Social Media Talk [Video]

This Week's Picks:

• Social Media in Business Travel Featuring Chris Crowley (BCD / ACTE)
  http://bit.ly/vI5gFa
• Look before you dive into Social Media (Hotel News Now)
  http://bit.ly/rvch3C

 

Destination Video of the Day: Winter in Finland

Courtesy of Visit Finland on YouTube

VietnamOnline.com Officially Introduces Tourism Video Project

VietnamOnline.com, one of the most resourceful and comprehensive information gateways to Vietnam travel information, has just released a video premiere to celebrate the first anniversary of its major transformation.

VietnamOnline.com has been a prestigious website, facilitating trade and tourism to Vietnam since 1995. The website was almost stagnant until October 10, 2010, when it saw a total renovation in both the website design and website content. The website expands to accommodate both wider and deeper information about Vietnam tourism, such as the addition of new sections: Food, News and Events, Transportation and Vietnam A-Z, to name a few.

The occasion is even more eventful with the release of a brand new video section that the editor team has vested much effort for the past six months. Now Vietnam can be captured more than just by writing, but the very vivid image and sound of the fresh-from-the-oven videos: coffee, mopeds, Vietnamese noodles, mid-fall festival.

“We are really hoping to engage global audience in appreciating the colorful Vietnam, and to encourage Vietnamese youth to become ambassadors bringing Vietnam’s essence to the world”, said video section head, Nam Nguyen, “the videos thus carry so much with them: hope, pride and dedication”.

Vietnam Online videos come in two different formats: short clips that depict Vietnam’s tourist attractions, and reports that are more explanatory and profound in portraying Vietnam. And those who have an interest in Vietnam, can find them all on either Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/vnochannel or on the website of vietnamonline.com. The latest video headlines to be released include: Ba Dinh Square, Pho, Coffee, Lotus, Beach, and more to be updated.


Source: PR Web

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company Introduces New Brand Platform: ‘Let Us Stay With You’

In a new brand platform which launches this month, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company L.L.C. showcases the core service philosophy that makes them a successful luxury lodging company, with the introduction of an entirely new communications approach. Disrupting convention in the hotel category, The Ritz-Carlton poses an alternative style of question to guests, asking ‘Let Us Stay With You’, thereby reversing the age-old approach of hotels asking guests to stay with them. Through the use of artwork, film, messaging, and digital experience platforms, guests are requested to allow The Ritz-Carlton to be much more than just a hotel; indeed to be that indelible memory that lasts a lifetime.

The campaign delivers the message in an intriguing fashion, drawing explicitly on a guests’ power of memory, by creating serendipitous moments that recall the beautiful facilities, one-of-a-kind on-site experiences, and services provided by the ladies and gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton. “We worked with a dynamic cross-section of more than 35,000 ladies and gentlemen around the world to define the pillars of the new brand platform” said Chris Gabaldon, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer of the luxury hotel company. “We made a deliberate decision not to call this a ‘campaign’ or ‘advertising program’ because we feel this platform is so much more than that. It is a series of guidelines which inform how we interact with our guests, which new products and services we introduce, how we train and evangelize our employees, and even our design décor strategy.”

The brand platform addresses a primary priority that the organization believes is essential to the long-term success of The Ritz-Carlton within an evolving luxury consumer mind-set: To create guests for life through thoughtful touch points along their continuous journey as a guest. “The Ritz-Carlton is a brand that has proven the test of time and has continued to elevate its game to compete not only within the luxury hotel sector, but amongst the most elite luxury labels in the world” commented Herve Humler, President of The Ritz-Carlton. “We continue to deliver a unique blend of refined, yet relevant physical spaces, legendary service, superb craftsmanship by the ladies and gentlemen who work for the company, and innovative services; proof that our legendary icon only continues to improve.”

Unique to previous platforms used by The Ritz-Carlton, ‘Let Us Stay With You’ declares the company’s clear point of view by defining those rare and special things that characterize true luxury. Uniting guests around the world by speaking directly to those connected by their wants and needs, rather than their geography and culture.

Components of the platform include a comprehensive advertising campaign, complemented by a memory-evoking piece of film, the introduction of additional social media networks and a website re-design revealing one of the most engaging new executions on www.RitzCarlton.com. The featurette which will debut mid-October is a dynamic, ever-changing online portal that allows ladies and gentlemen to publically curate triumphant stories of luxury service and care, reinforcing that the brand represents a new era in the luxury conversation among consumers.

Applications of the fully integrated platform also extend into the social space. ‘We care deeply about how our guests interact with us even while they’re not in our hotels, which is why we’ve paid special attention to the role of social media across our guests’ journeys” says Gabaldon, “Digital initiatives such as our Foursquare World Concierge further support our efforts to stay with our guests where ever they are, and to add value to their lives even when they’re not traveling with The Ritz-Carlton.

‘Let Us Stay With You’ packages have also been launched at Ritz-Carlton properties, in tandem with the roll out of the communications channels. ‘Discover With You’ opens a world of discovery in the Ritz-Carlton destinations, ‘Rejuvenate You’ offers a variety of tranquil spa moments and ‘Treat You’ carries the promise of the most exquisite surrounds of The Club Level.

Source: Ritz Carlton at www.RitzCarlton.com

Mary Hammond, Exec. Director of Paducah CVB and Marketing Assistant Laura Schaumburg Discuss Social Media

Courtesy of Paducah2 on YouTube

EuropeTravel.net Debuts New Online Social Community

EuropeTravel.net has today debuted their new online social community and website where visitors can share information about travel and sightseeing in any of the 55 countries that comprise Europe. In addition, the goal of EuropeTravel.net is to help create an informative network that allows travel companies to reach and connect with new customers.

This groundbreaking new website is designed for both travelers and travel companies, and offers something of value to everyone. Travelers can easily create a customized account and start sharing with others on the network. They can upload videos of their travels, share photos and join discussions about European travel, news related to travel and about the amazing destinations in Europe.

This provides an excellent way for travelers to share information on their favorite destinations, but also to engage with others who share their passions, to explore new travel possibilities and to find great deals as well. Travelers can create social profiles that give as much (or as little) information as they want, organize their photos and videos, post entries and more.

For businesses, the benefits are manifold. For instance, resorts can easily create free classified listings on the site to promote their offers. Travel companies, resorts and other businesses can upload videos that highlight the beauty of their location, their amenities and more. In addition, all of these services are available to businesses and travelers at no charge – EuropeTravel.net is completely free to use.

Businesses also gain the advantage of being able to market directly to travelers, something that is not possible on other social networks and communities. Targeted marketing and offers made directly to those who are most likely to be interested offer the best possible conversion and ensure that travel companies, resorts and others are able to engage with new customers on a scale not possible previously.

