTORCYCLE RENTAL

Apollo Motorhome Holidays 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 EagleRider eaglerider.com t: 001 310 536 6777 e: rent@eaglerider.com EagleRider  @EagleRider El Monte RV elmonterv.co.uk t: 01483 500003 e: res@elmonterv.co.uk

Travel toolkit

Campers, Motorhomes & Motorcycle Rental • Cruise Companies • Events • Ground Transportation Incl. Car Hire • Marketing & PR • Rail • Ranch Holidays • Sightseeing • Shopping

GROUND TRANSPORTATION (INCLuding CAR HIRE)

kevinstreit & a s s o c i a t e s global representation

LLC

The Motorhome Xperts themotorhomeXperts.com cruiseamerica.co.uk 35 years of selling motorhomes in America mean we are REAL EXPERTS. We create personal itineraries, suggest things you will enjoy. Call or email today. t: 01304 898159 t: 0844 910 3271 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 CRUISE COMPANIES

American Queen Steamboat Company lightbluetravel.co.uk t: 01223 568904 e: sales@aqgsa.com 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

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A2B Transfers a2btransfers.com t: 01483 804806 e: sales@a2btransfers.com a2bagents

Alamo Rent A Car With over 40 years' experience, 280 locations across the USA and fully-inclusive packages, Alamo is the ideal car hire choice for your holiday. Just relax & drive happy! alamo.co.uk t: 0800 028 2390

Kevin Streit and Associates, LLC KSA is a hybrid marketing company specialising in the tourism, hospitality, and transportation industries. Ask about our innovative marketing concept and about our current roster of clients! consultksa.com t: 001 702 990 3684 UK Skype +44-20-3239-9878 e: kstreit@consultksa.com  @kevstreitoursal Marketing Distribution Services Group mdsg.eu t: 020 3290 8914 e: info@mdsideas.com mdsgeurope  MDS_ltd WixHill wixhill.co.uk t: 01483 203 992 e: caroline@wixhill.co.uk  @wixhill RAIL

Avis Budget Group There is no better way to see the USA than by car, home to some of the most iconic drives on the planet, we have the car for you. avisbudgetgroup.com e: leisuresales@avis-europe.com AvisRentACarUK BudgetCarHireUK  @AvisUK  @BudgetUK

MARKETING & PR

Amtrak Vacations amtrakvacations.co.uk t: 020 3327 3500 e: Requests.uk@ylginc.com AmtrakVacations  @AmtrakVacations

Harlem Spirituals/ New York Visions harlemspirituals.com t: 001 212 391 0900 e: info@harlemspirituals.com harlemspirituals  @HSNYV_Tours 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 SF Adventure Tours adventureinsf.com t: 001 415 323 6180 e: eric@adventureinsf.com SHOPPING

Fashion Island/ Irvine Spectrum Center shopfashionisland.com shopirvinespectrumcenter.com t: 001 480 588 5507 e: kathy@retailtourism.com Macerich Malls macerichtourism.com t: 020 7593 1781 e: solat@hillsbalfour.com MacerichCo  @Macerich

RANCH HOLIDAYS

American Round-Up americanroundup.com t: 01798 865 946 e: nigel@americanroundup.com SIGHTSEEING

Advantage Management Group amgrepresentation.com t: 020 8487 9881 e: info@amgltd.biz Advantage Management-Group  @amgltd

Blue & Gold Fleet blueandgoldfleet.com t: 001 415 705 8200 e: info@blueandgoldfleet.com blueandgoldfleet  @BGFleet

HAT Tourism Marketing hatmarketing.com t: 020 3044 2761 e: kevin@hatmarketing.com HATtourismmarketing  @hatmarketing

Grand Canyon Tour & Travel grandcanyontourandtravel.com t: 001 702 361 7628 e: inquiries@gctco.com Grand Canyon Tour and Travel  @GCTourTravel

New England Development NE Development’s premier shopping destinations include CambridgeSide, MA; Asheville Outlets, NC; Outlets of Little Rock, AR; & Palm Beach Outlets, FL. NEDtours.com t: 001 617 965 8700 e: tours@NEDevelopment.com

Travel toolkit

Shopping • Theme Parks & Attractions • Tour Operators

River Oaks District Houston Over 65 designer shops and restaurants set amidst beautifully landscaped streets. Dior, Hermes, Tom Ford, Dolce & Gabanna, Cartier & more. Tax Free. riveroaksdistrict.com t: 001 713 904 1310 e: kathy@retailtourism.com ROdistrict  @RODistrict Shop America Alliance shopamericatours.com t: 001 707 224 3795 e: ShopAmericaTours@aol.com Simon Shopping Destinations SIMON® Malls | The Mills® Premium Outlets® SIMON.com/travel PR enquiries: t: 01483 203992 e: caroline@wixhill.co.uk Travel industry enquiries: t: 020 3189 1240 e: ehischer@eh-marketing.com Tanger Outlets tangeroutlets.com t: 001 336 834 6831 e: anna.pantazakos@ tangeroutlets.com

The Shops Buckhead Atlanta Over 65 designer shops and restaurants set amidst beautifully landscaped streets.

