The Arizona Office of Tourism (AOT), in partnership with Linkd Tourism, has successfully concluded a 2024 Australian travel trade and media sales mission, showcasing Arizona as a premier destination for Australian travellers.
Travelling throughout Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sydney between 1-7 December the week-long initiative included a series of travel trade, and media events to promote Arizona to this key international market.
The delegation, led by Joanna Tejeda, presented the ‘Vibrant Arizona’ campaign for 2025 across key cities to highlight Arizona’s unique combination of cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, sporting events, and cuisine, positioning the state as a must-visit destination ahead of the Route 66 Centennial in 2026.
Meg Roederer from Discover Flagstaff shared the highlights of Flagstaff and the access to Route 66 (with Arizona having the longest stretch of the route); stargazing and adventure and of course her backyard, The Grand Canyon.
The 5,000 square-metre Discovery Centre opened at Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff just two weeks ago – it has heated outdoor seats at the world’s first rooftop open air planetarium.
Karryon attended a media cooking class at the Sydney Cooking School, which featured a presentation on Arizona’s culinary heritage, highlighting its Native American, Mexican, and Western influences.
Other Arizona Office of Tourism events in the program included a series of trade meetings and a media bathhouse event in Melbourne where guests were treated to a unique relaxation experience at Sense of Self, providing a tranquil atmosphere to discuss Arizona’s wellness tourism offerings.
Melbourne trade and media also gathered for a Pickleball Event. In Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the tourism board hosted a collaborative lunch with Flight Centre Travel Group, a Top Golf event on the Gold Coast, and a media lunch at Comuna Cantina in Brisbane.
Also in Sydney, the group hosted a Trade Basketball Training session followed by a networking breakfast.
“We’ve had an incredible time connecting with Australian travel agents, media, and partners to share everything Arizona has to offer. From the stunning landscapes of Sedona and Monument Valley to our rich Native American heritage and vibrant food scene, there’s truly something for everyone in Arizona,” said Joanna Tejeda, Arizona Office of Tourism.
Looking ahead to 2025, Vibrant Arizona will showcase Arizona’s signature experiences, from exploring the Grand Canyon to attending events like the Arizona Spring Training and the Centennial of Route 66 in 2026.
Australians visiting Arizona can fly via LAX, SFO or DFO. Alternatively clients can take in the sights via road trip with 4.5 hour drive time from LAS or 6 from LAX.
For more information see visitarizona.com
