Travel Classics Media News
July/August 2025
Route 66 To Mark 100 Years
With the centennial of Route 66 in 2026, New Mexico is poised for celebration. From restored motels that blend retro charm with modern comforts and revived roadside gems with vintage neon signs to new interactive art installations, New Mexico’s iconic stretch of Route 66 embodies the spirit of the next century while paying homage to the past. Visit
New Mexico True. Media contact: Nicole Barker, 505-469-2739.
A Plethora of New Adventures Awaits in Québec
This summer brings a slew of new experiences for travelers to indulge in while visiting Québec whether they're road tripping through the countryside or traversing nearly 7,500 miles of cycling trails. Favorable conversion rates mean the U.S. dollar goes further for activities, including foraging at Gourmet Sauvage and staying at the province's newly opened immersive art hotel, SonoLux. Visit Bonjour Québec. Media contact: Maïté Conway, 310-980-0027.
Four Seasons Houston Features Oaxacan Cuisine Experience
A special culinary collaboration featuring Casa Oaxaca and Chef Alejandro Ruiz alongside Mike Prado from the award-winning cocktail bar Sabina Sabe. This exclusive two-night cocktail dinner experience, From Oaxaca, With Love, celebrates the flavors and traditions of the famed Mexican state. These limited-seat experiences feature Chef Ruiz's five-course menu expertly paired with Sabina Sabe cocktails. Visit Four Seasons Houston. Media contact: Brad Packer, 310-634-2452.
Santa Fe Named U.S. Favorite City
Santa Fe ranked as the best U.S. city destination in the 2025 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, achieving the #1 position on the list of readers’ “15 favorite cities in the United States 2025,” for the first time in award history. Additionally, Santa Fe scored as the #19 city on readers’ list of their “25 favorite cities in the world". Learn more here. Visit Tourism Santa Fe. Media contact: Joanne Hudson, 505-231-4947.
Muir's Cape Breton Highlands Air & Sea Expedition
New this year, in a single day, guests travel by helicopter and explore by private zodiac to access Cape Breton's wildest corners--remote fjords, sea caves, and marine life few ever reach. With naturalist guides, curated coastal dining, and seamless luxury transfers from Halifax's premier oceanfront hotel, this exclusive expedition delivers a rare, time-compressed immersion into one of North America's last wild frontiers. Find out more. Visit The Muir Hotel. Media contact: Samantha Geer, 236-558-7355.
Plenty of Cool Family Attractions in Sizzling Scottsdale
In Scottsdale, triple-digit temps can't get in the way of family fun, where there are plenty of pool activations, dive-in movies and new Arizona Boardwalk attractions. Among resorts offering family-friendly flicks are The Scottsdale Resort & Spa and Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. New at Arizona Boardwalk: Color Me Mine, paint-your-own pottery, and Ripley's Believe It or Not!. Visit Experience Scottsdale. Media contact: Laura McMurchie, 480-429-2253.
This Winter, Unwind with Wine and Barbecue by the Beach
Escape the cold of winter in Santa Maria Valley, where the weather is temperate, the beaches are clear, and wine tastings are best enjoyed in jeans. Without sky-high prices or crowds, visitors can unwind with outdoor adventure, award-winning local wine and Santa Maria Style barbecue at establishments like Far Western Tavern, which has been in business for more than 50 years. Visit Santa Maria Valley. Media contact: Nicole Shearer, 530-448-6485.
Colorado To Mark 150 Years in 2026
In 2026, Colorado will commemorate 150 years of statehood that coincides with celebrating 250 years of American independence. This dual milestone marks a rare opportunity to highlight Colorado's place within the broader narrative of the United States. Centered on the theme "The View From Here," several signature initiatives, educational programs, exhibits, and community-led events are being designed to inspire connection, community engagement and statewide pride. Visit Colorado Tourism. Media contact: Caitlin Johnson, 720-233-8520.
#IrelandUnrushed -- Slow Down, Feel More in Ireland
Why Ireland is the perfect destination for the "unrushed" traveler; see video here. With its winding coastal trails, and soul-soothing landscapes, Ireland is emerging as one of Europe's most natural fits for slow tourism, a growing global travel trend focused on deeper, more meaningful experiences. When you slow down, you feel more. Visit Tourism Ireland. Media contact: Ruth Moran, +1 646-641-2070.
Visit BC This Fall To Witness Spectacular Sockeye Run
One of North America's largest sockeye runs happens each October at the Adams River in British Columbia. Millions of salmon return every four years during a dominant run, set to peak in 2026. Visit this year for a quieter but still spectacular show at Tsútswecw Provincial Park, as salmon make their final journey upstream. Visit Destination BC. Media contact: Sabrina Robson, 604-953-6708.
Small, Indigenous-Led Tours Offered in Victoria, BC
Starting July 2025, Songhees Tours offers Indigenous-led canoe and walking tours in Victoria's Inner Harbour, guided by Lək̓ʷəŋən hosts. As the only Indigenous-owned operator, Songhees Nation's tours offer authentic cultural exchange, sharing oral history, language, and teachings, supported by Elders. Every tour is rooted in tradition and experience. Group size up to 15 people. Visit Destination Greater Victoria. Media contact: Jodi Westbury, 604-836-8317.