Dior, Hermes, Tom Ford, Jimmy Choo, Brunello Cucinelli & more. theshopsbuckheadatlanta.com t: 001 404 939 9290 e: kathy@retailtourism.com TheShopsBuckheadAtlanta  @BuckheadAtlStyle

THEME PARKS & ATTRACTIONS

Disney Destinations International disneyworld.co.uk disneytravelagents.co.uk Walt Disney World  @WaltDisneyWorld Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex 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 785 685 (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 TOUR OPERATORS

1st Class Holidays 1stclassholidays.com t: 0161 888 5607 e: usa@1stclassholidays.com 1st Class Holidays  @1stclasshols

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 Adventure Travel West CharterTravel at-west.com  @chartertravel t: 001 303 697 6688 e: info@at-west.com Collette gocollette.com America As You Like It t: 0800 804 8701 americaasyoulikeit.com e: uksales@gocollette.com t: 020 8742 8299 gocolletteuk e: sales@americaasyoulikeit.com  @ColletteTours americaasyoulikeit Complete North America  @TravelAsULikeIt completenorthamerica.com American Sky t: 0115 961 0590 americansky.co.uk e: Enquiry@ t: 01342 889 529 CompleteNorthAmerica.com e: info@americansky.co.uk completenorthamerica AmericanSkyHolidays  @Complete_N_A  @AmericanSkyUK DETOURS of Arizona and Nevada detoursaz.com AmericanTours International (ATI) detoursnv.com americantours.com detoursplatinum.com t: 001 310 641 9953 t: 001 480 633 9013 (USA) t: 001 866 438 6877 (USA) e: sales@americantours.com t: 07766 707978 (UK) AmeriCan & Worldwide Travel e: aclucero@detoursaz.com awwt.co.uk t: 01892 779900 Discover North America e: info@awwt.co.uk discovernorthamerica.co.uk AWWT t: 020 7993 6584 e: info@discover  @Americanwwtvl northamerica.co.uk Audley Travel DiscoverNorthAmerica1 audleytravel.com

t: 01993 838 755 e: usa@audleytravel.com audleytravel  @audleytravel

61

Travel toolkit

Flight Centre Travel Group flightcentre.co.uk t: 07795 222116 e: Becca.young@flightcentre.co.uk FlightCentreUK  @FlightCentre_UK Frontier America frontier-america.co.uk t: 020 8776 8709 North America Travel Service e: america@frontier-travel.co.uk Established in 1971, award Frontier Travel winning North America Travel Service offers the finest  @Frontierworld destinations and luxury resorts Grand American Adventures throughout the entire USA & Grandamericanadventures.co.uk Canada. t: 0333 222 3084 northamericatravelservice.co.uk e: info@grandamerican t: 0333 323 9099 adventures.co.uk e: sales.enquiries@nats-uk.com GrandAmericanAdventures North America Travel Service  @GrandAmericanAd  @northamericatvl

Tour Operators • Tourism Offices

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 By Rail vacationsbyrail.com t: 0800 051 8939 e: info@vacationsbyrail.com vacationsbyrail  @vacationsbyrail

