California Partners Showcase Inspiring Product Updates at Dublin Trade Event

Don Shearer (MD Travelbiz & Travelfinders) was a guest of Brendan Croft, Associate Director at Rocket Travel Marketing, bringing together leading Irish travel partners and a strong delegation of Californian destination representatives, in Dublin’s Bang Restaurant on Monday the 27^th of April.

The event provided a relaxed and engaging environment, combining excellent hospitality with meaningful networking opportunities and insightful destination updates aimed at supporting future California programme development.

Visit Napa Valley

Napa Valley continues to position itself as one of the world’s premier wine tourism destinations. Beyond its 400+ wineries, the region offers luxury resorts, wellness retreats, hot air ballooning, and a thriving culinary scene led by Michelin-starred restaurants. Accessibility from San Francisco makes it an ideal addition to premium West Coast itineraries.

David Cater presented all gathered on See Monterey

Monterey County showcased its diverse coastal appeal, from Cannery Row and the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium to whale watching experiences in one of the richest marine habitats globally. The region also highlighted scenic self-drive routes including Big Sur and the iconic 17-Mile Drive, appealing strongly to the Irish self-drive market.

Brooke Smith presented all the very latest from Yosemite Madera County.

As a key gateway to Yosemite National Park, Madera County offers convenient access to one of the USA’s most iconic natural landscapes. Trade partners were updated on year-round visitation opportunities, including hiking, waterfalls in spring, and quieter off-peak experiences. The destination also promotes authentic rural stays and outdoor adventure beyond the park itself.

Mammoth Lakes Tourism was presented by Michael Vanderhurst

Mammoth Lakes impressed with its strong dual-season appeal. Known for world-class skiing in winter, the destination is equally compelling in summer with hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and alpine lakes. Its positioning as an outdoor adventure hub fits well with growing demand for active travel experiences.

Sophia Valdivia presented Visit Huntington Beach.

Huntington Beach, branded as “Surf City USA,” delivered a vibrant coastal contrast to inland destinations. With its year-round sunshine, surf culture, and wide sandy beaches, it appeals to both leisure travellers and families. Its proximity to Los Angeles also makes it an attractive base for Southern California itineraries.

The evening successfully combined informal networking with informative updates, allowing Irish trade partners to deepen relationships and gain fresh insights into California’s diverse offering. The mix of destinations—from luxury wine regions to rugged national parks and beach lifestyle hubs—highlighted the breadth of experiences available to Irish travellers.

Events like this continue to play a vital role in strengthening trade connections and inspiring new, creative itineraries across the California portfolio.