To find out more about EuropeTravel.net, visit http://www.EuropeTravel.net, or connect with them on Twitter @europetravelnet.

 
Source: http://europetravel.net/press-release-europetravel-net-debuts-new-online-social-community/

Hotel Booked in Freefall: Promotional Video for Hotels.com New Mobile Booking App

Courtesy of JT Holmes on YouTube

Hotel Spotlight: Kauri Cliffs Luxury Lodge Golf Spa Resort Bay of Islands New Zealand [Video]

Courtesy of Kauri Cliffs Luxury Lodge Golf Spa Resort on YouTube
http://www.kauricliffs.com/

Hilton Garden Inn Launches 'Life's Ultimate To-Do List Contest' On Facebook

Climb a mountain?  Learn to surf?  Skydive?  If given the opportunity, what's the number one activity you'd like to accomplish within your lifetime? According to a recent Hilton Garden Inn survey*, nearly seven out of 10 Americans have created some type of ultimate 'to-do' list with 'travel,' 'achieving a professional goal,' and 'volunteering for a cause' identified as the most popular goals. To help Americans achieve these goals, today Hilton Garden Inn launched the 'Life's Ultimate To-Do List' contest, which gives consumers the chance to make their ultimate travel 'to-do' a reality.

The contest, which runs until September 2nd on Hilton Garden Inn's Facebook page, invites consumers to share their top "to-do list" item, which will serve as their entry into the contest. Entries will also be collected to create the 'Ultimate To-Do List,' a comprehensive guide of fun and interesting things to explore across the globe, which will live on the hotel brand's Facebook page. At contest close, 10 grand prize winners will be chosen by Hilton Garden Inn to have their to-do list item fulfilled. Each winner will receive a 3-day/2-night trip totaling approximately $5,000, which includes roundtrip airfare to the destination of their choice for the winner and a guest, hotel accommodations at any Hilton Garden Inn around the globe and money to spend on the activity.

"We know the majority of Americans have dreams of exploring and achieving a wide variety of goals within their lifetime and we want to help them become wildly successful in their pursuits," said Judy Christa-Cathey, vice president, Global Brand Marketing for Hilton Garden Inn. "Rafting the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon, taking a photo safari in Africa and visiting every country in the world top my ultimate to-do list and now Hilton Garden Inn's 'Life's Ultimate To-Do List' contest gives consumers the opportunity to check off their ultimate travel bucket list goal. The goals we collect will also allow us to create and share a fantastic guide to traveling the world."

In support of the contest, Hilton Garden Inn recently conducted a survey*, which uncovered the following insights into American's lifetime to-do lists:

• Travel tops the lists of American's ultimate lifetime to-dos. More than three-quarters (83%) of those who have a to-do list say that traveling to a special destination is one of the top items they'd like to complete.
• More than one-third (32%) of Americans said the main reason they created their ultimate to-do list was to see new places.
• In addition to travel, popular goals on ultimate to-do lists include achieving a professional goal (61%), volunteering for a cause (59%) and doing something mentally or physically challenging (53%).
• Nearly one-quarter (23%) of Americans say they create to-do lists to challenge themselves and 19 percent say a to-do list helps prioritize all the things they want to accomplish.
• Almost three-quarters (72%) of people with to-do lists share their goals and experiences with others, and 76 percent of people hope to carry out their to-do list item with another person instead of by themselves.
• A surprising 20 percent of Americans list rekindling an old relationship at the top of their to-do list.
• Many Americans (41%) are not confident in their ability to check everything off their list, with 57 percent admitting lack of funds is the top barrier preventing them from achieving their to-do list goals. Only 28 percent believe they will be able to check off the next item on their list within the next year.

To enter the contest, read the consumer-generated Ultimate To-Do list, and for more information, visit the Hilton Garden Inn Facebook page at www.facebook.com/HiltonGardenInn. For access to media materials and assets, please visit www.hgimediacenter.com/ultimatetodolist.

* To better understand Americans' attitudes and behaviors related to ultimate to-do lists, Hilton Garden Inn conducted an omnibus survey of Americans, 18 years of age and older.  ORC international fielded the telephone survey among a nationally representative sample of 1,011 Americans over the age of 18. Interviewing for these CARAVAN® Surveys was completed between April 21 and April 24, 2011.  Results have a margin of error of +/- 3.1% at the 95% confidence level.

A full version of the press release can be viewed here http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hilton-garden-inn-launches-lifes-ultimate-to-do-list-contest-127298468.html


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Trover Launches Mobile Discovery Network to Connect People with Remarkable Places and Things

Trover LLC, a start-up company created for explorers worldwide, today formally launched Trover, a mobile discovery network where people share location-specific discoveries of remarkable places and things in a fun, visual way.

Founded by experienced social, mobile and travel industry entrepreneurs, Trover's founding team includes: Jason Karas, CEO, who founded Carbonrally.com; Andrew Coldham, vice president of technology who directed software development at Expedia.com's corporate travel division and Rich Barton, chairman, who founded Expedia.com and co-founded Zillow.

During a limited spring trial, open to Facebook members only, the Trover community attracted more than 70,000 users in 150 countries. To set the stage for significant expansion, the company has now opened its network to Twitter and email users as well. Trover is available today as a free iPhone app in the Apple iTunes Store, with an Android version planned for fall. Non-mobile users can view Trover content at trover.com.

Sharing Discoveries
"Trovers are passionate about sharing the unique things they uncover while exploring their cities or far away places," said CEO Jason Karas.  "People find fulfillment in introducing something remarkable to another person. That, in turn, creates a social resource that's fun, entertaining and ultimately very useful. Whether it's a favorite boutique, a great bartender, a hidden piece of graffiti or a secret path to a deserted beach, with Trover in your pocket it's easy to find and share amazing discoveries."

Trover's defining feature is its location-based discovery mosaic, which allows explorers to visually browse through an eye-catching collection of thumbnail images featuring places to see and things to do nearby. As the user scrolls, a mileage indicator guides them to hidden gems located in nearby neighborhoods, towns, states and beyond, allowing users to explore new places or plan activities. To view a specific location, simply push the Jump To button for a virtual adventure.  Trover's search features also make it easy to find and follow people with common interests.

Adding new discoveries is simple and encouraged. Just snap a picture, create a quick description and Trover automatically tags it with location data and positions it where others can easily find it later. The Feed button provides an entertaining way to track the discoveries and adventures of friends and fellow explorers, and a Featured button showcases one great discovery from the community each day.

"I've always dreamed of having a personal guide to the world with me at all times, full of recommendations from my friends on where to go and what to see," said Rich Barton, chairman of Trover.  "Likewise, I have a strong urge to capture my own discoveries, so when my friends and followers come by in the future I can steer them to the good stuff.  This is why we built Trover."