Scottsdale Convention & Visitors Bureau experiencescottsdale.com t: 001 480 421 1004 e: skearney@scottsdalecvb.com Experience Scottsdale  @ScottsdaleAZ 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 Vacations To America  @visitphoenix vacationstoamerica.com t: 01582 469777 Hayes and Jarvis Visit Tucson e: enq@vacationstoamerica.com hayesandjarvis.co.uk Premier Holidays visittucson.org Vacations to America t: 01293 738522 premierholidays.co.uk t: 001 520 770 2147 HayesAndJarvis t: 08444 937 666 e: jludwig@visittucson.org  @Vacs_to_America visittucson e: america@premierholidays.co.uk  @hayesandjarvis Virgin Holidays  @visittucsonaz Virginholidays.co.uk Insight Vacations Purely America insightvacations.com Virginholidays.co.uk/stores ARKANSAS purelytravelgroup.co.uk t: 0800 533 5620 t: 0344 557 4321 Arkansas Department of Parks t: 0844 80 444 80 e: reservations@ virginholidays & Tourism e: reservations@purelyamerica.co.uk insightvacations.co.uk arkansas.com  @virginholidays InsightVacations t: 001 501 682 1075 Titan Travel e: Darrell.brown@arkansas.gov titantravel.co.uk  @insightvacation TOURISM OFFICES ArkansasStateTourism t: 0800 988 5800 Jetsave ALABAMA e: sales@titantravel.co.uk  artourism jetsave.com titantraveluk Alabama Tourism Department t: 0844 415 9880 alabama.travel CALIFORNIA  @titantraveluk t: 020 8339 6122 Visit California UK & Ireland Just You Trailfinders e: andy@globaltravelmarketing.org visitcalifornia.co.uk justyou.co.uk trailfinders.com AlabamaTravel t: 020 7257 6180 t: 01858 415492 t: 020 7368 1200 e: info@visitcalifornia.co.uk e: sales@justyou.com (Tailormade Travel Worldwide) Greater Birmingham Convention VisitCaliforniaUK singletravellers t: 020 7368 1400 and Visitors Bureau  @VisitCA (First & Business Class Travel) inbirmingham.com Kuoni Travel t: 020 7368 1300 (Cruise) Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority t: 020 8339 6122 kuoni.co.uk e: andy@globaltravelmarketing.org tahoesouth.com t: 01306 747000 Travelbag GBCVB t: 020 7845 6394 e: holidays@kuoni.co.uk travelbag.co.uk  @INbirmingham e: info@tahoesouth.com t: 0871 402 1526 (standard) Visit Lake Tahoe South NAR (UK) LTD t: 0871 4021460 (cruise) ARIZONA  @tahoesouth travelhouseofamerica.com e: sales@travelbag.co.uk Arizona Office of Tourism (UK) visitarizona.com t: 01344 890400 Travelbag Los Angeles Tourism & e: paul@travelhouseofamerica.com t: 020 7593 1718 Convention Board  @travelbag1979 e: CharlotteF@hillsbalfour.com discoverLosAngeles.com Newmarket Holidays Travelplanners t: 020 7318 9555  @ArizonaTourism newmarketholidays.co.uk travelplanners.co.uk e: information@latourism.org t: 020 3542 8888 t: 0330 160 7700 @losangelesfan e: contactus@ e: sales@travelplanners.co.uk  @discover_LA newmarketholidays.co.uk  @travelplanneruk NewmarketHolidays  @NewmarketHols

62

Travel toolkit

Tourism Offices

Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism VisitPalmSprings.com t: 0845 498 9980 e: palmsprings@ humewhitehead.co.uk VisitPalmSprings  @PalmSpringsCA Santa Monica Travel & Tourism SantaMonica.com e: Jennifer@blackdiamond.co.uk t: 020 7845 6350 VisitSantaMonica  @GoSantaMonica Visit West Hollywood visitwesthollywood.com t: 001 310 289 2525 e: dubois@visithollywood.com westhollywood  @westhollywood COLORADO Colorado Tourism Office colorado.com t: 020 7240 4071 e: info@visitcolorado.co.uk ColoradoUKIreland ColoradoUKTrade  @coloradoukireland 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 Durango Tourism Office durango.org t: 001 970 247 3500 t: 001 800 525 8855 e: andrea@durango.org

CONNECTICUT See Discover New England (pg 65) FLORIDA Visit Florida® visitflorida.com/uk t: 020 7932 2406 e: visitfloridauk@visitflorida.org t: 01737 644 882 (trade) VisitFloridaUKandIreland  @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: 001 863 551 4750 e: kris@visitcentralflorida.org Daytona Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau - UK & Ireland daytonabeach.com t: 020 3044 2761 e: kevin@hatmarketing.com 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

Visit Tampa Bay VisitTampaBay.com t: 07557 256 973 e: jando@thegoldenquill.org VisitTampaBay  @visittampabay

Greater Miami CVB miamiandbeaches.com t: 020 8877 4514 e: sebastian@firstpr.co.uk visitmiami  @MiamiandBeaches

GEORGIA Georgia Department of Tourism exploregeorgia.org t: 01825 763636 e: dtully@georgia.org Explore Georgia  @ExploreGeorgia

Naples, Marco Island, Everglades – Florida's Paradise Coast paradisecoast.co.uk t: 01732 875 722 e: oonagh@ommac.co.uk Paradise Coast UK  @paradisecoastuk New Smyrna Beach Area Visitors Bureau NSBFLA.com t: 07834 918264 e: philip@ignite-uk.com Visit New Smyrna Beach  @Newsmyrnabeach1

