California Tourism's media relations staff are prepared to assist consumer and travel trade journalists, photographers and film makers with assignments requiring a visit to California.

California Tourism does not underwrite airfare and ground transportation for journalists visiting the state, and is not able to provide drivers or escorts. Following are useful guidelines for journalists interested in visiting California to research story ideas, write a travel article, or a film TV program, series or video.

Requests for press trip assistance must be in writing and sent (via mail or e-mail) at least 30 days prior to start of the press trip.

The written request should include the following:

    • Complete flight details (airline, flight numbers, arrival and departure dates and times, and airport location).
    • Complete contact details (address, telephone and fax numbers, e-mail address, etc.) for journalist.
    • If writing for print, include name of publication, frequency of publication (i.e., daily, weekly, monthly), circulation,

       and expected date that article will appear.
    • If broadcast, include name of program or series, audience numbers, and expected date and time of broadcast.
    • If on assignment, please include letter of introduction from editor and/or producer.
    • If itinerary known, exact dates of visit and desired destinations for overnight accommodations.
    • Size of traveling party. Is journalist traveling alone or with a companion? With a photographer?

       If film crew, how many? Provide names for everyone in travel party.
    • Number of rooms required. Single or double occupancy? Smoking or non-smoking room? Note: Accommodations are

       typically secured at a complimentary or discounted press rate. However, certain factors may preclude that from happening

       (high season, busy weekend, holidays, convention in town effecting availability , etc.).
    • Please note if specific type of accommodation(i.e., bed and breakfast inn, rustic lodge, upscale property)

       is critical to story angle being researched.
    • Please note if host property will be mentioned in story and/or receive credit at end of program.