Australian travel advisors explored the food and drink experiences of the United States at Brand USA’s America the Bountiful trade event in Melbourne.
Held at Le Bon Ton, the event brought together frontline advisors, seven U.S. destination partners and Qantas to highlight the role of culinary travel in shaping itineraries and inspiring Australian visitors.
Participating destinations included Visit Anaheim, Travel Portland, Travel Oregon, Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, Travel South, Greater Palm Springs and New Orleans & Company, while Qantas provided an update on air connectivity to the United States.
Brand USA ambassadors Cara Buhagiar, Abby Pezze, Jessica O’Grady and Brittany Mason also shared personal culinary highlights from their travels across the country.
Tristan Freedman, Brand USA Australia and New Zealand Trade Director, said culinary experiences could help travellers connect more closely with a destination.
“Culinary experiences offer a meaningful way to connect travellers with the culture, people and stories of a destination,” Mr Freedman said.
The event also marked the launch of Brand USA’s new America the Bountiful agent resource, designed to help travel advisors discover and share food and drink experiences across the United States.
