Long service and annual leave makes Australian travellers among the most important travel markets to the US, according to Visit USA Australia president Geoffrey Hutton.

Speaking to e-Travel Blackboard the President explained that Aussie travellers are America’s longest staying market with an average stay of up to 25 days compared to 8-14 days for other major travel markets.

He explained that as well as our love for the destination, our lengthier visits are due to our annual leave and long service leave.

As well as using up our entire holiday period to explore the Statue of Liberty and the stars in Hollywood, Aussies are also the most interactive American travellers with the tendency to visit 2.5 states as opposed to one like other markets.

“It is interesting that Australian travel is more than just the major cities,” he said.

“Australia is the number two market for native American visits.

“They get out and get involved which is important.”

Appealing to Aussie diversity, Mr Hutton said this year Visit USA will present up to 40 exhibitors, some new and some regular.

 Commencing 13 February in Sydney, Mr Hutton said in 2012 agents will get to chat with exhibitors from popular destinations include New York and Las Vegas as well as representatives from newer locations including Texas, Dakota and Portland.

Shopping will also headline this year with premium outlets setting up stands to unveil the newest and best in US retail while adventure companies including Eagle Riders will for the first time expose America’s connection to classic and sporty cars.

2012 will see the expo take-on Sydney (13 February), Melbourne (15 February), Brisbane (20 February) and for the first time in seven years, Adelaide (14 February).

Mr Hutton explained the company was returning to South Australia this year after receiving much interest for the Group to return.

“We’re getting a lot of requests to go there it is a strong market for the us its after requests from Adelaide to bring the expo there we’ve responded and pleased with the result in terms of the number of agents,” he explained.