When the tourism chiefs of Southern California head Down Under, they tend to bring sunshine with them, metaphorically at least. And on the Gold Coast recently, Visit Anaheim did exactly that, hosting a lively gathering of Queensland travel trade partners and media in a day that mixed business with a fair dash of Pacific coast flair.

In the capable hands of Visit Anaheim’s Australian representative, Michael Cassis, and visiting International Tourism Director, Michael Young, the delegation quickly dubbed the “two M&M’s” by those present, rolled out the welcome mat for Brisbane, Gold Coast and Northern New South Wales travel industry insiders.

And in true Gold Coast fashion, the event unfolded not in a conference room but on the water.

Sunshine, Sailboats and a Touch of California

Trade partners were treated to what could only be described as a quintessential Gold Coast experience. The day began with a scenic sailing adventure across the Broadwater, complete with a private chef preparing lunch on board a setting that made the usual PowerPoint presentation feel almost unnecessary.

By late afternoon, the group gathered beachside for cocktails and canapés as the sun dipped below the horizon. The highlight of the evening was Anaheim’s signature cocktail, the Meihana, cleverly named as “Anaheim” spelt backwards, made famous by the city’s James Beard-nominated tiki bar, Strong Water.

If the goal was to remind Australian agents that Anaheim knows how to host a good time, mission accomplished.

A Strong Line-Up of Anaheim Partners

Joining Visit Anaheim on the Australian visit were several well-known Anaheim tourism partners.

Representatives from Disneyland Resort in California, travelling from their Melbourne office, were joined by visiting Anaheim-based operators, including:

• JW Marriott Anaheim Resort

• Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground

• Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

• Karmel Connect, the long-standing Southern California transport provider

Each used the opportunity to share updates on developments across Anaheim and the broader Los Angeles region, a destination that continues to evolve well beyond its famous theme park gates.

Anaheim’s Next Big Chapter: OCVIBE

Among the biggest talking points was the upcoming launch of OCVIBE, Anaheim’s ambitious new entertainment and dining precinct, scheduled to debut its first stage later this year.

Located around the Honda Centre, home of the Anaheim Ducks, the project aims to transform the surrounding district into a vibrant hub of restaurants, entertainment venues and public spaces, adding yet another dimension to the city’s visitor experience.

For Australian travellers already familiar with Disneyland Resort, the message was clear: Anaheim is expanding its appeal far beyond the theme parks.

Bluey Heads to Disneyland

Australian agents were particularly pleased to hear news that Bluey and Bingo, arguably Australia’s most beloved animated exports, will soon arrive at Disneyland Resort in California later this month.

For families travelling from Australia, the presence of the two Blue Heeler sisters at Disneyland adds a welcome dash of homegrown charm to the California adventure.

Hotels Investing for the Future

Accommodation partners also shared updates reflecting continued investment in Anaheim’s tourism infrastructure.

The ever-popular Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground, long a favourite among Australian families, announced renovations set to begin in April. The refurbishment will focus initially on the property’s economy rooms, with plans to introduce larger occupancy options designed specifically for travelling families by 2027.

Meanwhile, the JW Marriott Anaheim Resort showcased its upscale offerings, including its rooftop lounge Parkestry, widely regarded as one of the best sunset vantage points in the city. Guests looking for a moment of calm can also retreat to the hotel’s tranquil JW Garden, a leafy oasis that feels worlds away from the excitement of nearby Disneyland.

Exploring More of Los Angeles

Transportation specialist Karmel Connect, a long-time supporter of the Australian market, revealed new touring options designed to help Anaheim visitors explore further afield.

Working in partnership with Starline Tours, the company has launched LA Day Tours that depart directly from Anaheim hotels, giving visitors an easy way to experience Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and other iconic Los Angeles sights without changing accommodations.

Hollywood Magic Still Draws the Crowds

For those with a love of film and television, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood also brought fresh updates.

New exhibits now feature costumes and props from the Academy Award-nominated film Sinners and last year’s blockbuster Superman, joining long-standing favourites including the original sets from Friends and The Big Bang Theory.

In other words, Hollywood’s magic remains very much alive and only a short drive from Anaheim.

Sport, Events and Global Attention

Looking ahead, Anaheim’s event calendar also promises to keep the city buzzing.

The Anaheim Ducks are currently eyeing a potential playoff run in the NHL, while Major League Baseball fans can look forward to the return of the Los Angeles Angels season in April.

And with nearby Los Angeles set to host eight matches during the FIFA World Cup this June and July, Anaheim is positioning itself as an ideal base for visiting fans seeking larger hotel rooms, family-friendly accommodation and good value.

A Familiar Favourite for Australians

For Australian travellers, Anaheim remains one of the most consistently popular destinations in mainland America.

Michael Cassis believes the city’s continued reinvention is one of its biggest strengths.

“Anaheim has always been one of the most visited US mainland destinations for Australian travellers,” Cassis said.

“But much like Disneyland Resort, which continues to grow and evolve, Anaheim itself is constantly changing, offering more than ever to all traveller types.

“And with so many amazing events coming to Southern California this year, Anaheim offers the perfect base of stay for all Southern California adventures.”

Continuing the Journey Down Under

Following the Gold Coast event, the Visit Anaheim team continued travelling along Australia’s east coast as part of the Visit USA Roadshow, connecting with additional travel trade partners and strengthening relationships in one of the destination’s most important international markets.

For agents keen to stay up to date with Anaheim’s latest developments, Visit Anaheim encourages industry partners to register via the Australian trade portal: https://www.visitanaheim.org/au-resources.

The site also offers a dedicated Australian trade eDM, delivered every two months, featuring news, product updates, and training opportunities.

If the Gold Coast gathering proved anything, it’s that Anaheim knows its audience well.

A little sunshine, a good cocktail and a hint of Disney magic still go a long way.

by Soo James – (c) 2026.

Read Time: 3 minutes.

About the Writer.

There’s nothing rehearsed about Soo James, and that’s precisely the point. Malaysian by heritage, Sydney by schooling, she arrived at UNSW to study Arts, then took a left turn into IT, not out of ambition, but curiosity. Somewhere among systems and schedules, she worked out what really held her attention: people, language, and the quiet spaces between them.

Writing followed naturally. Travel and lifestyle gave her room to observe, to listen, to notice the details others rush past. Soo writes the way good travellers move, watching the room before admiring the view, catching the gesture before chasing the headline.

At Global Travel Media, her stories don’t shout or sell. They linger. They slow you down, open a door, and gently suggest there’s more to see if you’re willing to look.

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