The full version of this press release can be viewed at http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/trover-launches-mobile-discovery-network-to-connect-people-with-remarkable-places-and-things-126317178.html

Social Media Club Mexico Gets Ready to Position the Riviera Maya in Social Networks

The tourism industry in the Riviera Maya is looking to form its Social Media Club chapter to propel projects and initiatives to position the destination in social networks.

Hacienda Tres Rios Resort was the host for the informative reunion with more than 50 professionals in the tourism industry who brought with them their experience and showed interest in helping with the initiative to benefit their business as well as the Riviera Maya.

Genoveva Garcia, public relations manager for Sunset World, gave the guest a warm welcome and spoke about the benefits of social networks as an important tool in communicating the public relations´ actions as a presence in the Mexican Caribbean.

There are 940 million people around the world registered on social networks in the internet, according to a study by InSites Consulting. Some of the most popular networks are YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedn, MySpace, Meneame, Metroflog, Badoo, and now Google+.

In this sense, Karla Nuñez, Social Media Club Mexico (SMCMX) leader, highlighted the successful work that has been done by the Riviera Maya green resort Hacienda Tres Rios in sharing its triumphs and campaigns through its social networks. The resort´s efforts in social media have earned the team international awards.

Nuñez explained that Social Media Club Riviera Maya will be a community of professionals interested in the benefits of social networks in the tourism industry, sharing experiences, knowledge and developing better practices.

Among the objectives of being in this club are:
To create and develop a network of professional contacts in tourism and social media (networking). To offer relevant and appealing content about social media to the tourism industry through colloquiums, studies, cases, and links (knowledge). To observe, monitor, and analyze tendencies about the presence of tourism in social media (trending). To establish and diffuse good practices and case studies of companies and institutions in the tourism sector on social media (benchmarking). To use social media trends and tools to promote Mexico tourism (practice).

Finally, she highlighted that some of the benefits of being a part of Social Media Club Riviera Maya are continuous learning opportunities, training, networking, and a branding team for professional development.

The event concluded with a networking cocktail where attendees had the opportunity to share experiences and contacts.

Via Press Release: http://www.prweb.com/releases/prweb2011/7/prweb8661080.htm



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Destination Video of the Day: Beautiful Malta

Courtesy of Visit Malta on YouTube

Travel Inspiration: Spotlight on Tourism Blogs

Photo Credit: Visit St. Andrews Tourism

Family Adventures in Garden Valley - Visit Idaho Blog

101 Reasons We Love Christchurch - Visit Christ Church & Canterbury Blog

5 Hidden Gems in St. Andrews - Visit St. Andrews Blog

Loudoun's "Farm-to-Fork" Showcases Local Food & Wine - Visit Loudoun Blog

Highest Peak in the Canadian Rockies - Tourism BC Blog

Inside Tourism: Deals, Specials, Social Media Channels

Locating exciting deals and specials on tourism websites just got easier. Here you'll find easy access to offers + respective tourism Twitter and Facebook channels. Save money on accommodations, attractions, events, shopping and more.



THURSDAY'S DESTINATIONS

Savannah, Georgia USA: 
1. Travel Deals & Specials Page 2. On Twitter 3. On Facebook 
Dominica, Eastern Caribbean: 
1. Travel Deals & Specials Page 2. On Twitter 3. On Facebook
 Dublin, Ireland: 
1. Travel Deals & Specials Page 2.On Twitter 3. On Facebook 
Tahiti, South Pacific:
1. Travel Deals & Specials Page 2. On Twitter 3. On Facebook 
Ottawa, Ontario. Canada:
1. Travel Deals & Specials Page 2. On Twitter 3. On Facebook
 Bermuda:
1. Travel Deals & Specials Page 2. On Twitter 3. On Facebook 
Lancashire, UK:

1. Travel Deals & Specials Page 2. On Twitter 3. On Facebook

Inflight Entertainment in Real-Time

Following is a list of airline magazines you'll find on Twitter.

• American Way - American Airlines @americanway 
• Celebrated Living - American Airlines @celebratedmag 
• Delta Sky - Delta Airlines @InsideSKY 
• enRoute - Air Canada @enRouteOnline 
• Hemispheres - United Airlines @hemispheresmag\
• Spirit Magazine - Southwest Airlines @SpiritMagazine

Travel Writing/Blogging Opportunities for 6/21/2011

• Travel Writers/Bloggers Wanted - MyNatour 
• Bloggers Wanted - Travel Oregon  
• Travel Writers Wanted - Stray Travel

You may also be interested in these social media positions. Click here to view.

All the best!

Travel Inspiration: Food & Dining - Spotlight on Tourism Blogs

An inside look at food, drink & dining experiences around the globe. Grab your passport and let's travel the world in search of culinary treasures.

FEATURED POSTS

Cape Town Restaurants with Fireplaces - Cape Town Tourism Blog


Culinary Enthusiasts and Do-gooders Unite! - Travel Oregon Blog


Discover the Art of Making Fine Grenadian Rum - Grenada Tourism Blog


Foodies rejoice! Ireland's local delicacies await... - Tourism Ireland Blog


Take home a piece of Welsh heritage - Visit Wales Blog

Social Network Kiwibox.com Unveils U.S. version of Photo Blogging Community Pixunity

Kiwibox.com, a New York City based social network has announced the unveiling of the U.S. version of photo blogging community Pixunity, a division of Kiwibox.com. Pixunity, already established in the European market, was purchased by Kiwibox.com in the first quarter of 2011. The now translated, exciting and internationally focused photo blog website is set to enter the domestic U.S. market and take social networking by storm.

Pixunity features an array of creative templates and designs that enables users to easily bind memories through photo books to share with their friends, family and the online community.

Themed templates allow users to capture the essence of their favorite vacation, holiday or priceless moments from everyday lifestyles and turn photo-sharing into a showcase of life's fondest memories. With themes for every occasion, Pixunity's breadth and depth of offerings lets users stretch their creativity and make photographic masterpieces.

Enhancing interactivity of the photo blog, Pixunity offers digital scrapbooking features such as additional images, borders, text options and backgrounds which customize the photo blog to match the sentiment and brilliance in the pictures each photo book holds.

Kiwibox.com believes in the future of photo book communities, and will therefore build off of the successful launch of Pixunity's U.S. version with future enhancements. Kiwibox continues to showcase its bevy of offerings as both ground breaking and highly interactive, providing its growing user base digital channels to explore, connect and party, not available to social media networks before.

Source: PR Newswire

Travel Inspiration: Museum Visits [Featured Blogs & Video]

Vincent van Gogh in Paris: Montmartre
Courtesy of The Van Gogh Museum on YouTube

FEATURED POSTS

Writing Home: One Couple's Letters from the Civil War

"My love, Once more I am going to try to write to you under difficulties as usual."

