Connections made on tour: An all-American love story
Every so often, something truly special happens on our tours, and we’ve caught up with two customers, Will and Diane, about their own Elvis-inspired holiday romance.
As Memphis gears up for Elvis Week, our burning love for the southern states that ‘the King’ called home has never been stronger. With celebrations held from all week long, from 8 to 16 August, there’s never been a better time to get your Elvis fix and explore his favourite haunts. It’s not just the Graceland mansion that our customers love, either, so pack those blue suede shoes, and leave your suspicious minds back home. From the beats and buzz of Nashville’s honkytonks to the historic musical landmarks that dot Tennessee, Louisiana and Mississippi, there’s so much to enjoy across the Deep South.
While our customers usually fall in love with the spots they visit across this delightful region, every so often, we’re able to celebrate something even more joyous. That’s exactly what happened when two of our customers, Will and Diane, met and connected with one another on one of our recent tours of the USA’s musical South. We were lucky enough to catch up with the happy couple recently and asked them all about their all-American love story. Here’s what they had to say.
1. Have you both travelled with Newmarket Holidays previously?
No, this was our first time. We were also both travelling solo initially.
2. Can you tell us how you each came to book the tour, and what drew you to it originally?
I’d always wanted to go on a holiday to Memphis and Graceland, and the tour of America’s Deep South covered everything I wanted and more. Will spoke to a travel agent near him in North Wales and was keen to explore the USA’s southern music cities.
3. What were your first impressions of each other when you met on the tour?
Initially, I thought Will was quiet and reserved, but his face lit up when he smiled, and we got talking. I think Will thought I was a bit dippy at first!
4. Was there a particular moment or experience during the trip when you realised you had a connection?
A group of us on the tour had a meal together on the first night in Memphis. We got chatting and found out we shared a few interests, and Will stayed by my side for the rest of the holiday!
5. Did any destination or activity on the tour feel especially meaningful to you as a couple?
Nashville was the highlight of our holiday for us, as we both loved the same music. We saw live rock performances, country and western music, and adored the Johnny Cash Museum. In Memphis, we enjoyed exploring all things Elvis!
6. How did your relationship evolve during or after the tour – did you stay in touch immediately?
We stayed together all the time in Nashville, where we bonded and swapped phone numbers. I also gave him a number of one of my friends as I thought they would get on. Will rang me the day after I got home to say he couldn't meet my friend or form a relationship with her as he had feelings for me!
7. Do you have a favourite shared memory or photo from the trip that still makes you smile?
We saw an amazing group twice in Nashville and fell in love with the song 'Tennessee Whiskey’. We had our first dance to that record in Nashville.
8. Have you travelled together since – or do you have any travel plans coming up?
We phoned each other every day after coming home and arranged to meet up two weeks later in Chester. It was there that we both realised we had a future together.
9. What would you say to other solo travellers who might be unsure about joining one of our group tours?
Don’t be afraid to embrace new challenges and do things you feared. Travelling solo is wonderful – you’ll meet like-minded people and will be completely safe with an exceptional tour guide.
10. Looking back, how has that Newmarket Holidays tour changed your life?
It’s been the best thing we’ve ever done, and we feel like we’ve found the missing piece of our jigsaw. We’re now enjoying life together and looking forward to new adventures.
Fall in love with somewhere – or someone – new with Newmarket Holidays
Can’t help falling in love with travel? Whether you’re looking to make connections with your fellow travellers or find a new destination to fall head over heels for, we’ve got a selection of escorted tours to suit every preference. Our expert holiday planners are on hand to dig into the details of each itinerary and help you get the ball rolling on your next wish-list escape. To see every tour we have on offer, check out our full range of destinations. If you’re looking for a little more inspiration for your own Deep South itinerary, check out our Elvis-inspired rock ‘n’ roll roadmap.
