In the Media

How Big Is Texas and Diann Bayes

Here you’ll find a collection of articles, TV features, podcasts, and published work that highlight my passion for sharing the stories, destinations, and flavors of the Lone Star State. I’m honored to showcase Texas’s diversity and my adventures with audiences far and wide. Explore the latest press coverage, discover where I’ve been featured, and reach out if you’d like to connect for a story or collaboration.

Featured In: TV, Print & Online

Media Features

Professional Recognition

2023 Recipient of the Texas Department of Transportation Gene Phillips Hospitality Award

Texas Travel Counselors Conference in Mesquite, Texas

The Gene Phillips Hospitality Award is named in honor of the late Gene Phillips, who managed Aquarena Springs in San Marcos in the 1970s and was a formative influence on the early Texas tourism industry. Each year the award is presented by the TxDOT Travel Information Division in recognition for the kind of outstanding contributions that reflect Mr. Phillips’s legacy.

Diann Bayes Wins 2023 Gene Phillips Hospitality Award – Texas Travel Alliance

Published Work by Diann Bayes

TV & Podcast Appearances

Testimonials

Here’s what people are saying about How Big Is Texas and Diann Bayes:

  • How Big is Texas is the perfect description and resource of what’s “Bigger and Better in Texas.” Diann is a true professional who has a gift for sharing the most unique destinations in Texas. Her insights offer fun, exciting trips that will create a lifetime of memories. This site should be everyone’s “go-to” on the state of Texas! – Shari Lee, retired from Visit Tyler
  • Many Texans have a passion for the Lone Star State. This lady gets to write about it! Keep spreading the joy, the quirks, the food, the hospitality. Keep Texas Big! – Darragh Castillo, Visit Port Arthur
  • How Big is Texas? Diann knows. She is the only person I have known to make a road trip covering the entire perimeter of Texas, capturing the nuances of our great state. Other folks take cruises. Diann takes road trips. Road trips filled with stunning photography, hidden gems, and impeccable prose that makes you feel like you are riding right along with her and hoping next time you will be.” – Patricia More, retired from Bandera, Texas, Cowboy Capital of the World
  • This blog is a treasure! It’s like climbing in a car loaded with your favorite girlfriends for a road trip through Texas! Ride with Diann! She is going to take you places and show you things! Time is short! Take the trip! Diann will show you how! – Mary Jackson, TxDOT Travel Counselor
  • Diann’s knowledge of our great state is dynamic and compels you to experience her travels. My bucket list continues to grow of places she has shared with us. I can’t wait to see where she takes us next. – Beth Mullins, Facebook Follower

Professional Memberships

Connect on Social Media

Sample Interview Topics/Story Ideas

  • The Ultimate Texas Road Trip: Lessons and Surprises from My Perimeter Tour
  • Hidden Gems: Small Towns and Unique Destinations in Texas
  • The International Side of Texas: Exploring Global Cultures at Home
  • Eat in the Heart of Texas: How Texas Cuisine Reflects Texas’ Melting Pot Heritage
  • Road Trip Planning: Tips for Exploring Texas by Region

Contact Information

Thank you for exploring my How Big Is Texas journey through these stories, features, and media moments. Whether you’re a journalist, a fellow traveler, or a fan of all things Texas, I appreciate your interest and support.

Diann Bayes: Founder and Destination Storyteller
Email: diann@howbigistexas.com
Phone: Send email for information.
Website: HowBigIsTexas.com

For interview requests, collaborations, or more information, please reach out. I’d love to connect and keep sharing the incredible stories that make Texas unique.