Making Travel Dreams Come True
Back when Scott was running his business and traveling constantly to set up at conventions, I took advantage, took time off work and joined him. We visited places like Vancouver, Seattle, San Francisco, Washington DC, Miami and Vegas. We usually only stayed in each city over the weekend following his work events, but it was enough time to see key landmarks. Just last week we took the girls to New York City to create memories of a lifetime which we proudly shared on our social media pages and via text messages with family.
Not everyone has the opportunity to have that kind of experience. Millions of people have never even left their home state, let alone experienced distant landmarks, beautiful sights and spectacular food. According to a survey* conducted by U.S. Cellular, one in three Americans have never traveled across the country. For many, the concern of staying connected is a key issue. About 75% of people agreed that it’s important to be able to reach others.
Have you ever had a dream to see a certain landmark? Try a particular regional cuisine? Participate in activities that can only be experienced in a specific place? Could you imagine if someone knew your dreams and wishes and nominated you to be able to make it happen? The five-part digital series “Big Country” featuring renowned personality, Andrew Zimmern, depicts exactly that: people living out their travel dreams.
The first episode aired online this past Monday, July 20th, with subsequent episodes to follow and vignettes appearing on both Food Network and Travel Channel! “Big Country” showcases Zimmern connecting with U.S. Cellular customers from across the country and taking them to visit locations like New York City, Portland, Maine, Bend, Oregon and San Francisco. Individuals were nominated by family and friends with stories including a fear of flying or seeing New York City via a helicopter tour. The series features individuals who lacked the time and opportunity to travel far from home.
So far, they have featured four individuals to appear in the Big Country series. Do you recall me saying it is a five-episode series? They’re missing one. From now until August 10th, you can apply for yourself or nominate a U.S. Cellular customer to star in the fifth (and final) episode of the series.
I enjoy the simplicity and continuity that comes from being at home, yet it’s funny how much I love traveling. The food, the people-watching, the places, the weather and all the experiences. From thrill rides to historical landmarks, everything has something to offer. If you are a U.S. Cellular customer and dream of visiting some particular place, apply to be considered for Big Country! If you aren’t ready for that quite yet, tune in to Big Country and live vicariously through the others who are living their travel dream.
Where in the country would you want to go?
I live in NC and used to live in NY. I’ve been up and down the coast, and visited the midwest a couple of times. I’ve also traveled to California and Hawaii. I’d LOVE to go to Oregon one day. Hopefully in the next two to three years.
I’ve lived in NY (near NYC) all my life and I don’t think I have yet seen all there is to offer there much less the state itself! Yes I’ve traveled around the US a bit–but New York is home. By the way–did you happen to notice how friendly New Yorkers can be?
What a lucky family! We have not been to New York! Some day! Love the photos!
Being able to travel and see the world is such a blessing. It allows you and your children to become more well-rounded.
Glad you enjoyed your visit (Im from NY) and proud. We might need some fixing here and there but you will have fun…
it’s so hard to believe that millions have never left their home state!
I lived in NYC in my early 20’s and it was the absolute best! I think travel is so important and I fully intend to travel as much as possible with our kids.
I grew up an hour outside of NYC and absolutely love it. Those giant pretzels are to die for and now I am craving one so badly!
This is really neat, I know their are so many people out there who love to travel and have that in their DNA. I personally don’t want to really travel much, I think states would be fun around us, but to go out of country I don’t really have the urge to.
What a neat idea. I think I’d like to see Yosemite or maybe Niagara Falls.
I would love to see Canada because it would probably be the only country I would visit without flying! I love watching Andrew Z too!
I’ve got to watch this! I love Andrew on the weird food show that he does.
What a terrific idea and way to lift others up. I’m all in for Niagara Falls… I love the place.
We certainly have not gotten to travel as much as I would like.
Vacation is a great time to experience something new and something famous:)
I would like to visit Australia.
My husband and i won a trip there last month and it was my husbands first time. he had a blast. We made a lot of memories that day.We even got to visit the 9/11 memorial !
So cool!
This looks like a great show!
Great information, nice to know!
This looks like such a spectacular trip! I went to NYC in 2009 and got to hit quite a few cool things while I was there, but lately I’ve been dying to go back!
I agree – travelling is such a privilege! I am so thankful for every single opportunity to learn about another city or country! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Family vacations can be a great educational time. I remember growing up and going to Washington DC, West Virgina, and other places. Personally I like more nature oriented places but still with plenty of activities. My wife & her family are big fans of Myrtle Beach, SC.
Yes NewYork is amazing.. I have a complete blog post for this 🙂
http://usimages.blogspot.com
Loved your post and some pretty cool pics!
Yes thats’ so true. Travel is such a blessing. I am lucky to have done extensive travels around the world. I believe totally when they talk so highly of Travel at http://WhyTravel.IamVagabond.com