Heather Egan, Director of Leisure and International Group Sales at the Grapevine Convention and Visitors Bureau, is a force in Texas tourism. With over sixteen years at the helm, Heather has revolutionised the perception of Texas as a travel destination. She proudly wears her passion for Texas — often in her signature red boots. We chat to Heather to get the lowdown on what the Aussie travel industry needs to know about Grapevine, Texas.
Get the party started in Grapevine
Heather recommends Grapevine as a gateway, “the starting line to an authentic American experience”.
Non-stop flights with Qantas and American Airlines into Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) offer “a contrast to the usual hustle and bustle associated with the LAX route”, Heather tells Karryon.
“DFW, as fast and efficient its customs and immigration are, greets your clients with open arms, introducing them to the laid-back charm and warmth Texas is famous for.”
Grapevine is located just ten minutes from DFW and offers a seamless transition from long-haul flights to relaxation.
“After a very lengthy flight, the fact that within a half-hour of landing, you can be in your hotel, refreshed, and downstairs enjoying the pool or a glass of Texas wine, makes Grapevine the perfect location to easily get your holiday started.”
To beat jetlag, Heather suggests unwinding for a few days in Grapevine. Explore its charm and attractions, taking advantage of the complimentary transportation. Then, refreshed and ready to go, pick up your rental car and embark on your official adventure.
The grape escape
Grapevine slingshots you from DFW Airport into a world that’s both easy to access and brimming with surprises.
The Historic Main Street District is a must-see, offering a mix of boutique shopping, dining, and wine tasting.
It’s here you might find Heather on a weekend, enjoying brunch at Chez Fabien or another fantastic bistro.
“Every chance I get I try to drop into my favourite boutiques such as Ooh La La, Bermuda Gold or The Palm Tree (I pretty much buy my entire wardrobe from the boutiques along Main Street).”
And true to its name, Grapevine is celebrated for its wineries and tasting rooms, inspired by the region’s native wild grapes. This means you can always expect exceptional wine and delicious food to enhance your experience, says Heather.
“I try to visit a different winery tasting room every weekend. Cross Timbers Winery is a great one on the weekend, as they have live music in the afternoon.
“Dinner can be combined with the live music scene, with a possible spaghetti pizza at Farina’s Winery & Café and live music, or a visit to Harvest Hall, our European-Style Food Hall to take in a performance such as duelling pianos or a local band at Third Rail.”
But it isn’t just about wine and shopping. Heather points out the hometown charm that sets it apart from other destinations. The Grapevine Vintage Railroad and Meow Wolf’s immersive art experience, The Real Unreal, offer unique attractions.
Both TEXRail and the Grapevine Visitor Shuttle connect with DFW Airport, making it easy for travellers to explore even on a long layover. This ease of access is a significant draw, especially for those looking to experience a slice of Texas before heading to other US destinations.
Accommodation for every taste and budget
“We have 20 hotels all within 10 minutes of DFW International Airport, allowing Australians to step off a long-haul direct flight and straight into the heart of Texan hospitality,” Heather says.
“Our hotels range from select service to luxury boutique. We have Marriott, Hilton and Hyatt properties, with all properties being at the top of their brand flags.”
Heather highlights properties like Hotel Vin, a Marriott Autograph Collection hotel in the Historic Main Street District. “It’s walkable to all the shops, bistros, and cafes,” she says.
For families, the Great Wolf Lodge offers an indoor and outdoor waterpark, arcade, and more.
For those seeking luxury, the Gaylord Texan Resort is a top choice. Featuring multiple restaurants, a nightclub, water park, and full-service spa, it showcases the best of Texas hospitality under a glass atrium.
Support for travel agents
With local representation in Australia and New Zealand through Canuckiwi, Grapevine CVB is well-placed to engage with Australian travel agents.
It is also represented at key travel trade events throughout the year including the Visit USA expo series. Plus, Heather attends an annual in-market sales mission offering in-person training and exclusive events.
Grapevine CVB is part of the Sell Your Way to the USA annual agent incentive with American Airlines where agents can win one of 15 coveted spots to the USA. Grapevine’s commitment to famil education ensures that agents can experience the destination firsthand. This approach not only builds strong partnerships but also equips agents with the knowledge to recommend Grapevine confidently.
Grapevine, Texas Resources:
For Australian travel agents, promoting Grapevine is a win-win. Clients can enjoy a relaxing start to their US holiday, explore the best of Texas, and easily access other destinations. With Heather and the Grapevine CVB’s support, agents have all the tools they need to make Grapevine a top choice for their clientele.
Heather will be in-market at the start of August with scheduled visits in Adelaide, the Barossa, the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. She is excited to connect with partners and stakeholders, sharing the latest updates from Grapevine.
