Anyone who has prolonged contact with the elementary set, knows: kids are compact, opinionated powerhouses of wisdom.

They know who they are, even as they grow. They are headstrong, yet willing to learn. They flirt with pushy, but (almost) never take “no” for an answer. At least, not the first no.

They learn from us. And, we learn from them.

So, I thought I’d have a little fun with this post: Inspired by my own little person – and all the lessons he has taught me, over the years – I thought I’d share just a few of the many insights he’s provided into effective communication, human psychology, and the power of giving it your best shot.

From the importance of “no!” to the power of “why?”, here’s my take on a few lessons the world’s youngest residents can teach us about successful hotel copywriting and travel marketing.

Quick Look:

• Lesson #1: Always Ask Why
• Lesson #2: Avoid the Passive Voice
• Lesson #3: Don’t Obsess Over Perfect Grammar
• Lesson #4: Why So Serious?
• Lesson #5: Learn From Those Who Know
• Lesson #6: Be Your Best Self
• Lesson #7: Embrace Your Inner Skeptic
• Lesson #8: Throw Yourself Into It
• Lesson #9: Provide an Incentive
• Lesson #10: Practice, Practice, Practice
• Lesson #11: Keep it Simple
• Lesson #12: Don’t Be Pushy
• Lesson #13: Challenge Your Assumptions
• Lesson #14: Go for the Ask

Lesson #1: Always Ask Why?

Kids are great at asking questions. Most famously, “why?”

Why, indeed. Why? is a core element of great travel and hotel copywriting: If you can’t answer why, then you need to go back to the drawing board.

Here’s why (see what I did there?): Hotel copywriting is writing with purpose. You have a goal in mind (or, you should), whether it’s to woo travelers or to get them to hit that Book Now button.

So, before you write a piece of copy, first consider its goal: What purpose does this copy serve? In other words, why are you writing it? This goal informs that specific piece of travel or hotel copywriting.

For example, the goal of your homepage is (probably) not to make an immediate sale, but rather to introduce travelers to your hotel and destination. Therefore, as you write your hotel’s homepage, do it in a way that leads travelers down a logical path: see our rooms, get to know our destination, see what makes us different from the next guy. Know your copy goal, and you’ll know what to write.

Bottom line: Before you dive into the what or the how or the when, always ask yourself, “why?” And then, answer that why, before you move on to the actual copywriting.

Lesson #2: Avoid the Passive Voice

I know – this one’s a little esoteric. But, bear with me.

A 5-year-old probably can’t define the term “passive voice,” but I can (almost) guarantee she doesn’t use it. Think about it: When was the last time you heard a kid say, “my toy was stolen by John!” Nope – kids get straight to the point: “John stole my toy!”

Powerful travel copywriting is all about being straightforward, concise and clear. More specifically, the active voice paints a more vibrant mental image – and is, therefore, a huge benefit to your hotel copywriting. Consider this:

“Wildebeests, by the millions, storm over the Serengeti – and the deep, bone-rattling rumble of six million hooves reverberates through your safari seat to imprint upon your soul. Long dreamed, the moment is finally here.“

Versus:

“The Serengeti is covered in a storm of wildebeests, by the millions – your seat is reverberating with the deep, bone-rattling rumble of six million hooves, a feeling that will be imprinted on your soul. This moment was long dreamed of by you and now, it’s finally here.”

Which has more power? The first – the active voice. Not only is it more concise, but its active verbs also prod your imagination into multi-faceted, sensorial mental imagery. So, whenever and wherever possible, use the active voice. (Side note: The passive voice does have its place.)

Bottom line:  If you don’t know whether to choose active or passive voice, read them both aloud and see which is more powerful. You’ll make the right choice. And, that’s always better than the right choice being made by you. [Wink, wink]

Lesson #3: Don’t Obsess Over Perfect Grammar

Look. I’m not saying that good grammar isn’t important. (It is.) What I am saying is that perfect is the enemy of good enough.

Kids aren’t afraid to make mistakes. They say things like “I goed” instead of “I went,” or “I won you” instead of “I beat you.”

You shouldn’t be afraid of mistakes, either. Trial and error is how we, as humans, learn. The more you practice good writing, the better you’ll get at it.

Here’s a hotel copywriting secret: My first drafts aren’t perfect. I have typos. Sometimes, my written, rewritten, and rewritten again sentences get their subjects and verbs mixed up. My keyboard has a sticky n. But, I write anyway. Power through. Because, hammering out that first draft is good enough.

Bottom line: Do as kids do: Go for it. Perfect grammar is for your final draft.