Milton Barnes started a letter to his wife Rhoda in Cambridge, Ohio with this line on December 24, 1863 - {Smithsonian National Postal Museum Blog}

Vincent Van Gogh Letters

"Always continue walking a lot and loving nature, for that’s the real way to learn to understand art better and better." -{Vincent Van Gogh Blog}

Bice Curiger's Venice Biennal

"This year’s Venice Biennale has been curated by Tate Etc. magazine’s editorial director Bice Curiger. Laid out in the Central Pavilion in the Giardini, as well as the Arsenale, it features 83 artists from across the world. The title of the 54th exhibition, ILLUMInations, has the 16th century artist Tintoretto as its starting point..." - {Tate Modern Museum Blog}

Travel Inspiration: Discover the Ljubljanica river in Slovenia [Video]

Courtesy of Tourism Ljubljana

What are the best social media vehicles to reach Chinese outbound tourists?

According to China Elite Focus, a leading marketing and PR agency, the favorite Chinese social media networks of Chinese "mass-affluent" travelers are http://www.renren.com/, http://www.kaixin001.com/, http://www.qq.com/ and http://www.sina.com.cn/.

High-end Chinese travelers, with the biggest spending capacity rely more on international social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter (with Chinese content).

Orbitz Celebrates 10th Anniversary and Relaunch of Facebook Fan Page by Flying 100 Travelers to Las Vegas

Orbitz http://www.orbitz.com/ today announced the redesign of its Facebook Fan Page making it easier for travelers to stay "In the Know" about cool new places to go, special deals, and exclusive giveaways in a social atmosphere with other travelers.  In celebration of the 10th anniversary of Orbitz and the relaunch of new the fan page www.facebook.com/orbitz for the next 10 days, 10 travelers will receive free round-trip airfare to Las Vegas with the booking of an MGM hotel during the Orbitz Fans Fly Free promotion(1).

"The new additions to the Orbitz Facebook Fan page allow us to better engage with consumers and build a community of travelers in a way that mirrors the actual experience of travel – interactive, social and fun," said Sam Fulton, Senior Vice President, Retail, Orbitz Worldwide.  "Our innovative use of social media to promote Orbitz as a premier place to book travel follows the launch of the Facebook Send social plug-in which allows travelers to easily share and solicit feedback on hotels from relevant friends or groups."

The redesigned Orbitz Fan Page is launching with new "Are You In The Know?" and "Fans Fly Free" pages.  The "Are You In The Know" page includes unique ideas on where to go and where to stay from Orbitz destination experts, interactive weekly polls, fun Q&A, and travel themed photo galleries.  The Fans Fly Free page will change frequently with the launch of each new promotion/sweepstakes. It also includes exclusive giveaways available only to Orbitz Facebook fans. 

Fans Fly Free Promotion
Get ready for slots, shots, secrets and sins.  Are you one of our fastest fans?  Now through May 13, Orbitz is giving away 100 free round-trip flights to Las Vegas to the first 10 fans each day that book a hotel room for two or more nights with a participating MGM property.  Here's how it works: 

1. "Like" Orbitz on Facebook.
2. Grab the exclusive Fans Fly Free to Las Vegas promo code on the Fans Fly Free page from May 3 through May 13, 2011.
3. Search for your favorite MGM Resort in Las Vegas for travel by October 1, 2011.
4. If you are one of the first 10 customers to apply the promo code to your participating hotel booking, you will see "Your promotion code has been successfully applied."
5. If your promotion code is accepted, winners will receive an e-mail with all the details on how to redeem their prize.
6. Too late? Check back every day throughout the promotion period for a new code.

For complete terms and conditions visit the Orbitz Facebook Fan Page at www.facebook.com/orbitz and click on the "Fans Fly Free" link.

What's Happening on the Orbitz Facebook Fan Page Now:  Which celebrity do you want to travel with?  Find out the Orbitz Fan Favorite and cast your vote.  Also, view the hottest celebrity hotels and affordable alternatives.  And, don't miss details on upcoming 10th anniversary travel giveaways.  Only available to our special Orbitz Facebook fans.

Source: Orbitz News Release & www.twitter.com/Orbitz

Contiki Holidays Partners with Environmentalist, Adventurer and World Explorer, Céline Cousteau Céline [Video]

Courtesy of Contiki Holidays on YouTube

Carnival Cruise Lines Unprecedented Social Media Event on Facebook May 1, 2011

In an unprecedented social media event, Carnival Cruise Lines is inviting Facebook fans www.facebook.com/carnival to experience the excitement of Carnival Magic's May 1 launch from Venice, Italy, with a series of videos that showcase the ship's inaugural activities along with its many unique features and innovations.

A series of 11 videos will be posted every half hour between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. (U.S. Eastern time) on Sunday, May 1.  The videos take viewers on a journey as they enjoy a front-row seat at the Carnival Magic's naming ceremony, tour the ship's bridge, and learn more about the Caribbean-inspired RedFrog Pub, WaterWorks aqua park, and Cucina del Capitano Italian restaurant, with insight from company executives who helped create these exciting new spaces.

The videos also offer an in-depth look at the ship's European ports of call and a recap of the day's events, including a chat with the ship's godmother, Lindsey Wilkerson, a former patient of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital who now serves as an employee and an ambassador of the organization. Carnival Magic's Senior Cruise Director John Heald will also answer questions submitted by Facebook fans as part of an informative "Ask John" segment.

After the videos are posted, fans can participate in a Facebook quiz based on the videos for a chance to win a seven-day Carnival Magic cruise for four to the Caribbean.

"Only a handful of people get to witness a ship launch in person so by using Facebook we're enabling fans from all over the world to be right there with us as we welcome Carnival Magic into the fleet," said Jim Berra, Carnival's chief marketing officer. "Those who are not already among our 725,000 and growing Facebook fans can visit us at www.facebook.com/carnival and simply hit the 'like' button." ww.facebook.com/carnival

The 3,690-passenger Carnival Magic will spend its inaugural season in Europe with a series of seven- to 12-day Mediterranean cruises operating May 1 through October 16, 2011. Following a 16-day trans-Atlantic crossing, Carnival Magic will begin seven-day Caribbean cruises out of Galveston, Texas, on November 14, 2011, becoming the port's largest year-round ship.

For more information, visit http://www.carnival.com/


Source: Press release at PR Newswire

"Pick Your Prize With CheapOair" Social Media Contest

CheapOAir, an award-winning website launched their "Pick Your Prize With CheapOair" contest today. One lucky individual (and someone they ‘like’) will have two prizes to choose from if they are the big winner.

