Sorry, We Are Not In Right Now

Hi,

Thanks for checking out our blog, we really appreciate it.

However, our blog has moved to http://travel2dot0.wordpress.com/

Sorry that you have to visit another site to find us, but it is worth it...we have all of our 'classic' posts and comments on the new blog, plus a ton of new thoughts and ideas.

Why are we moving? Basically, Blogger failed us and never responded to our emails and requests. A clear example of poor customer service...too bad, we liked Blogger.

Come over and see us on the new blog.

Regards,
Troy and Mo

Thursday, July 17, 2008

The State of the American Traveler - July Report

Our friends at Destination Analysts passed along the newest edition of their extremely informative 'The State of the American Traveler' report. You can view the entire report here (.pdf), but here are some interactive-specific highlights:

Plus, be sure to take a look at the larger chart on page 4, for the question 'In the past 12 months, which of these resources or internet technologies have you used to specifically help plan your leisure travel?' Some of the results:

UGC Reviews of Hotels - 23.2%
UGC Travel Itinerary or Blog - 16.7%
UGC Destination Reviews - 16.1%
DMO Pages on a Social Media Site - 6.8%
Mobile / PDA To Access Travel Info - 17.2%
Google Earth - 19.2%
Online Travel Videos - 8.8%
Word of Mouth - 32.1%
The numbers that really jump out at me are the 16.7% who used an 'UGC Itinerary or Blog' and the 6.8% that used a 'DMO Page on a Social Media Site.' Both of those are pretty healthy numbers.

As far as the 17.2% who used a mobile device, I would like to see a deeper analysis into those results. My guess is the majority of those mobile visits are for such activities as checking flights, checking-in for flights and weather, rather than actual requests for decision-making travel info.

'Google Earth' seems surprising high, but it should be a little red flag that causes you to examine your organizations possible uses for Google Earth. See our recent post about Walt Disney World.

'Online Travel Videos' seems a little low, but I would attribute that to the lack of quality content. The majority of 'travel videos' currently online are simply re-purposed TV ads, not useful or informative travel pieces. Once that content becomes available, I would expect to see the number increase.

And finally, remember that while even those online, social, interactive marketing efforts might not result in convenient to track conversions, they could be increasing the 'word of mouth' about your destination. Which is still one of, if not the, best way to get your message out.

6 comments:

Cheap Flights to Dubai said...

Dubai is the best & so beautiful place to travel i have ever seen. Here any one can book Flights to Dubai at crystaltravel.co.uk or also can call us on 0800 368 0300 to get cheap flights to Dubai.

Flights to Perth said...

Dazzling city of Perth is an integral part of Australia. Incredible beaches, blend of modern skyscrapers and historical buildings, and museums making you aware of the art and culture of the city are few attractions of Perth. Take cheap flights to Perth to enjoy vacation of your life. Our Perth flights are available from all the leading airports in the UK.

Hong Kong Flights said...

This metropolis is well known for its beauty and amazing lifestyle. The best way to reach out here is by taking flights to Hong Kong. Some of the must visit places include Ocean Park, Victoria Bay, Disneyland, Victoria Peak, Ladies Market, Wong Tai Sin Temple, Sheung Wan District, Jumbo Kingdom and many others. We provide Cheap flights to Hong Kong from all leading airports in UK.

Cheap Flights to Sydney said...

The key to planning a great Sydney holiday is to plan ahead as Flights to Sydney are available at very cheap rates with us. And book Sydney Flights with us and spend quality holidays in this magical city that is blessed with some of the most spectacular attractions of the world.

Flights to Auckland said...

The metropolis of Auckland is a well planned one and has great transportation facilities so as to provide no hindrances for the people who get cheap flights to Auckland to visit its attractions. The city, being a large one flourishes with attractions ranging from bays and beaches to harbors and islands. It is often termed as an unforgettable heritage experience’ by some of the tourists who get Auckland flights from their hometown to come here.

Flights to Bogota said...

Bogota is located in the heart of Colombia and is the administrative hub of the country. Being a place of prime importance it is well renowned all over the world. It has many places of attractions that delight all the visitors by its beauty and grandeur. The place has much to explore and must be visited for an unforgettable experience. Those planning to take will cheap flights to Bogota have a great time here. It is full of surprises for its guests that make the journey of all those taking Bogota flights full of fun and adventure.