Lesson #4: Why So Serious?

The professional world is not as serious as it once was.

Take this post, for instance. A mere 20 years ago, it would have been more Strunk & White than conversational. But today, in 2019, I can write like I speak. I can have a personality. I can sound like a real person, instead of a perfectly buttoned-up robot.

Kids know that serious often equates to boring. That’s why we always try to “make learning fun!” It’s basic human psychology: If something is fun, we’re more willing to engage.

Humans, even of the adult variety, crave emotional involvement. We want to personally identify with what we read. Especially when it comes to travel. Travel is something we look forward to. It’s something we enjoy. It’s something we can’t wait to do.

That’s why your travel or hotel copywriting should never be boring. Your room descriptions shouldn’t taste stale. Your destination descriptions shouldn’t fall flat. Even when you’re targeting the more serious business travel crowd, your copywriting should be vibrant and sensorial, conversational and emotionally relevant.

Bottom line: If your copywriting doesn’t “ensnare the senses” (I see you, Professor Snape!), then there’s something wrong. Add a bit of humor. Throw in some pizzazz. Loosen the tie and unbutton that collar. We’re talking the business of travel, after all!

Lesson #5: Learn From Those Who Know

When it comes to bettering themselves, kids have a wonderful, admirable humility: they are willing to learn, wholeheartedly.

In fact, this is one of my favorite things about my own little person: he takes constructive criticism in perfect stride. Of all the lessons on today’s list, this is the one I love the most, because it’s applicable to so many areas of life – including my own travel and hotel copywriting.

When it comes to copy, take away the ego – “I already know how to write/what I want to write” – add in a strong desire to craft better, stronger copy, and you’re well on the way to potent copywriting.

Don’t be intimidated by the experts. Don’t fight them, either. And, get excited; this is an opportunity to learn, grow, and continually improve your copy. In other words, to get better results out of your hotel copywriting.

Bottom line: You’re never “finished” with learning. Your hotel copywriting can always benefit from improvement and your hotel can always benefit from a fuller calendar. And remember, if you don’t have the time or the drive, you can always hire a hotel copywriter (that’s me!).

Lesson #6: Be Your Best Self

While we’re on the topic of things I love about my own kiddo, I deeply admire his desire and constant drive to be the best version of himself.

Every day, kids make huge efforts. They strive to count higher, subtract more digits, or land more soccer goals than the day before. Kids, by default, strive to improve on their previous best.

Here’s the tough, but real deal: your travel copywriting will never be “finished.”

Not only will you require several version drafts, plus a final draft, but you should also review your published copy, at least once per year. Why? Because, things change. Consumer expectations evolve. Web conventions morph.

Bottom line: What qualified as “great” copy in 2017, may not work as well for your 2020 audience. If you want to keep your calendar full, then regular updates to your copy are a must.

No time? Need some help?

Update Your Travel Copywriting

Lesson #7: Embrace Your Inner Skeptic

Kids are the ultimate skeptics. After all, their job is to explore and understand the world. In that pursuit, they’re constantly asking, questioning, and challenging the facts as we know them: Why do I have to eat my vegetables? Why does it rain? Why should I believe you?

Side note: Don’t confuse this lesson with #1, above: Whereas Lesson #1 asks why you’re writing what you write, Lesson #7 reminds you to put yourself in travelers’ shoes: they also want to know why, but of a different sort.

Travel is a very specific beast: Unlike most products on the market today – say, a new kind of mop – travel purchases are expensive, don’t usually carry a satisfaction guarantee, and cannot be tested prior to purchase (or returned, afterwards). From a traveler’s perspective, they’re high risk.

Travelers learn about you based exclusively on online reviews, descriptions and photos. As they read, they’re looking for the why: Why should they choose you? 

Because, there’s a lot of choice out there – a dozen, a hundred “comparable” hotels. What sets you apart from all those “comparables?” Because, trust me, only you truly understand why they’re not comparables. Without good copywriting, you’re just a list of similar amenities.

So, always, the question is why: What makes your hotel different? Your hotel copywriting should ALWAYS tell travelers why they should stay with you.

Bottom line: Be convincing. Offer proof. And be sure the traveler’s why? is clearly answered.

Lesson #8: Throw Yourself Into It

You know how kids throw themselves into things?

You know who I mean: the kids who read a full graphic novel series in a weekend. The teens who power through an 18-hour PlayStation marathon. The enthused post-birthday girl who completes a 1,000-piece Lego set in a weekend. Kids are excellent at obsessing over the things they love – the things they want to perfect.

We can learn from kids.