Prize 1: Get Trendy in Lisbon
• Two round-trip tickets on TAP Portugal to the city of Lisbon.
• Four-night stay at the luxurious 5-star Tiara Park Atlantic Lisboa.
• A 72-hour city pass to explore Portugal’s capital and largest city!

Prize 2: Porto – Your World Heritage City
• Two round-trip tickets on TAP Portugal to the city of Porto.
• Four-night stay at the luxurious 5-star Tiara Park Atlantic Porto.
• A 72-hour city pass to explore the home of port wine along the Douro River.

The contest starts today April 25, 2011 and ends April 29, 2011.

To enter,  Like’ the CheapOair Facebook page. Already a fan? Then just leave a comment on the daily Portugal posts. Leave a comment each day for more chances to win!

The winner will be announced Monday May 2, 2011 on the CheapOair Facebook page.

For more information visit http://www.facebook.com/cheapoair

JW Marriott Indianapolis Presents the “33 Stories” Facebook Contest

In celebration of the recent opening of the tallest hotel in Indiana, with 33 stories of sophisticated design, the JW Marriott Indianapolis today announces its “33 Stories” contest promotion, encouraging fans to share their stories about the JW Marriott Indianapolis hotel.

The participant whose story receives the most “likes” will win two nights in a spacious executive suite at the groundbreaking Indianapolis hotel as well as champagne and strawberries upon arrival and complimentary breakfast for two each morning.

Full press release: http://www.prweb.com/releases/prweb2011/4/prweb8280697.htm

Idaho Tourism Unveils New Look for VisitIdaho.org Website

The Idaho Department of Commerce, Division of Tourism today unveiled a new version of their flagship website, VisitIdaho.org.

“The evolution of our Adventures in Living brand and our Great Idaho Getaway campaign inspired the updated look and feel” said Karen Ballard, Administrator for the Division of Tourism. “Easier navigation with new user interface and advanced search features that embrace mobile usage required the update of the award winning site.” said Ballard.

The site includes photography, video, 360 degree virtual tours, Google Maps and a range of social media platforms including the Visit Idaho Blog, Facebook, Twitter and You Tube.

The launch coincides with Idaho Tourism’s Great Idaho Getaway marketing campaign that runs April – Sept 2011 and offers impressive monthly vacation prize giveaways from our regional tourism partners.

For ideas on how to have an active, good value, adventure-filled vacation, visit http://www.visitidaho.org/ where you can find package deals and sign up for the vacation getaways.


Full Press Release: http://www.prweb.com/releases/prweb2011/4/prweb8237191.htm

Blog Outpost: Win a Free Vacation at the Beach!

Blog Outpost features interesting sights & sounds from Travel & Tourism blogs on our radar.

Today, you are viewing 'Win a Free Vacation on Beautiful Panama City Beach!' at http://www.edgewaterbeachresort.com/blog/?p=2388

Photo courtesy of Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort
http://twitter.com/ResortsPCBeach

Cheapflights Brings Inspiration Search to Facebook

Cheapflights, the online leader in finding and publishing travel deals, has added a new spin to its Facebook page, literally.

Now, with the Travel Inspiration application, Cheapflights Facebook users in the U.S., U.K. and Canada can spin the globe to spark their travel imaginations.

Modeled after the successful "Be Inspired" tab on the Cheapflights Web sites, the new Facebook application combines a playful interface with travel inspiration, asking users to simply click on the flag of their home country and select their departure point. From there, they have the option to add details such as budget, continent, trip type (beaches, adventure, family, etc.) and/or timeframe (next 30 days, two months or three months). The app does the rest, delivering a destination suggestion and specific flight deals for the trip.

"We are striving to put the fun back into travel and travel planning," said Chris Cuddy, CEO of Cheapflights Media. "There's a vast world of travel opportunities, and sometimes all that's missing is a spark of inspiration. Because our app is tied to real deals, we not only whet users' appetites for new places, but give them the concrete pricing and availability they need to book a great adventure."

"This app is also the perfect fit for the newest wave of budget-driven travelers -- those willing to be adventurous, try new things, and go further than they've gone before to make the most of their holiday budget. Our app opens their eyes to new choices and affordable alternatives," adds Cuddy.

The Facebook application puts inspiration search at the heart of the social media universe, where users share and compare travel plans and aspirations, but that's not all. Each spin of the globe brings a chance to be entered into a golden pin sweepstake. If a user and two friends all find a gold pin while using our Facebook application, they all win a chance to enter for a weekly prize.

View full press release at http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Cheapflights-Brings-Inspiration-Search-to-Facebook-1423036.htm

Tourism Video Channel of the Day: Visit Peru

Beginning today, we are featuring a "Tourism Video Channel of the Day" at www.twitter.com/socmediatravel.

Today, let's go to Peru! http://www.youtube.com/visitperu, Follow on Twitter @VisitPeru

Elite Resorts of Asia Pacific Launches ‘Live Elite’ Competition on Facebook!

Elite Resorts of Asia Pacific invites you to enter their 'Live Elite' competition on Facebook and experience some of the most amazing resorts in the Asia Pacific region.

Photo Credit: Elite Resorts of Asia Pacific

Each month (April, May, June, July) will feature a Sun, Sea, Spa or Snow experience at these hotels in the region: Banyan Tree Samui, Koh Samui; Huvafen Fushi, Maldives; AYANA Resort & Spa, Bali and The Green Leaf Niseko Village, Japan. Check out the details on their blog http://bit.ly/ecAb4i. Follow on Twitter @eliteresorts

New Media Travel Recognizes Vemont B&B Owners for Social Media Marketing Campaign to Reach New Customers

New Media Travel has recognized 40 Putney Road, in Brattleboro, Vermont as one of the few Bed & Breakfasts actively using social media platforms to attract new customers.

A recent TripAdvisor research project with The Professional Association of Innkeepers International (PAII) found that 95 percent of travelers never consider staying at a B and B.

Clearly, Owners Tim and Amy Brady understand the power of social media marketing in converting hotel and resort patrons into B and B guests.

And Founder and CEO of New Media Travel Kaleel Sakakeeny http://technorati.com/people/kaleeltvp/ agrees with this strategy. "Social media is critical to engage travelers," he said. "A recent survey by Google http://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article43160.html uncovered that 79 percent of consumers watch YouTube videos to research personal travel options," Sakakeeny added.

To continue building momentum for 40 Putney Road, Sakakeeny created a branded Travel Video Postcard http://www.youtube.com/travelvideo#p/a/u/2/BZiKB8Ge3kY.

"Our Travel Video Postcards http://www.youtube.com/user/travelvideo are one-minute editorial-quality, compelling sound-rich travel videos that bring destinations to life, linked to an effective energized social networking strategy. They are embedded on nearly a million websites and blogs globally," he concluded.

