Joy Diversion series celebrates California’s inclusive road trip spirit

In July and August 2025, Visit California debuted Joy Diversion, a vibrant three-part video series hosted by BAFTA Award-winning presenter, author and disability advocate Sophie Morgan. Designed to inspire a new generation of road trippers, the series explores California through an inclusive lens, celebrating the freedom, spontaneity and connection that define travel in the Golden State.

Premiering on Visit California’s YouTube channel, Joy Diversion follows Morgan and a rotating cast of friends on three uniquely Californian adventures. From the wellness retreats of Greater Palm Springs and the otherworldly terrain of Joshua Tree to the snowy slopes of Mammoth Lakes and the breezy coastal charm of Santa Barbara, the series highlights the state’s expansive landscapes and its commitment to accessibility.

Each episode pairs Morgan with a different travel companion, including her longtime friend Jojo, broadcaster and LGBTQ+ advocate Riyadh Khalaf, and Emmy Award-winning presenter Emily Evans. Their unscripted journeys embrace spontaneous detours and personal discovery, offering a fresh and heartfelt perspective on California’s road trip culture.

The series is organized around three themed itineraries. “City to Desert” travels from Palm Springs to Pioneertown, blending desert wellness with western nostalgia. “Mountains to Lakes” journeys up scenic Highway 395 from Lone Pine to South Lake Tahoe, capturing alpine adventure along the way. “Vineyards to the Coast” winds through the wine country of the Santa Ynez Valley before arriving on the sun-soaked shores of Santa Barbara. Every route was designed with accessibility in mind, spotlighting ADA-compliant trails, adaptive sports experiences and mobility-enhancing beach tools.

Morgan’s connection to California runs deep. Since relocating to Los Angeles from the U.K., she has emerged as a passionate voice for inclusive travel. Earlier this year, she hosted a panel on accessibility at Visit California’s Outlook Forum, and Joy Diversion continues that advocacy by sharing stories of exploration, belonging and joy with a global audience.

The series launch was supported by an integrated marketing push that includes social and paid media, earned press, curated tour operator packages and a featured presence on both the Road Trips and Accessibility hubs on Visit California’s website.

With the U.K. remaining one of California’s most important international markets, the series is also a tool for trade engagement. In 2024, the state welcomed more than 637,000 U.K. visitors who contributed $1.3 billion in visitor spending. Joy Diversion will support agent education through Club California events, training resources and high-impact consumer activations that position California as a world leader in accessible travel.