Have you ever heard of NaNoWriMo? Short for National Novel Writing Month, NaNoWriMo encourages aspiring novelists to just write. Go for it. Seriously – just WRITE. Don’t worry about being perfect. Just write!

Copywriting is a bit like this. Don’t get caught up in analysis paralysis. Just write. Carve out a couple of days – full work days – to sit down and power through it. Just write. Don’t worry about being perfect. Just write.

Bottom line: Obsess over your hotel copywriting. You won’t keep everything you write, but you’ll keep some of it. And some of it will be great. Do this a couple of times a year and, slowly, you’ll build a site that hooks and books travelers. That’s copy that converts.

Lesson #9: Provide an Incentive

Kids know that the hard stuff is better when it comes with a reward. They earn a free book-of-their-choice from a challenging (but awesome) summer reading program. They get a lollipop after a tough visit to the doctor’s office. They earn privileges through good behavior.

People, small and big, appreciate a good incentive. Incentives help us get over our objections. Incentives make it easier to say yes.

If you think that your simple travel calls-to-action – Contact Us, Book Now, Inquire – aren’t the hard stuff, then think again: taking that first step can be the biggest leap a traveler will make.

Your job is to get them to make it.

So, employ easy, why-wouldn’t-you-take-them? incentives: Offer a niche travel guide in exchange for an email address. Make your availability calendar visible online, in real time. Display your current discounts in a prominent location. Offer online chat, a contact form with minimal requirements, or other ultra-simple method to get in touch.

Bottom line: Incentives make the world go round. Make it easy for travelers to say “yes” to your hotel. Make it impossible for them to say no.

Lesson #10: Practice, Practice, Practice

Forget the promise of “practice makes perfect.” Perfection is too lofty a goal. It can stop you in your tracks, before you even start.

So, let’s focus on “practice makes better.”

Little kids are good at this. They don’t seek to paint a photorealistic cat; instead, they just want to draw the cat better than they did last time.

Kids’ whole lives are about practice: They practice eating with utensils. They practice picking out their own clothes. They practice their handwriting. And then, they keep practicing.

Hotel copywriting is like that: It takes a lot of practice to get good. So, get started. Now. Because, the more you practice – the more you try writing with a goal, writing for bookings, writing for conversion – the more goals you’ll fulfill, the more bookings you’ll get, the more conversions you’ll see.

Bottom line: There is no time like the present. Writing is like a muscle: You must exercise it to get better. And better is how you achieve your goals. Not your forte? You can also exercise your option for some help!

Get More Bookings

Lesson #11: Keep it Simple

When’s the last time you heard a kid utter a 15-word sentence full of 5-syllable words? Unless she’s precocious, the answer is never.

Kids speak simply. They’re not caught up with “sounding smart.” They say what they mean, no need to edit into something more complex.

Travel is not a technical subject. Therefore, your travel copywriting need not be complex.

Why say, “Our job is to facilitate your pre-trip planning. We take pleasure in being of assistance. Let the planning commence!”

When you could say, “Need some help planning your vacation? We love our destination – and love sharing it with you! Get started planning.”

Write the way you speak – in simple language. And, if you think your hotel copywriting could use some simplification, run it through an online readability test. Green means go.

Bottom line: Simple language doesn’t make you sound simple; it makes you sound relatable. And, relatable is good.

Lesson #12: Don’t Be Pushy

When was the last time that insistence worked on a stubborn kid? Nigh on never, if my headstrong mini-me is any example!

No one likes to be strong-armed. No one loves the stereotypical used car salesperson. No one wants to be sold to. 

Today’s travelers are savvier than ever before. The pick up on your sales tactics and psychological triggers. They don’t want to feel like you’re trying to pull the wool over their eyes. They want the truth and then, they want to make their own decisions.

So, instead of being pushy, be convincing. Have a conversation. Demonstrate why and how you are the right decision. Be a friend and an advocate.

Bottom line: Approach your travel copywriting back-to-front – from the foregone conclusion that travelers will make their own, informed decisions. In other words, you’re not trying to force them into a decision, but rather providing proof that they’ve made the right one.

Lesson #13: Challenge Your Assumptions

You know the expression, “to walk a mile in someone’s shoes”? Copywriting is exactly like that.

Starting somewhere around preschool, kids get really good at empathy. They’re learning about emotions and their new friends – and about how to be a friend. They ask why Friend A is sad or Friend B got scared at the sleepover. They want to understand human motivations, even if they don’t phrase it as such.

Successful hotel copywriting is about seeing the world – your world – as travelers do. And, often, they have a different point of view than you do.

