Yosemite National Park, California
In association with: Brand USA
Hit the open road across the US with some of the best pre-planned routes, plus be in with a chance of winning a £100 voucher
Do your clients like to explore at their own pace? Have they expressed a desire to tick off both city and countryside in one easy route? From the bayous and back roads in the southern states, to the parks and mountain peaks in the country’s northwest, there are endless routes to explore in the US.
Brand USA’s portfolio of road trip itineraries – full of attraction highlights and lesser-known local haunts – are a handy resource to help you plan clients’ trips. There are more than 30 itineraries to choose from, all packed with ideas for how to explore this incredible country. With estimated driving times and mileage, and even recommendations for where to stop along the way, you can rest assured that your clients will really get to explore their chosen destinations.
Routes across the US
Throughout the next few months, we will be profiling a selection of Road Trips USA itineraries to help you inspire your clients. Here are the 10 varied itineraries you can expect to see:
1. Secret Trails – Back Roads, Beaches and Bayous
2. The Civil Rights History Trail
3. Island Discovery Series – Hawaiian Islands
4. Alaska – Mountains, Glaciers and Parks
5. Iconic Cities and Beyond
6. Volcanic Peaks to Sparkling Shores
7. On the Shores of the Great Lakes
8. Giant Trees and Ancient Forests
9. Great North Music Tour
10. Coasts and Mountains of the South
Visit travelweekly.co.uk/hub every other Monday to learn about a new route. Or head to traveltrade.visittheusa.co.uk/USAItineraries to discover the highlights of these road trips and more.
Secret Trails – Back Roads, Beaches and Bayous
This 12-day itinerary takes in some of the most scenic spots across two of the southern states, while making time for its popular cities and their biggest attractions too.
Start in Austin, Texas, known as the ‘live music capital of the world’, and explore the shops along the quirky South Congress Street, before visiting the eclectic Rainey Street, where bars are located inside converted cottages. Head outside the city to see the biodiversity of Texas Hill Country, and spots like Fredericksburg, which showcase the region’s German heritage.
The next stop is Houston, which boasts some eye-catching art murals and galleries, among some beautiful green spaces. And don’t miss the Space Center Houston, to learn all about space travel. On the Gulf Coast lies Galveston Island, where visitors can explore the old pier and enjoy a stroll along the boardwalk on the seafront, before stopping at one of the many restaurants.
Cross into Louisiana and be greeted with its unique bayous and marshes on the way to Lake Charles. Discover the city’s past in the Charpentier Historic District, on a walking tour, or even explore on a mule-drawn carriage ride. Birdwatchers will be in their element in the parks surrounding the city, where they can attempt to spot 400 species of bird, as well as alligators and raptors. And just a little farther south, on the coast, there are some great places to indulge in seafood and Cajun cuisine.
The itinerary ends in New Orleans, a buzzing city full of European charm and heritage. The French Quarter is a good place to start, with some of the most impressive architecture, while Bourbon Street, known for its live music and bars, comes alive at night. There’s delicious food across the city, but Café du Monde’s beignets are a sweet treat that you can’t skip in the Big Easy.
To book this itinerary, call Gold Medal on 0800 014 7777 or visit goldmedal.co.uk
Win a £100 John Lewis voucher
Do you think you know the US inside out, from the beaches to the bayous? Every two weeks, Brand USA is giving agents the chance to win a £100 John Lewis voucher. To enter this time, answer a question about the Secret Trails – Back Roads, Beaches and Bayous itinerary at travelweekly.co.uk/BrandUSA.
GoUSA TV
Be transported to the US from home with the GoUSA TV app, broadcasting exciting shows and destination videos from all over the country. Download for free for iOS and Android devices.
Become a US expert
Expand your knowledge by completing the Texas, Austin and New Orleans badges on Brand USA’s USA Discovery Program. This online agent training programme has more than 60 modules, and can help you sell trips to the US more effectively to your customers. Whether it’s must-visit places, unique experiences, historical facts or dining tips, this resource offers comprehensive overviews of states, cities, and experiences across the country. Take the course at: usadiscoveryprogram.co.uk
PICTURES: Brand USA/Secret Trails Photoshoot