He also posted a blog on about 40 Putney Road on a dedicated Technorati travel feature page: http://technorati.com/lifestyle/travel/article/new-innkeepers-use-social-media-to/

But why is social media a powerful tool for building business at this independently owned inn?

"This study reveals," Tim says, "that most travelers are afraid of the B and B experience." Younger travelers, in particular, don't want to eat breakfast with people they don't know, he added.

So the Bradys accept the marketing challenge of reaching potential B and B guests with robust Facebook and Twitter accounts as well as fun, non-promotional videos posted on YouTube and other video sharing sites.

And Sakakeeny of New Media Travel says he'll continue to spotlight and partner with marketers, tourism boards, and destinations to tweet, blog, engage and market their way to success in the digital world.

Kaleel Sakakeeny, founder and CEO of New Media Travel, (http://technorati.com/people/kaleeltvp/) produces Travel Video PostCards, one-minute, sound rich travel videos; timely blogs, and Audio PostCards, all providing travel news and information for consumers and the travel industry.

New Media Travel (http://www.newmediatravel.com/) identifies travel trends and travel technology developments and actively creates editorial quality, rich media content for the travel industry.

Source: PR Web http://www.prweb.com/releases/2011/03/prweb5189874.htm

Rembrandt Hotel Bangkok Goes Mobile

Rembrandt Hotel Bangkok is now going mobile by launching its brand new mobile website. Guests using any mobile device are able to visit the Rembrandt and be automatically redirected to the mobile site featuring all the latest promotions from Rembrandt's five award winnings restaurants, make bookings, and much more.

Rembrandt's webpage also interlinks with its Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare, Blog and other social media platforms. In addition, the webpage is combined with Rembrandt's dynamic CRM platform powered by Mobikon technologies providing guests with convenience and the latest in news and updates right in the palm of the hand. The Rembrandt is proud to maintain its positions as one of the leading trendsetting hotels in Bangkok by implementing the latest technology to enhance guest experience.

Source: http://pr-usa.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=662261&Itemid=30

Mesa, Ariz. Tourism Bureau Launches New, Gadget-Loaded Web Site

The Mesa Convention & Visitors Bureau (Mesa CVB) unveiled a new website, http://www.visitmesa.com/, featuring updated Internet functions that will help the tourism organization promote Mesa’s core attributes to the online consumer.

The site, designed and hosted by Tucson-based Simpleview, utilizes numerous new and innovate tools and gadgets that are in-demand by today’s Internet user. From up-to-the-minute social media feeds for Twitter and Facebook to the addition of a coupon function for Mesa attractions and tourism-related businesses, consumers can expect more user-friendly access to travel-related content for Mesa, Arizona.

The website overhaul re-organized the destination under four basic pillars: Hotels, Restaurants, Calendar and How to Get Here. When laying out the site map it was critical to make the online travel resource easy to navigate and these four categories were selected based on most popular search terms from the previous website. The site’s content was completely updated and now reflects bold Mesa imagery that changes based on the season/time of year, as well as six sub-categories with tailored information for each unique audience: Tour & Trade, Media, Sports Planner, Meeting Planner and Visitors.

Access the full press release here http://www.prweb.com/releases/2011/3/prweb8216351.htm

First Ever Combination of Social Media and Cruise Vacation Giveaway

Cruise Discounter CruiseNow.com recently launched a very innovative and unique Cruise Giveaway with Royal Caribbean International to give away a cruise for 2 on a 7 night Royal Caribbean Cruise.

What makes this contest so unique is the introduction of social media. The sweepstakes of the past are traditionally an email or name sign up, including but not limited to, some minor demographic information. CruiseNow.com has taken that concept to the next level.

Online users are prompted to enter their email address to earn an entry in the contest, but then are invited to “connect” with Cruise Now socially to earn additional entries which will enhance their chances of winning the cruise. Some of these extra opportunities are, “Liking” CruiseNow.com on Facebook, Following them on Twitter, Retweeting the promotion to their friends, sharing the promotion on their Facebook wall, subscribing to the Cruise Now YouTube channel, reviewing a cruise ship they have been on in the past for their friends and much more. Fans of the contest will have the opportunity to earn up to 9 additional entries in the contest.

Initial response has been overwhelming and CruiseNow.com is fielding calls from news outlets across the country interested in finding out more about this innovative concept. John Keen, CEO of CruiseNow.com, says “I knew we had something special when we saw the huge response to the contest in the first 24 hours. It really shows you the power of social media. When your friends recommend something the influence and magnitude is incredible.”

The grand prize for this sweepstakes is a 7 night Caribbean cruise for 2 on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. Once Royal Caribbean heard about the social aspect of this sweepstakes they jumped on board to be the cruise line of choice for the winner. They too have been pleasantly surprised by how quickly the contest has spread. It rivals many much more expensive similar sweepstakes that have been done in recent years. It is a true testament that social marketing is here and working in a big, big way.

View original press release at http://www.prweb.com/releases/CruiseNow/cruisegiveaway/prweb8204944.htm

Golden Age of Aviation Concept Planes Come to Life Again with Launch of a New Online Community

What does it feel like to fly a high-performance fighter plane that never went beyond the concept stage? Those who had that experience did so as armchair aviators in the mid-1920s to the late ‘30s. They were at the controls of futuristic flying machines engaging in dogfights against advanced-design enemy aircraft. All they had to do was read the aviation adventure novels published in 10¢ pulp-fiction magazines.

Each issue featured aircraft that were created in the minds of the most talented aviation artists of the day. These sleek concept planes were so futuristic that they could never have been built with the technologies of those days, yet many of them have since been proven flight worthy when built as flying models.

Those same adventurous experiences of flight are alive today on a new website dedicated to preserving those vintage aviation publications. The Magazine Collector is a social network for an aviation community that focuses on collecting titles such as Bill Barnes Air Adventures and Air Trails that captured the experience of flight in the pre-WWII era.

Read the full press release: http://www.newswiretoday.com/news/87074/

Social Media Travel & Tourism Jobs for 01/31/2011

Love to travel and the world of social media? Start a career doing what you love. Browse today's featured listings for social media travel and tourism jobs. Also include other travel/tourism marketing jobs that involve some social media.

