New Mexico Tourism Department resumed its True Tour series last week by hitting the road for a visit to the Southwest region of the state. The first stop was Truth or Consequences followed by Silver City, where Deputy Tourism Secretary Antoinette Vigil and representatives from five NMTD divisions spent a day in each location connecting with the local tourism community and touring local attractions and businesses. 

Joining Deputy Vigil was Tourism Development Director Lancing Adams, New Mexico Magazine CEO Edward Graves, Marketing Communications Specialist Taylor Lawrence, and Media Relations Manager Nicole Barker. In each town, the group presented at public meetings about how the destination and local businesses can connect with and benefit from NMTD programs and offerings. The presentation touched on topics ranging from the Department's Rural Pathway Program to digital support for hoteliers and even included a sneak peek of the department's New Mexico True summer marketing campaign. Each community welcomed approximately 45 people in attendance, many of whom stuck around after the presentation to connect with NMTD representatives.

Guided by local tourism stakeholders, the group toured tourism-related outlets with each visit, including lodging accommodations, hot springs, food and beverage establishments, art galleries, historic theaters, and more.

“I am now better equipped to promote both destinations' unique charm - and getting to talk face-to-face with local tourism stakeholders is already proving to be super helpful in enhancing collaboration," said Nicole Barker, whose work focuses on earned media. 

The group reported one highlight of the journey through Southwest New Mexico was driving the beautiful—and winding—Geronimo Trail National Scenic Byway that connects Silver City and Truth or Consequences. The group also enjoyed quick stops at iconic eateries in Hatch and San Antonio on its way to and from their offices in Santa Fe. 

NMTD will be visiting more New Mexico destinations later this Spring and Summer. If you are interested in attending an upcoming meeting, you can receive forthcoming details by subscribing to NMTD's Tourism Talk newsletter or by connecting with the corresponding local destination representatives.