Rafael Villanueva, CEO of Travel Nevada, delineates a compelling vision for the state's tourism landscape. With a keen focus on equitable economic distribution, Villanueva underscores the importance of extending tourism beyond the confines of Las Vegas. Through innovative grant programs and community collaboration, he champions the development of rural destinations, aiming for sustainable growth and cultural preservation. Villanueva's strategic initiatives, including Adventure centers and long-term planning, highlight a commitment to environmental stewardship. The unveiling of the catchy new branding, "get a little out there," reflects Nevada's distinctive charm and abundant outdoor offerings. Villanueva's interview not only unveils plans for economic revitalization but also promises a redefined narrative of Nevada as a diverse, welcoming, and environmentally conscious destination.  

  Nicknamed ‘Reboot Retreaters’ by Booking.com, this year's wellness travel trend looks at destinations and accommodations that offer a holistic approach to well-being and rejuvenation. The report statistics reveal a significant increase in bookings for wellness retreats, spa resorts and nature-centric accommodations, with a staggering 30% year-over-year growth.   The state of Nevada is home to hundreds of natural hot springs, many of which are in a natural pool, old bathtub, or, in classic Nevada style, a “cowboy tub” - a reimagined, upcycled cattle trough with water flowing or piped into it from a nearby source. There are resorts too, ranging from kid-friendly pools to luxury spa getaways paired with wellness treatments, hot spots include Carson Hot Springs, Steamboat Hot Springs Healing Center & Spa (Mark Twain himself coined the “Steamboat” moniker in 1863!), and David Walley’s Resort.   As well as being completely relaxing, hot springs are said to hold many health benefits, including improving circulation, mineral absorption, healing skin problems, reducing stress and promoting sleep - another big travel trend for 2024.   7 hot springs not to be missed:   

• Ruby Valley - Part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, scramble over giant boulders and descend fixed ropes to reach these rewarding hot springs at the bottom of a scenic canyon.
• Spencer - Cruising the Loneliest Road in America? park for a pit stop at these cowboy tubs with sweeping Big Smoky Valley views.
• Gold Strike - The 600-foot descent into this spectacularly scenic canyon promises rewarding results after a short but enduring hike to reach the springs.
• Black Rock - Bone-dry conditions are required to safely drive on the Black Rock Desert playa and reach these rugged and remote hot springs in the Black Rock Desert–High Rock Canyon Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area.
• Fish Lake Valley - Wild wonders await at this soak an hour east of Tonopah, including views of 13,147-foot Boundary Peak and unbelievable stargazing.
• Virgin Valley Warm Springs - Situated next to a campground in the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge, look out for pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, mule deer, and more.
• Soldier Meadows - Home to both public hot springs and ones on private land that require permission to access, look out for bathing pools, campgrounds, and designated campsites to make sure soaking (and overnighting) is in the right place.

  Safety in the springs    Not all natural hot springs are safe for soaking and travellers are encouraged to check the Nevada Bureau of Land Management regularly for updates. Furthermore, the water temperature in double hot springs is 185+ degrees Fahrenheit and too hot for people and pets, which is why the spring is fenced off with warning signs.   #NVHotSprings   For more information visit -  travelnevada.com/hot-springs/natural-hot-springs/