The fourth Sell your way to the USA with American Airlines famil trip has returned from a super-successful outing to Grapevine, Texas and Oklahoma for four lucky Aussie and Kiwi winners.
Thanks to Canuckiwi, American Airlines, Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau, Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation and travel partners, the Sell your way to the USA eight-day famil was packed with festive moments.
The four advisors – Kim Mildon (Travel Managers), Len Vigne (Flight Centre), Cathy Crawford (Bucket List Travel) and Jade Austin (Orbit Christchurch) – flew American Airlines Premium Economy to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport to kick-start their itinerary.
Hosted by American Airlines’ Jeff Gnade, Grapevine, Texas was the start and end of the trip and the host city of Dallas/Fort Worth.
Doing the Grapevine
Arriving on 1 December, the fam began with a walking tour of the historic main street followed by wine tasting at Bingham Family Vineyards and Cross Timbers Winery, craft brew tasting at Hop & Sting Brewing Company and live entertainment at the Holly Jolly Bar.
Other season’s greetings included a Victorian Christmas tour at Historic Nash Farm. The festive charm continued at North Pole Express Neighborhood, Grapevine Parade of Lights and the ‘No Home for the Holidays’ Texas Star Dinner Theater.
The advisors also experienced the Grapevine Vintage Railroad – North Pole Express.
Yee-haw, Oklahoma!
Next up was Oklahoma where agents delved into the state’s signature experiences of Native history, cowboy culture and American charm.
They toured Chisholm Trail Heritage Center, saw a live auction at Oklahoma National Stockyards and visited insightful museums, including the First Americans Museum, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and Chickasaw Cultural Center.
Festive fun and food featured Cattleman’s Steakhouse, Beer City Music Hall, dinner at Broadway 10, downtown Oklahoma City’s festive lights and barbecue at Smokin’ Joes. The agents also enjoyed a photo stop at the 40-foot-tall leg lamp from A Christmas Story.
Highlight hotels included the Gaylord Texan Resort and the National Hotel in Oklahoma City.
Festive famil feedback
Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau Director of Leisure & International Sales Heather Egan said the famil was made even sweeter by the Christmas Capital of Texas’ seasonal cheer.
“We always love sharing Grapevine with our travel trade partners, but it was even sweeter to share during one of our most highlighted times of the year,” she said.
“I believe this fam provided both great memories as well as new friendships for everyone.”
Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Consumer & Trade Marketing Director Todd Stallbaumer agreed: “Oklahoma was so excited to host such a wonderful group of travel professionals. Sharing our rich culture, unique cuisine and memorable people is what we enjoy.”
“We look forward to continued partnerships.”
The final Sell your way to the USA incentive trip for four advisors will take place in Alaska in the next few months.
