The US has never been an easier to sell, thanks to the great exchange rate of two dollars to the pound, and visitors will find this buoyancy reflected at World Travel Market.
Here are the US exhibitors to look out for at WTM 2007.
- Related feature:Introduction to World Travel Market 2007
Florida (NA3000)
It makes sense to start in Florida given the state’s ongoing popularity with Brits. As always, Florida hosts one of the show’s biggest stands, and many of the exhibitors have teamed up to create a tailor-made break that’s up for grabs in a prize draw.
While you’re there, don’t miss the representatives from the Florida Keys and Key West, who will be launching their new training programme, the four-module Conch Key Academy.
New York (NA4000)
Shoppers’ paradise New York exhibits jointly with New York State this year. They’ll be telling visitors about hotel openings, the new NYC training programme launching this month and attractions including the Highline Elevated Park.
The city and state will host drinks on their stand from 4pm on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Colorado and Utah (NA4280)
Training is in vogue in Colorado too. The Let’s Talk Colorado online scheme launches later this year and the state has pledged to train 500 agents in 2008.
Sharing the stand is neighbour Utah, where there will be a definite cowboy theme. In 2008 it will be 100 years since the death of its most infamous son, the outlaw Butch Cassidy, and the state will kick off two years of Wild West fun.
Las Vegas and Nevada (NA3200)
Similarly wild is gambling capital Las Vegas, which exhibits jointly with Nevada.
As well as finding out more about Nevada’s reinvention, look out for a representative from the Native American Hualapai tribe. It is behind the Grand Canyon’s latest draw, the Skywalk, a glass walkway suspended more than 4,000ft above the canyon’s floor and stretching 70ft from its rim.
Arizona (NA3300)
It could be about time to pick up some giveaways, so head over to Arizona, where the office of tourism is handing out guides, DVDs, pens, notebooks and travel planners.
North Carolina (NA2000)
North Carolina is in a celebratory mood after seeing Ocracoke beach crowned the world’s best place to chill by Dr Stephen Leatherman, also known as Dr Beach. To mark the achievement, visitors can win an exclusive signed Dr Beach goodie bag.
- Related feature:Chris Coplans meets Dr Beach
Capital Region USA (NA2000)
Capital Region USA, which represents Maryland, Virginia and Washington DC, is in a generous mood. Drop by and sign up for its training programme and you could win two free flights to Washington DC.
While you’re there, pick up a copy of the region’s first-ever Byways Travel Pack – aimed at flydrive clients who want to get off the beaten track.
Texas (NA1120)
Texas is focusing on niche markets such as golf, wildlife and wine. Find out more over margaritas on the stand from 4pm on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
Hawaii (NA2355)
Be quick and you’ll have time for cocktails with Hawaii, from 4pm on Tuesday, as it pushes the redevelopment of Waikiki Beach and new intra-island ferry services.
