Utah’s tourism industry recently completed its second bi-annual virtual B2B appointments with the Australian and New Zealand key travel trade and tour operator partners.
This efficient, cost-effective format allowed Utah tourism partners to share compelling updates and new product offerings for 2026 directly with key trade partners.
Virtual Connections Drive Real Interest
Last week’s virtual event saw 19 Utah tourism partners—representing destinations and business across the state including: Kane County, Greater Zion, Heber Valley, Discover Moab, Explore Logan, San Juan County, Visit Salt Lake, and Ski Utah—hosted one-on-one appointments with 23 Australian and New Zealand travel trade and tour operator partners doing business over 324 scheduled meetings.
- Utah continues to be a highly desired USA destination for Australian and New Zealand travellers, thanks to its vast open spaces, iconic outdoor experiences, and world-class attractions. Highlights for 2026 and beyond include:
- The Rocky Mountaineer “Canyon Spirit” train journey, which is extending its itinerary to include Salt Lake City, offering travellers the flexibility to end their trip in either Moab or Salt Lake City, and making self-drive touring options easier.
- The new Black Desert Resort and PGA Golf Course in St George, facilitating unique Ski / Hike / Golf itineraries.
- The expansion of the Deer Valley East ski development, enhancing Utah’s internationally renowned ski offerings.
- A rare public Open House at the iconic Salt Lake City Temple from April to October in 2027, offering the public a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to tour the interior and view the architecture after eight years of restoration.
- Utah’s status as a premier destination for natural beauty, boasting state and national park icons such as like Zion and Bryce, the renowned Utah Film Trail, and 27 International Dark Sky Parks.
Visit Utah account director in Australia and New Zealand Corey Marshall noted the positive response from the market. “The Australian and New Zealand trade’s enthusiasm for Utah is stronger than ever. They see the demand for our unique combination of wide-open spaces, adventure, The Mighty 5 National Parks and The Greatest Snow on Earth.
“With exciting new products like the expanded Rocky Mountaineer itinerary and the rare opportunity to tour the Salt Lake City Temple, we’re giving the trade compelling new reasons to promote and book Utah for 2027. Utah truly is the ultimate all-seasons destination,” Marshall said.
