Kansas & Oklahoma REAL DEAL
Kansas and Oklahoma offer the 'authentic face' of America. From rodeos to road trips, cowboy culture to cattle ranches they are the perfect choice of states for clients wanting a ‘real’ Stateside experience, says Peter Ellegard
taste of American culture and spirit that you would be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. Kansas is perhaps best known as the
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home state of Dorothy Gale, who gets whisked off to the make-believe world of OZ in a storm. This year marks the state’s 150th birthday and, with nice timing, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s new production of The Wizard of Oz opened in London this year. Visitors to Kansas and Oklahoma will
find a few museums and attractions dedicated to Dorothy and her friends, but they will also discover two states which offer everything from Native American culture to authentic Western heritage – and much more besides. You can get a taste of the Old West by
staying on a guest ranch or by being a cowhand on a working cattle ranch or a cattle drive. And you can join in the fun
32 May 2011 •
www.sellinglonghaul.com
eighbours in the heart of America’s Midwest, Kansas and Oklahoma offer a true
at the many rodeos staged throughout the year. Alternatively, rather than following the Yellow Brick Road, hit the highways and byways and enjoy the open spaces where the big skies are at ground level. These fly/drive routes pass through many towns and ecosystems seemingly untouched by time. Indeed, you really can get your kicks on
Route 66, as almost 400 miles of the historic route cuts across Oklahoma – more than any other state. “Kansas and Oklahoma deliver the real
deal,” says Lisa Weigt, who looks after the combined international marketing programme for both states. “Visitors can expect to encounter real customs of real people at real events with real cowboys and Native Americans." “This is not a destination for those
who do not travel much. Rather, we best serve travellers looking for a slice of authentic America, those who often have the attitude of, 'been-there-done-that'." Kansas and Oklahoma have been
marketing as one destination in Europe for the past eight years. “We learned that both (states) share the same profile of European visitor, and our European visitors typically stay long enough to experience highlights in both states. Presenting the destination as one helps us better service our European visitor,” Weigt added. With a shared history that dates back
to the mid-1800s, the two states make a natural fit for a combined trip, providing a full-circle historical journey covering Native Americans, American pioneers’ westward expansion, cowboy cultures and a fair smattering of oil tycoons. Once known as Indian Territory, Oklahoma is rich in Native American culture. With members of at least 67 tribes and 39 tribal headquarters, it is home to more Native American nations than any other state. They include the Chickasaw Nation, whose heritage is celebrated in the largest tribal cultural facility in the US, the
KANSAS & OKLAHOMA Top Selling Tips...
• North America Travel Service’s Ruby Briggs says agents should sell the many year-round festivals and events in both states
• The Fourth of July fireworks party in Edmond, Oklahoma, is listed as one of the top 10 Independence Day events
• Ranch America’s Katie Large suggests agents should determine clients’ riding experience when booking a ranch holiday. “There are ranches to suit everyone, even beginners,” she says
• Ask clients if they want to get involved with the day-to-day running of the ranch or if a more relaxed atmosphere is required
© KANSAS DIVISION OF TRAVEL & TOURISM UNLESS CREDITED
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