So, put aside your beliefs and assumptions. Don’t expect travelers to know what you know, or to understand what you understand. Embrace a sense of wonder. Because your travelers already have.

Bottom line: See your hotel (and destination) through the eyes of your target audience. Powerful travel copywriting isn’t about how you see the world, but how they do.

Lesson #14: Go for the Ask. And Then, Ask Again.

I know, I said not to be pushy. And that’s still true. But, even 3-year-olds know that the firmest “no!” can be negotiable.

Hotel copywriters know that, too.

To be clear, I’m not saying you should push for a booking, over and over. Because, that would be the definition of pushy. It would turn travelers off.

What I am saying is that you can go for the ask – all your myriad asks – in different ways, in different locations throughout your site. Place your CTAs organically and logically and see how well they work.

Bottom line: Your site needs more than one call-to-action. And your copywriting should ask in more than one way. Phrase your asks in non-pushy (in other words, helpful and logical) language, and place them in the right spots, and more travelers will take you up on your offer.

Not sure how to get that perfect phrasing and placement?

Book a Free Consult

(See what I did  there? )

4 Ways to Use These Lessons Right now

1. Run a content audit: Head over to your website (your email newsletter, your blog, your everything) and assess your content based on the lessons above: Swap passive voice for active voice. Cut the complication. Employ various calls-to-action. Be better.
2. Start writing: Throw yourself into writing new content. Don’t worry about the details; just get started. If not right now, then carve out some agenda space right now. The point is to do it.
3. Ask questions (or comment) below: Comment below (or email me) with your questions. Share your findings. Let’s talk better hotel copywriting.
4. Take the next step: Ready to take your copy to the next level? Request a free consult and let’s chat.

The post 14 Travel + Hotel Copywriting Lessons We Can Learn from Kids appeared first on The Travel Copywriter.

Thumb though most travel writing and you’ll notice something: certain words and phrases are used over and over and over. Like a cheap… well, never mind; that’s another cliché entirely.

It goes a little something like this: All views are spectacular. City centers always seem to be bustling hubs. Every church, bridge and B&B is charming. Markets and cultures are invariably colorful.

And if not that, well – you have your synonyms. Beautiful. Crystal clear. Stunning. Quaint.

Except, we know these descriptors can’t always be true. Anyone who travels knows that some views are marred; some downtowns feel claustrophobic; some oceans are muddied; some bridges are crumbling; and in some markets, the stench is more memorable than the sights.

Imagery is paramount in travel writing. (So is accuracy, to be clear.) The question is – is imagery as important to travel copywriting?

Travel writing and travel copywriting are two different beasts, after all: The former is creative nonfiction; the latter is marketing with purpose (aka, a goal in mind). That said, when it comes to description, travel writing and travel copywriting are very much the same: you want to hint and entice with your words.

The question is, whether you’re updating your hotel’s website, brainstorming your latest blog post, or penning a new itinerary for your travel agency, is your copywriting word choice as important as spelling out your amenities, getting in a few SEO keywords, and inserting your travel calls-to-action?

In short, the answer is YES. A huge (and hugely emphatic) yes.

But, maybe not for the reasons you think.

Travel Clichés: 2-D Descriptors in a 3-D World

Travel writers, not to mention the readers of good travel writing, frown on clichés because they’re unoriginal. They demonstrate a lack of creativity and fail to communicate the essence of the place they’re meant to describe.

Worse, they mean nothing. When everything is stunning or sun-kissed, then stunning and sun-kissed lose their power of description.

But again, that’s not really the point of this post. Because, we’re not discussing travel writing; we’re talking about travel copywriting. And again, travel copywriting is great travel writing with purpose: powerful marketing, clothed in the emotive language of travel.

And that’s why it’s so important to be real. In travel copywriting, you must focus on concrete specifics – the real deal – if you want to catch a traveler’s attention.

Clichés are not the real deal. So, even if your views are spectacular or your B&B is charming, find a different way to say it.

I could end this post right here. Because, this is the first and final takeaway: Always choose real, detailed description over a travel cliché.

If this all feels a little overwhelming, then here’s the best part: Scrubbing your content of travel copywriting clichés isn’t complicated. It’s not even hard. Promise.

Powerful Travel Copywriting = Description, Not Clichés

Better travel copywriting is the absence of clichés. Clichés don’t sell; all they do is label. They leave no room for depth or emotion, detail or interpretation.

Remember: the power’s in the showing, not the telling. See the difference:

Example: “Our spectacular (cliché) beach offers something for everyone (cliché).”