01/31/2011         Featured Social Media Travel & Tourism Jobs

• Social Media Coordinator for Cruise Company 
• Details 
• Manager Social Media - Universal Orlando Resort
  Details 
• Corporate Communications Manager - Social Media - Hyatt Hotels & Resorts
  Details
• Social Media Manager -  Langham Hotels International
  Details 
• Social Media/Sales Manager - Hilton Worldwide (Austin, Texas)
  Details 

Blog Outpost - 10 Reasons to Visit Jamaica Now: #5 – Dolphin Cove

Blog Outpost features interesting sights & sounds from Travel & Tourism blogs on our radar. Today, you are viewing '10 Reasons to Visit Jamaica Now' at Island Buzz Jamaica

Photo Credit: Lees Tours R Us via IslandBuzzJamaica.com

The aforementioned post appears to have been deleted or moved. View more interesting reads at www.visitjamaica.com/blog.

Adventures in Alsace, discover East of France

Alsace Tourism on YouTube

Location-Based Social Media Is Ready to Go Places

Brand Networks brings location check-ins and Patches to ski resort Sunday River with GO, their new promotions platform leveraging Facebook® Places

The intersection of mobile, location and social marketing is a busy place for marketers. The launch of Facebook Places and recent announcement of Deals has delivered the concept of "checking-in" to over 500 million people. Yet the question remains: how will brands harness the power of social check-ins, engage consumers and ultimately drive business objectives?

Introducing GO, the newest offering from Brand Networks, a leading Social Solutions company and Facebook Preferred Developer Consultant. GO enables brand marketers to deliver customized location-based promotions leveraging Facebook Places.

The GO framework enables the creation of custom applications on Facebook Platform and for iPhone and Android devices. A tab on a brand's Facebook Page invites fans to begin checking in, playing the game, and unlocking rewards of all types. Once users grant permission for the application, brands can begin rewarding their check-in behavior. Removing the "friction" of additional mobile app installation means users are now ready to go places.

One of New England's largest ski resorts Sunday River is trailblazing with the first GO-powered promotion and application on Facebook called Sunday River Patches. This new campaign plays off the nostalgia of embroidered patches representing adventurous travel and aligned perfectly with the resort's new marketing campaign titled "Find Your Happy Place."

Nick Lambert, VP of Sales and Marketing at Sunday River, explains that "Social media is a key component of Sunday River's marketing mix and we're very excited to be working with Brand Networks to integrate Facebook Places into our social marketing strategy."

This season, Sunday River guests can check-in on all eight peaks, at select slopeside venues like the Foggy Goggle, or on the signature lift the Chondola to earn virtual embroidered Patches. Adding to the game play, users can use select keywords to their comments when it's snowing to unlock the "Powder Day" patch for example. Tag a friend, and each guest will reveal the "Buddy" Patch. And for the true Sunday River loyalists, check- in more than 10 times and you earn the esteemed "Local" Patch. Lastly, check-ins at select locations throughout the season will have the added bonus of enabling users to claim real promotions through Deals.

Brand Networks' new leader of Location-Based Social Media, Matt Handy, is no stranger to the social space. He joins the Boston company after several successful launches for PUMA Golf, including the PUMA Open, which leveraged a host of social media tie-ins and consumer engagement both on and off-site. As he states, "With GO, we're helping brands lay the foundation for promotions which reward frequency, loyalty and brand evangelism. Broadcasting your check ins and earning virtual rewards has intrinsic value for loyalists. We're also working with our clients to link this behavior with real rewards and offers, delivering on the promise of the new "Social CRM."

One thing is clear: Facebook has changed the game again with Facebook Places. Progressive companies and cutting edge brands are just starting to get in the geo-location game and offerings like Brand Network's "GO" are helping them get off the sidelines.

Source: PRNewswire

SinoTech Group signs deal: To provide PATA members with social media analytics data

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has joined forces with the SinoTech Group, a performance-based digital marketing company headquartered in Beijing. The SinoTech Group is known regionally as technology innovators in social media analytics, search marketing and affiliate marketing. These are all areas of marketing having increased impacts within the tourism and hospitality sectors.

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed last week in Beijing by Greg Duffell, chief executive officer, PATA, and Dr Mathew McDougall, founder and chief executive officer of the SinoTech Group.

Duffell considers the partnership to be extremely significant, as there are over 500-million Facebook users across the globe who keep the online world updated about their travels. Blogs, followed by travel forums, are the second and third most popular online tools travellers use to share their experiences. Said Duffell: “With the increased popularity of social media and its powerful impact on sharing a traveller’s experience, it is imperative nowadays for travel-and-tourism marketers to learn how to engage with potential consumers by leveraging this particular online tool.”

Dr McDougall is very pleased with the signing of this partnership, as the group represents a wide range of international and domestic hotel groups, airlines and tourism groups. Said McDougall: “I am excited about entering into this two-year agreement with PATA to provide their members with social media analytics data. It is now widely recognised that social media is having a significant impact on the travel-and-tourism sector, and this is the start of addressing this need for a greater social media understanding."

Source: PATA

Award-Winning Yucatan Holidays Launches Exclusive Facebook Travel Deal

Yucatan Holidays, the award-winning travel agency in Mexico, is using innovating social media tools in an effort to increase travel to Mexico, Cancun and the Yucatan Peninsula.

With tourism being Mexico’s third largest source of revenue, government and independent travel agencies have increased their efforts to promote travel to the country in wake of growing insecurities.

Known for its innovative creation of unique travel packages and use of social media, Yucatan Holidays has recently launched an exclusive Facebook travel deal for Cancun hotel accommodations for $22 USD per person, per night for two adults and up to two children.

The exclusive promotion gives travelers the opportunity to secure the offer at the $22 USD rate while giving until 2011 to travel. With more than 5,300 friends on Facebook, the Cancun vacation package is only available to people who "Like" the Yucatan Holidays Facebook Fan Page.

Yucatan Holidays designed a quirky-looking package on their website that resembles the Facebook layout. The design of the deal page includes Facebook comments and likes from Captain Jack Sparrow, Marty McFly, Homer Simpson, and Chuck Norris.

The travel agency is on the cutting-edge of using innovative social media campaigns and techniques. Such as their weekly YH Quick Getaway which invites their fans to win a vacation to Cancun every week.

Yucatan Holidays is also a strong proponent of sustainable tourism, providing unique vacation packages that feature remarkable cultural and environmental education experiences for travelers. These authentic cultural vacations in the Yucatan Peninsula support local communities, indigenous populations, and the natural environment. The Mexican-owned agency received the International Star Award for Quality (ISAQ) from Business Initiatives Directions (BID) for its commitment to quality and excellence.

The Cancun-based travel group provides vacationers with a range of hotels, excursions and travel benefits. Mexico is the second most popular international luxury destination and fourth in the world for eco-tourism. Cancun and the Riviera Maya have become a preferred travel destination in Mexico for their attractive vacation tours, including Mexico's best beaches facing the Caribbean Sea.