HAWAI‘I Hawai‘i Tourism Europe gohawaii.com/uk t: 020 7593 1775 e: hawaii@hillsbalfour.com goHawaiiUK IDAHO Idaho Tourism visitidaho.org t: 020 7644 6108 e: nfalchi@aviareps.com Visit-Idaho-UK  @AVIAREPSUK

Visit Orlando visitorlando.com t: 020 3757 6819 e: orlando.tourism@publicasity.co.uk visitorlando  @VisitOrlando

KANSAS Kansas Dept. Wildlife, Parks & Tourism travelksok.co.uk t: 01292 313969 t: 07796 376030 e: matt@travelksok.co.uk Visit Panama City Beach Kansas and Oklahoma visitpanamacitybeach.com  @TravelKSOK_UK t: 020 7871 2915 e: info@goshpr.co.uk KENTUCKY Kentucky Department of Travel visitpanamacitybeach and Tourism  @Visit_PCB kentuckytourism.com Visit Sarasota County t: 01462 440766 visitsarasota.org e: kentucky@deep-south-usa.com t: 020 7871 2915 e: info@goshpr.co.uk LOUISIANA VisitSarasota Louisiana Office of Tourism louisianatravel.com  @VisitSarasota t: 020 8460 7082 Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater e: louisiana@ttmworld.co.uk VisitStPeteClearwater.com Louisiana Travel t: 020 8339 6121  @LouisianaTravel e: gemma@visitspc.com visitstpeteclearwater  @VSPC

Explore the US with ease with an Avis car rental.

With rental locations in most US cities and airports Avis makes it easy for you to enjoy your American adventure. www.avis.co.uk Avis House, Park Road, Bracknell, Berks RG12 2EW

63

Travel toolkit

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: carolann.ouellette@maine.gov Visit Maine  @VisitMaine MARYLAND See Washington, DC and the Capital Region (pg 65) 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 t: info@cellet.co.uk bloomingtonminnesota MISSISSIPPI Mississippi Office of Tourism deep-south-usa.com/Mississippi visitmississippi.org t: 01462 440 787 e: Mississippi@deep-south-usa.com visitmississippi.org  @visitms MISSOURI Missouri Division of Tourism Visitmo.com t: 01295 722816 e: info@cellet.co.uk

64

Tourism Offices

Explore St. Louis Explorestlouis.com t: 001 314 992 0643 e: reichelberger@explorestlouis.com MONTANA See Rocky Mountain International (pg 65) 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: g.p.evans@btinternet.com AtlanticCityNJ  @VisitAC NEW YORK New York State Division of Tourism iloveny.com t: 020 3697 4301 e: martin.court@nystourism.com 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: 001 315 724 7221 e: kelly@oneidacountytourism.com CNYTravel  VisitCNY

Hudson Valley / Dutchess Tourism dutchesstourism.com t: 001 845 463 4000 e: dawn@dutchesstourism.com DutchessTourism  @DutchessTourism

Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau DiscoverPHL.com t: 01633 481710 e: g.p.evans@btinternet.com discoverPHL  @discoverPHL

Wine, Water & Wonders Upstate New York winewaterwonders.com t: 001 585 279 8318 e: gregm@visitrochester.com

PUERTO RICO Puerto Rico Tourism Company seepuertorico.com t: 020 7593 1782 e: puertorico@hillsbalfour.com SeePuertoRico  @PRTourismCo

NORTH CAROLINA North Carolina Division of Tourism uk.visitnc.com t: 020 8460 3582 e: northcarolina@ttmworld.co.uk Visit North Carolina  @VisitNC NORTH DAKOTA See Rocky Mountain International (pg 65) OKLAHOMA Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation travelksok.co.uk t: 01292 313969 t: 07796 376030 e: matt@travelksok.co.uk Kansas and Oklahoma  @TravelKSOK_UK OREGON Travel Oregon traveloregon.com t: 01326 250213 e: oregon.uk@btinternet.com TravelOregon  @Traveloregon_uk Travel Portland travelportland.com t: 001 503 275 8355 e: visitorinfo@travelportland.com travelportland  @travelportland PENNSYLVANIA Pennsylvania Tourism Office visitpa.com t: 01633 481710 e: g.p.evans@btinternet.com visitPA  @visitPA

RHODE ISLAND See Discover New England (pg 65) 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 Charleston Area Convention and Visitors Bureau charlestoncvb.com t: 07767 660776 e: ihigh@explorecharleston.com Charleston Area Convention and Visitors Bureau  @explorechs SOUTH DAKOTA See Rocky Mountain International (pg 65) 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 Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau austintexas.org e: tourism@austintexas.org Visit Austin Texas  @VisitAustinTX

