The Arizona Office of Tourism (AOT), in partnership with Linkd Tourism, has successfully concluded the 2024 Australian Travel Trade and Media Sales Mission, showcasing Arizona as a premier destination for Australian travellers.Held across Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sydney from December 1 to December 7, 2024, this week-long initiative included a series of travel trade, and media events to promote the unique appeal of 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 world-class 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 incredible access to Route 66, Stargazing and adventure and of course her backyard, The Grand Canyon.
Highlights from the Mission
The 2024 Arizona Sales Mission featured an array of engaging events designed to inspire, inform, and connect industry professionals. Key moments included:
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Melbourne: The mission kicked off with a, series of trade meetings and an engaging media event, which introduced Arizona’s dynamic offerings to trade and media attendees.
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Media Bathhouse Event (Dec 2): Media representatives were treated to a unique relaxation experience at Sense of Self, providing a tranquil atmosphere to discuss Arizona’s wellness tourism offerings.
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Trade & Media Pickleball Event (Dec 2): This event blended fun and learning, with participants engaging in friendly Pickleball matches while discovering Arizona’s rich tourism offerings.
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Brisbane/Gold Coast: Events included a collaborative lunch with Flight Centre Group and a media gathering, both aimed at strengthening relationships and sharing tailored travel experiences.
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Media Lunch (Dec 3): Held at Comuna Cantina in Brisbane, this intimate lunch allowed media partners to connect with the Arizona team and hear firsthand about the destination’s highlights and upcoming initiatives.
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Top Golf Event (Dec 3): The lively Top Golf session on the Gold Coast provided valuable networking opportunities with Australia’s leading travel professionals in an informal and relaxed setting.
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Sydney: The mission wrapped up in Sydney with a media cooking class, offering participants a taste of Arizona-inspired flavours, along side a trade event learning the skills of basketball.
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Media Cooking Class (Dec 5): Media representatives joined a hands-on cooking class at Sydney Cooking School, which featured a presentation on Arizona’s culinary heritage, highlighting its Native American, Mexican, and Western influences.
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Trade Basketball Training Event in Sydney (Dec 6): The event included a fun basketball training session followed by a networking breakfast, giving trade representatives a unique and active way to engage with Arizona tourism information.
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“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.
