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Four Nationwide Winners Selected for All-Expenses Paid Trips to Utah Based on Their Unique and Special Stories of Experiencing "Love" in Utah

SALT LAKE CITY, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- The Utah Office of Tourism today announced the four winners of its " nationwide contest. The contest, which launched on February 14 and ended on April 15, 2024, invited people to share their stories of time spent in Utah, or a dream trip to Utah, for a chance to win an all-expenses paid trip to the state. Four winners have been selected, each showcasing the diverse ways to experience "love" in the Beehive State.

The "In Love. In Utah." campaign and contest launched on Valentine's Day 2024 with two exclusive one-day-only pop-up chocolate shop experiences in New York City and Los Angeles, and ultimately generated 1,663 entries from across the United States, to as far away as Paris, France. The entries spotlighted the incredible breadth and depth of available experiences throughout Utah—from stories of romantic love sparked during a surprise meeting on a hike in Boulder, Utah; to a mother and daughter whose love for the state grew in unexpected ways during one of the most challenging times, while receiving specialized care treatments in Salt Lake City; to the love of a loyal canine companion who received a new lease on life when he was found wandering a trail in Utah's canyon country—and a life-long athlete rediscovering her love for herself and her body following a debilitating diagnosis, with a dream to push past her limitations amidst the backdrop of Utah's inspiring and otherworldly landscapes.

The four winners below were chosen based on the compelling nature of their stories of being "In Love. In Utah." and how those stories demonstrated the distinct ability of Utah to empower, inspire and support love in all its forms.

• Michael Hankes from Oregon recalled a powerful experience under the night sky in Bryce Canyon — "a celestial dome, adorned with twinkling constellations, stirring a glimmer of happiness among his grief."
• Heather Hansen from Washington shared a story of romance sparked around a campfire along Pine Creek in the wild and remote expanse of Box-Death Hollow Wilderness.
• Kevin Fitzsimmons from California detailed falling in love with Utah amidst a tapestry woven from countless experiences — like "the wind whipping through his hair as the Wasatch Mountains unfolded beneath him like a frosted dreamscape."
• Noah St. John from Ohio encapsulated the welcoming attitude of Utahns and the simple kindness of a stranger after a day of exploring the rich tapestry of cliffs, canyons, domes, and bridges in Canyonlands National Park.

"We were blown away by the enthusiasm and response to our In Love. In Utah. campaign," said Ben Cook, Director of Marketing and Communications at the Utah Office of Tourism. "From our majestic Mighty 5Ⓡ National Parks to the legendary Greatest Snow on EarthⓇ and all of our destinations in between, it's clear that Utah inspires unique and inspiring journeys that become remarkable stories to be retold for years to come. We're looking forward to welcoming the winners to Utah, to celebrate their love and perhaps spark something new."

Each winner will receive a 3-night trip to Utah with roundtrip airfare provided by ; accommodations provided by one of four lodging partners, subject to availability and blackout dates: ; ; and , and a travel stipend.

For more information on the Utah Office of Tourism please visit .

Images of Utah are also available .

About the Utah Office of Tourism:

The Utah Office of Tourism's (UOT) mission is to elevate life in Utah through responsible tourism stewardship. We do this through marketing, stewardship, and development. Marketing: UOT curates messaging that inspires visitation, supports local businesses, and builds the Utah economy. Stewardship: UOT manages visitation statewide and supports the responsible discovery of Utah. Development: UOT partners with local communities to enhance and develop their visitor economies to benefit residents and visitors. Learn more at visitutah.com and travel.utah.gov.

Media Contact

J/PR, Utah Office of Tourism, 1 832-541-6556, [email protected]

SOURCE Utah Office of Tourism