According to the Spending and Saving Tracker by American Express, over half of Americans will take a trip this summer, and 89% of it will be domestic. In even more good news, they plan to spend around $1,000 per person in their group. Most said they hadn’t splurged on a trip already this year and plan to save a few dollars by driving rather than flying, staying closer to home and downgrading accommodations. Let’s hope this will be a positive influence on the Adirondacks and other “rubber tire” destinations.
Foursquare is a social media application that allows its users to “check in” at their current location with their smart phones and find out insider tips, as well as see where their friends are located. if they check in to certain places enough times, they can get rewards (free drink, etc). If they check in the most times, they become “The Mayor”, and receive even more privileges.
PA is launching a Foursquare program as part of their Summer 2010 tourism push, to try and lure younger travelers. They have placed tips on hundreds of locations along 21 road trip itineraries, and reward check ins with badges – another element of Foursquare fun. “The Fantastic Roadtrip-a-Matic” is also incorporating QR Codes on posters at many locations to encourage check ins.
Recently, BP handed out $50 Million to Gulf States affected by the Deepwater oil spill disaster. They had sued, claiming that even if many of their beaches remain clean, the traveling public would not be aware of that. Already, Tripadvisor searches for Gulf State destinations has plummeted. Unfortunately, I don’t think any amount of advertising will change people’s perceptions of what the Gulf Coast is now becoming.
Update: panama City is running a digital billboard campaign with daily updated images of its pristine coast line and beach.
Over in Arizona, the new immigration law passed has prompted many boycotts that have amounted to a loss of up to $10 million in tourism revenue. The sad part is that the call to boycott will result in hurting the people with hospitality jobs, who really had nothing to do with creating the immigration law in the first place. Even Arizona Iced Tea is facing backlash, and they’re brewed in New York!
Premier Tourism Group recently sat down with Joe Veneto “the Opportunity Guy” and advocate of the Experience Economy. Joe explains how destinations can create unique experiences that leave a powerful emotional connection with a visitor. That engagement and immersion creates a strong brand affiliation that lasts. One example I always remember is the Vermont Teddy Bear Company’s “Build a Bear” program. not only is there a factory tour, but kids actually go through the process of building their very own custom bear – something they’ll cherish for years.
Copper Mt Resort has an interesting offer that we’ve seen here in the East. Show you other mountain season pass and get a $39 lift ticket at Copper. Good promotion, and a clever and engaging spot as well (the “honey, honey, honey” part is very disruptive!).
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Jun 02 2010