Travel toolkit

Tourism Offices • Tourism Offices (Regional Associations) • Travel Associations • Travel Publications & Training

Visit Dallas visitdallas.com t: 001 214 571 1097 e: mark@visitdallas.com Visit Dallas  @visit_dallas Fort Worth Convention & Visitors Bureau FortWorth.com t: 001 817 698.7842 e: JessicaChristopherson@ FortWorth.com Visit Fort Worth  @VisitFortWorth

VIRGINIA See Washington, DC and the Capital Region (pg 65) WASHINGTON Washington State Tourism Seattle-WashingtonStateUK.co.uk t: 01923 839 375 e: Seattle@corecommunications.co.uk SeattleWashingtonStateUK  @Seattle_WAUK WASHINGTON D.C. See Washington, DC and the Capital Region (pg 65)

Visit Houston WYOMING VisitHoustonTexas.com See Rocky Mountain International (pg 65) t: 0049 174 32 666 36 e: anja@apconsulting-houston.com Visit Houston Texas TOURISM OFFICES  @VisitHoustonTX (REGIONAL ASSOCIATIONS)

San Antonio Convention & Visitors Bureau visitsanantonio.com t: 001 210 207 6865 e: diannesassenhagen@ visitsanantonio.com Visit San Antonio  @VisitSanAntonio UTAH Utah Office of Tourism visitutah.com/uk t: 01825 763636 e: jenni.bridgman@kbc-pr.com Visit Utah UK  @VisitUtahUK VERMONT Vermont Dept of Tourism Marketing vermontvacation.co.uk t: 0800 345 7322 e: vermont@wixhill.co.uk Vermont Tourism  @VermontTourism

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

Rocky Mountain International realamerica.co.uk t: 01825 763636 e: jenni.bridgman@kbc-pr.com The Real America UK  @RMI_RealAmerica

Online Travel Training Onlinetraveltraining.com t: 020 7812 3800 e: info@ott.travel onlinetraveltraining  @traveltraining

Washington, DC & Capital Region USA capitalregionusa.org t: 020 8339 6048 e: tmp.uk@btinternet.com Capital Region USA

Phoenix International Publishing essentiallyamerica.com t: 01403 276091 e: simontodd@phoenixip.com Essentially America  @EssentiallyA

TRAVEL ASSOCIATIONS

Brand USA VisitTheUSA.co.uk USADiscoveryProgram.co.uk e: info@thebrandusa.co.uk VisitTheUSAuk BrandUSAUKtrade  @VisitTheUSAuk  @USATravelTrade International Inbound Travel Association internationalinbound travelassociation.org t: 001 859 219 3545 e: headquarters@inboundtravel.org IITATravel  @IITA_Travel National Tour Association (NTA) NTAonline.com t: 001 859 264 6540 e: headquarters@ntastaff.com NTAnow  @NTAnews

Visit USA Association (UK) Ltd visitusa.org.uk t: 020 7593 1769 e: info@visitusa.org.uk Discover New England  @VisitUSA_UK discovernewengland.co.uk t: 01825 746688 TRAVEL PUBLICATIONS AIR SIGHTSEEING e: discovernewengland@kbc-pr.com & TRAINING & DOMESTIC AIRLINES DiscoverNewEngland @newenglandvisit  ABTA Magazine abtamagazine.co.uk t: 020 7253 9909 e: matthew@abtamagazine.co.uk

AND GO BECAUSE...

A USA ADVENTURE AWAITS

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 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

START YOUR ROAD TRIP FROM ONE OF

OUR MANY USA LOCATIONS

Travel toolkit

66

il ra y it iv B Act & B ys da li g o H s in i s ch u n Cr rt o Ra sp t r es te ter in es w l In m ia h o s ec or nt e Sp ot M rtm urs pa To A e h iv ac -Dr t Co y Fl sor Re de d n Ma a A r ty o US l i l Ci Ta ra e en G

TOUR OPERATORS 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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AmeriCan & Worldwide Travel

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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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Collette

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Complete North America

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DETOURS of Arizona & Nevada

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Grand American Adventures

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Hayes and Jarvis

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Insight Vacations

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Jetsave

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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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Travelbag

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Travelplanners

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Travelsphere

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TrekAmerica

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Vacations By Rail

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Vacations to America

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Virgin Holidays

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Worldwide Motorhoming Holidays

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PANAMA CITY BEACH

FL

elves from having At Panama City Beach we just can’t help ours know you’ll have fun a blast, no matter what we’re doing. And we e to PCB and see why playing on our miles of beautiful beach. Com way today! we’re the REAL. FUN. BEACH. Plan your geta

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