Source: PRNewswire

Interactive Twitter-Based Murals in the U.S. Promote Canada

Courtesy of Canadian Tourism & YouTube

Shop, Dine and Stay - Freeport, Maine

Courtesy of YouTube

For an interactive map of Maine, visit Maine Tourism 

Blog Outpost - Quien is mas treehouse? Life in the Costa Rican trees

Blog Outpost features interesting sights & sounds from Travel & Tourism blogs on our radar. Today, you are viewing 'Quien is mas treehouse? Life in the Costa Rican trees' at http://www.livingabroadincostarica.com

Treehouse at Finca Bella Vista, Costa Rica; photo by David W. Smith

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Blog Outpost - Lonesome Lady Venice Italy

Blog Outpost features interesting sights & sounds from Destinations, Travel & Tourism blogs on our radar. Today, you are viewing a photo blog 'Lonesome Lady Venice Italy' at http://blog.kyletunneyphotography.com.

 

A photo of a lone woman walking one of the many canals in Venice, Italy

Photo Credit: Kyle Tunney Photography

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Seoul Tourism Launches a New, Convenient Online Travel Info Service

Photo Credit: i Tour Seoul

The seoul tourism organization has created a new, convenient online travel information source called i Tour Seoul. This digital service gives users access to information related to Seoul in multiple languages and is easy to use, especially with a mobile phone.

The website for i Tour Seoul, http://www.visitseoul.net, provides all the essential information visitors will need, including walking tours, package tours, itineraries, attractions, restaurants and performances. In addition, tickets and accommodations can be directly booked using foreign credit cards without having to go through a third party. i Tour Seoul's site also provides useful public transportation information with a handy i Tour Seoul Map that allows searches for any location in Seoul and lets users know the best way to reach a destination.

Travelers who have smart phones can access all of this information on the go through the i Tour Seoul Mobile website. The application version can also be downloaded for free and can be used on most smart phones, including iPhones, Android phones, and Windows mobile phones. Also, since iPhones with the i Tour Seoul Application already installed are available for rent*, there's no reason to be in Seoul without your own, personal handheld tour guide!

*iPhones can be rented with a credit card or a 600,000 won (approx. $600) cash deposit. Using the i Tour Seoul application is free, but calls made on the rental iPhone will be charged separately (within Korea: 100 won/10 seconds). Using other applications or the website may also incur additional charges.

Rental locations can be found at the Incheon international airport (located between Gates 6 and 7, and Gates 10 and 11), Gimpo international airport (located at Gate 1), and at the City air terminal's SHOW global roaming center.

Source: PR Web

Michigan Does It Again - Maintains #1 Ranking in Social Media

The October 2010 'How Social Is Your State DMO?' study has ranked Michigan Tourism #1 in the social media space. It also marks the 6th consecutive time the state achieved the winning status. The quarterly study, conducted by Gammet Interactive, is based on the 50 official US tourism offices uses of social media including Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, YouTube and others.

"As part of our marketing mix to launch the new line of Pure Michigan merchandise, social media tools like Facebook and Twitter allowed us to get the message out quickly and generate interest and sales," stated Zimmerman. Fans interested in ordering Pure Michigan merchandise can log on at michigan.org, the official state travel and tourism Web site and click on the Pure Michigan Store button. Merchandise sales help support the Pure Michigan campaign.

Travel Michigan is partnering with Fluency Media for on-going strategy and implementation for the Pure Michigan social media program. Ann Arbor based Fluency Media develops integrated marketing solutions which include social media strategy and execution, email marketing, online publishing, search engine optimization, pay-per-click advertising and Web site sales flow optimization programs.

Blog Outpost - 5 Amsterdam coffee shops that aren’t “coffeeshops”

Blog Outpost features interesting sights & sounds from Travel & Tourism blogs on our radar. Today, you are viewing '5 Amsterdam coffee shops that aren’t “coffeeshops”' at http://www.nomadicnotes.com

 

Cafe at the Hotel Americain - Photo Credit: Nomadic Notes

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Blog Outpost - A Guide to Norway’s Phenomenal Fjords

Blog Outpost features interesting sights & sounds from Travel & Tourism blogs on our radar. Today, you are viewing 'A Guide to Norway’s Phenomenal Fjords' at http://blog.hotelclub.com

 Photo Credit: Image by kennymatic, HotelClub Travel Blog

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Victoria Art Gallery in Bath signs up for Visitor Review platform

Following the success of review platforms for attractions such as Thermae Bath Spa, The Roman Baths, The Fashion Museum and Bath Historic Venues, The Victoria Art Gallery is now the 5th attraction in Bath to launch this innovative social media solution.

Using all their own branding, the Victoria Art Gallery review platform will be seamlessly integrated on their website www.victoriagal.org.uk from the 1st October 2010.

The solution will be used to better interact with their customers and to gather valuable comments and feedback about their experiences at the Gallery.

With over 1,500 decorative art treasures, and a fun-packed diary of activities, talks and tours, they hope to gather authentic customer insight, providing potential customers with the information they seek online before making a decision.

Some of the artists featured in the gallery include Thomas Gainsborough, Thomas Jones Barker and Walter Sickert.

Blog Outpost - Discovery Adventures Serengeti Wildlife Safari

Blog Outpost features interesting sights & sounds from Travel & Tourism blogs on our radar. Today, you are viewing 'Discovery Adventures Serengeti Wildlife Safari' at http://blog.discoveryadventures.com

 

Leopard at Serengeti National Park - Source: Discovery Adventures

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Social Media Workshops At Casa Velas

This past summer, the AAA Four Diamond Casa Velas Hotel Boutique in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, introduced free Social Media workshops for their guests.

The program helps guests create a profile, add friends, upload photos and “Like” pages on Facebook; create Twitter accounts as well as create and upload videos to YouTube.

“The plan is to first offer the classes at Casa Velas, rolling out the workshops to all four of our resorts at a later date,” said Juan Vela, Vice President of Velas Resorts.

The current workshops run through December 31, 2010. 

For more information, visit http://www.hotelcasavelas.com


Photo courtesy of Casa Velas

Blog Outpost - Parachuters Land at Mountain View Grand Resort in New Hampshire

Blog Outpost features interesting sights & sounds from Travel & Tourism blogs on our radar. Today, you are viewing 'Parachuters Land at Mountain View Grand' at www.mountainviewgrand.com.

 Photo Credit: Harry Parker Photography -

Source Mountain View Grand Resort

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Blog Outpost - Cowboy Up & Kick Back at Circle Bar B Guest Ranch & Stables

Blog Outpost features interesting sights & sounds from Travel & Tourism blogs on our radar. Today, you are viewing 'Cowboy Up & Kick Back at Circle Bar B Guest Ranch & Stables' at www.santabarbaraca.com

 

Photo Credit: SantaBarbaraca.com 

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