This issue marks the beginning of our own summer vacation here at TravelAge West. As in years past, the production schedule is set up so that we only have one issue in July (our next issue will be Aug. 6), giving the TAW staff a short breather. Not to worry, however; even though we won’t have a print issue, we will, of course, be busy posting new stories on our website (TravelAgeWest.com) and in our newsletters.
In addition, TravelAge West has become even more engaged in a wide variety of social media platforms — giving fans the opportunity to keep in touch and share their summer vacation stories with our staff.
In the past year on Facebook alone (Facebook.com/TravelAgeWest), our friends have participated in contests, tested their knowledge with Where in the World Wednesdays, enjoyed an ongoing conversation with editors and other agents and shared tips and discoveries. Likewise, on Twitter (@TravelAgeWest), we participate in Travel Tuesdays and have shared fam trips and reported live from trade shows and events. Our latest social media endeavors include Instagram (TravelAgeWest) and Pinterest (Pinterest.com/TravelAgeWest), where you can check out the Editors’ Bucket List, Fun for Foodies and Trips of a Lifetime boards.
So whatever your favorite social media platform, we look forward to hearing how you and your clients are spending this summer and seeing some great photos.
In a recent USA Today article (“Marketers Crank Up the Heat on Summer Stunts,” by Bruce Horovitz), consumer psychologist Kit Yarrow said that summer is a great time for marketing to clients.
“People tend to feel released from obligations in the summer,” said Yarrow. “People rationalize a lot of spending under the umbrella of ‘doing it with family.’”
According to the American Express Spending & Saving Tracker, families expect to spend $1,180 per person on summer travel, and nearly half say that this summer they are seeking “meaningful experiences.”
Of course, that is a perfect way to describe what travel agents offer their clients. So, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to reach out to your clients this summer in a fun and creative way and share your stories with us on one of our social media platforms. We look forward to some good summer reading.
