Phoenix rises to illuminate all of Arizona

It is beyond comparison, beyond description, absolutely unparalleled throughout the wide world,” said Theodore Roosevelt of the Grand Canyon in 1903, as he fought to preserve the 277-mile gorge for entirely public use. After urging fellow Americans to “do nothing to mar its grandeur, sublimity and loveliness,” he named the site as a national monument in 1908, winning the battle against the mining companies hoping to extract its zinc and copper. In this issue, Kevin EG Perry celebrates the gift that Roosevelt, and fellow US president Woodrow Wilson, who designated it as a national park in 1919, gave not just to Americans, but the wider world. With non-stop flights now connecting Heathrow and Phoenix, the state capital of Arizona, this life-affirming destination has never been so easy to visit (Raising Arizona, page 48).

With the spectre of “Day Zero” looming over Cape Town, Esme Fox visits the Western Cape to discover just how seriously the water crisis has hit the region and wider South Africa, noting its effect on tourism, and the lessons that can be learnt for all of us (High and dry, page 58). We also share our list seven incredible alternative destinations to take you off-the-beaten track (page 54). Closer to home, Anthony Pearce visits Bowness-on-Windermere, a slate-roofed town on the banks of England’s largest lake, and discovers why the area inspired the likes of William Wordsworth (page 40).

Also in this issue, Clare Jenkinson, ABTA’s senior destinations & sustainability manager, tackles the phenomenon of overtourism, an issue facing landmark tourist destinations such as Barcelona, Venice and Dubrovnik, arguing that the travel industry has a responsibility to protect the areas it visits (see page 30).

ABTA Magazine is also packed with industry news, from aviation to domestic tourism, beginning on page 10, plus an updates from ABTA, including news, campaigns and events, beginning on page 30.

Finally, there is the chance to win a seven-night cruise for two with Marella Cruises on the Pride of Panama itinerary on board Marella Discovery 2. Just answer the simple question on page 65.

Tell us your thoughts

We would love to hear your thoughts about this issue of ABTA Magazine, the second created by Waterfront Publishing. The magazine has a new look, editorial focus, and an increased and improved distribution, meaning it now spans the breadth of the travel industry, reaching from frontline agents to the boardroom.

We want the magazine to reflect the thoughts and interests of those working in the holiday business, so please send your thoughts to letters@ABTAmag.com.