Castle Hot Springs Offers Wine Masterclass
Fresh off its James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant, Frasca brings its acclaimed expertise to the desert at Castle Hot Springs with an exclusive Wine Masterclass, taking place Oct. 21-23. Hosted by Partner and Master Sommelier Bobby Stuckey, guests will explore the celebrated wines of Friuli Venezia Giulia through expert-led tastings and a curated pairing dinner at Harvest, complementing the iconic desert retreat's beloved, world-class culinary and beverage program. Visit Castle Hot Springs. Media contact: Tina Newman, 626-261-0276.
Create Your Own Custom Wine in Tucson, AZ
Vertigo Wines offers a first-of-its-kind barrel-to-glass wine experience in Tucson! Located in the Historic Train Depot downtown, this urban winery offers a rare opportunity to sample wines before bottling. Focusing on Southern Arizona varietals and sustainable farmed grapes, Vertigo Wines provides a hands-on wine experience where guests can also create their own custom blend and take a bottle home. Check out Visit Tucson. Media contact: Cindy Aguilar, 520-770-2145.
Kids Free San Diego Returns This October
San Diego’s “Kids Free” month returns this October, offering big savings for families at hotels, attractions, restaurants and more. With perfect fall weather and dozens of family-friendly deals, including complimentary admission and experiences, it’s the ideal time to explore San Diego without the crowds and without breaking the bank. Check out San Diego Tourism Authority. Media contact: Edna Gutierrez, 619-557-2887.
Festive Outaouais Awaits You This Summer
Located only two hours from Montreal and a few minutes from downtown Ottawa, the Outaouais region is the perfect summer destination for colorful experiences! Experience the all-new Festival Parasol, be dazzled by Les Grands Feux du Casino Lac-Leamy, and take in the city from above at the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival. This summer, let the contagious energy of the Outaouais surprise you! Visit Tourism Outaouais. Media contact: Annie Leveillee, 819-576-3157.
West Hollywood Debuts First Michelin 3-Star Restaurant
West Hollywood continues to lead L.A.'s ever evolving cultural landscape. Somni was just named West Hollywood's first-ever Michelin 3-star restaurant. This summer, James Beard Award winner Sean Brock debuts Darling in West Hollywood, his much-anticipated live-fire restaurant for the West Coast. And in September-October, the city celebrates 50 years since The Rocky Horror Picture Show made its U.S. cinematic debut after making its theatrical debut from the UK in West Hollywood. Check out Visit West Hollywood. Media contact: Eric Parker, 310-289-2525.
Phoenix Chef Wins James Beard Award for Best Chef Southwest
Phoenix earned its second straight James Beard Award for Best Chef Southwest with Chef Yotaka "Sunny" Martin of Lom Wong taking home this coveted title, reminding everyone that heat isn't the only thing packing a punch this summer. Continuing the legacy of distinguished cuisine, Chef Yotaka's Thai style adds unique flare to the food scene of the Sonoran Desert. Check out Visit Phoenix. Media contact: Sarah Doyle, 602-452-6249.
"Gardens Of Ireland and Beyond" A Luxurious Exploration of Natural Irish Beauty and Culture
Experience beauty, heritage, and charm of Ireland through its most scenic regions. Along the way, enjoy private visits to renowned gardens, historic estates, and cultural landmarks. Immerse yourself in the stories of Ireland's past. From elegant towns to hidden natural gems, this journey blends relaxation, discovery, and authentic Irish hospitality offering a rich, memorable taste of the island's timeless allure. Visit Adams & Butler. Media contact: Siobhan Byrne, +353 1 288 9355.
Iconic Wineries of British Columbia Unveils First of Its Kind Luxury Yacht Experience in the Okanagan Valley
Together with three prestigious family-owned Kelowna wineries, Mission Hill Family Estate, Martin’s Lane Winery and CedarCreek Estate Winery, the Iconic Winery Estates Yacht Experience is a luxurious, fully curated one-day journey in which guests board a private Cobalt yacht for a day of on-and-off-water excursions, exploring the captivating winery estates that have defined the Okanagan Valley, the world’s northernmost winemaking region. It will make its debut through a series of three sailings for the 2025 summer season. Yacht Experience - Mission Hill Family Estate. Visit Iconic Wineries of BC. Media contact: Kaylyn Storey, 604-735-8503.
New Modern Chophouse Opens This Month at Four Seasons Jackson Hole
Opening July 2025, Wyoming's distinctive spirit is central at Steadfire, a modern chophouse celebrating the heritage, resources and stories of the American West. The finest meat, fish, game and vegetables are prepared by flame, primarily sustainably sourced from local ranchers and farmers. Grilled, roasted and smoked dishes anchor a menu that equally highlights lighter fare, heirloom breads and pastries, and a classic raw bar. Visit Four Seasons Jackson Hole. Media contact: Kim Cole, 480-980-8773.
Visit Camelback Inn for Wellness Experience in Scottsdale's "Golden Season"
This autumn, JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa invites travelers to experience its new Celestial Wellness Package, blending desert energy with stargazing rituals, sound baths, and spa treatments. Ideal for wellness seekers and romantic escapes, the resort pairs Southwestern charm with Scottsdale's golden season. Visit JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa. Media contact: Tatum Luoma, 602-690-6290.