Southern NM FAM Recap – October 2017
This month two journalists proactively pitched by NMTD visited the state. They write for Forbes, AAA, Food Network, Dallas Morning News, and Philadelphia Sun. Their stops included: a balloon ride at Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, dinner at Café Pasquals, overnight at La Fonda, time to tour Santa Fe Plaza, time to explore Meow Wolf, stop for lunch in Madrid with guided tour of Mining Museum and shopping, time to explore historic buildings in Cerrillos, stop at Tinkertown, balsamic vinegar tasting in Monticello, tour of downtown Silver City, dinner at Buckhorn Saloon and Opera House in Pino Altos, a drive through the Hatch valley with quick stops at local chile markets, lunch in Mesilla, tour of White Sands, stop at World’s Largest Pistachio, tour of Lincoln Historic Site (overnight stay at historic Wortley Hotel), tour of UFO Museum in Roswell, trip to Bottomless Lakes, private tours of art museums in Roswell, tour of Billy the Kid Museum in Fort Sumner, stop at Billy the Kid’s grave, dinner at Mas Tapas y Vine in Albuquerque, quick drive down the musical highway, and overnight at Hyatt Tamaya and more. Both journalists have confirmed they will be producing multiple stories. Initial feedback from the journalists indicated they enjoyed their time in Lincoln and were intrigued by the Billy the Kid stories they uncovered while in New Mexico. They stated the most unexpected and surprising component of their experience was the vibrant art scene in Roswell. Thank you to all of the tourism industry partners who hosted this group for their hospitality and enthusiasm!
Travel Media Showcase Results
After meeting with more than 30 travel media and journalists at Travel Media Showcase held in August 2017, two digital influencers recently toured (they are still on the road in Arizona) the state on a self-subsidized trip they planned throughout New Mexico and Arizona. The bloggers have not shared their final list of stops with us yet, but we do know from assisting them with itinerary planning that they planned stops in Silver City, Hatch, Las Cruces, Ruidoso, and Roswell. As we get more information, we will share details of their journey throughout Southern New Mexico.
Upcoming Press Trips
Northwest New Mexico – May 2018
We are currently planning a May 2018 group press trip that will be a comprehensive journey through Northwest New Mexico. So far, we have journalists who write for Travelocity, Houston-area weeklies, and larger dailies within our target fly markets showing interest. Pitching to find the highest quality journalists is underway. We will work with the regional marketing board to plan this itinerary.
UFO Festival - 2018
U.S. News and World Report has confirmed they will be attending the 2018 UFO Festival in Roswell. While in New Mexico, they will be touring other cities looking for unique family travel story ideas. To have your ideas considered by this journalist, please forward them to newmexico@gowithhub.com.
Short-lead Pitching Opportunities
Currently, we are seeking story ideas to pitch as short-lead opportunities on holiday travel, unique New Year’s Eve celebrations, and winter activities. Please send information you want included with these opportunities to newmexico@gowithhub.com no later than November 5th.
Cory Cart, APR is the contracted PR representative for New Mexico True. Cory is a seasoned communications expert who has extensive experience representing travel and hospitality clients like Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, Louisiana Travel Promotion Association, Visit New Orleans, and Google Cultural Institute. Cory can be reached at NewMexico@gowithhub.com.