Better Version: “Beneath the fractal shade of native palm trees, Our Destination is the kind place that makes you willingly forget the snooze button. This family-friendly, toes-in-the-sand enclave is a postcard of manicured beaches, wild botanical gardens, and whitewashed façades that add up to the castaway vacation you’ve been seeking.

So, sit down and stay for a while. Grab a complementary boogie board or snorkel gear, and enjoy our gentle waves and living reef. Sun loungers beckon the perfect spot to enjoy your long-awaited vacation read. And, just down the sand, children splash in the protected natural pool.”

… See the difference? (Literally.) There is power in detailed, accurate and un-clichéd description.

Hall of Shame: 7 of the Worst Clichés in Hotel & Travel Copywriting

I’ve previously covered four of the world’s worst travel clichés, so why not go for seven more? Without further ado:

1. Rich History (Synonym: Vibrant Culture)

16.8 million results in Google (Storytelling power: 0)

We’ve all heard it, over and over (and oooooover) again: No matter where you’re headed, the guidebook guarantees it has a “rich history.” Of course, it does; the world is, quite literally, covered in rich history.

Do this instead:

Don’t quote a cliché; tell an intriguing history: “Spanish Colonial heritage lives on through cobblestone streets, chasing you into centenarian courtyards and up cathedral bell towers. This is the land of the Maya and the Conquistadors, home of sacred jade and Central America’s first capital.”

The first is a vague idea; the second tells your visitors what they’ll see, do and experience. And that’s far better, no question.

2. Best-kept Secret (Synonyms: Hidden Gem, Unspoiled Gem & Off the Beaten Track)

17.4 million results in Google (Storytelling power: 0)

Most of us are guilty of this one: “best-kept secret” has a lovely, romantic ring to it. And, I do love the idea of an in-the-know/locals only/hidden gem destination.

But, the thing is, there are few best-kept secrets left in the travel world. More to the point, if you’re writing about them to any sort of audience, then they are, by definition, officially no longer kept.

Do this instead:

Don’t say something that means nothing – or, worse, is untrue. Instead, say something with meaning. This is one case where synonyms can be your friend: Remote, secluded, quiet – these are all descriptive and, while not superlative examples of beautiful travel writing, perfectly functional.

Want to go the extra mile? Turn your best-kept secret beach into what it really is: “Located down a sandy rainforest path, XY Beach is a place few know about – and that even fewer are willing to make the trek to visit. Be that fewer, because it’s worth it: powdery sands, a protected cove, the shaded respite of floppy sea almonds.. and, likely, not a single other beach-goer.”

Again – if everyone says it, the word (or phrase) loses its meaning. And an “incredible view” carries the collective weight of zilch, in today’s written word.

Do this instead:

Whenever I’m tempted to use one of these ho-hum descriptors, I ask myself: What makes this view incredible? What heartstring does it tug, what emotion does it evoke? Because, that’s what you should write about.

So, for example, instead of promising that the scenic viewpoint offers “incredible vistas,” I could say: “If you’re going to stop at any scenic viewpoint, make it at Mile Marker 32: A short (50-yard) walking path leads down to a craggy outcropping, where obstructions to the view evaporate to reveal 220º of rolling mountains, cattle country, and – if you’re lucky – a lifting mist that feels more fairy tale than modern day.”

The post 7 More Travel Clichés to Scrub from Your Website appeared first on The Travel Copywriter.

Think about the last really great movie or book you enjoyed. I’m talking about one that really pulled you in – real life fell away, you could hear nothing but this new world, and you forgot to eat or sleep. You escaped.

Escape is a wonderful feeling, especially when it comes to travel. Because travel is escape. When people search for travel – when they research their travel purchasing decisions – they’re already in the escape frame of mind.

That makes you lucky.

Travel brand storytelling is easier than most brand storytelling. After all, it’s easier to get someone excited about a wellness retreat in Costa Rica, than it is to sell them on a new brand of orange juice or a vacuum cleaner. Sure, they may be searching for a new brand of orange juice or a different model of vacuum cleaner – they may even be willing to put some time, energy, and a squeeze of excitement into that research – but travel is in a whole different istanbul escort league.

Travel is inherently sexy. We want to be sold our travel dreams.

But, easier doesn’t mean easy. Travel brand storytelling isn’t easy. Your story must resonate with travelers, if it’s going to work for you. Your story must appeal to the logical brain and charm the emotional heart. Your story must compel a purchase decision.

And that’s where travel brand story-selling comes in.

Story-Selling: What’s Your Travel Brand Story?

When marketers talk about “brand storytelling,” what they really mean is storyselling.

In other words, storytelling is the art of crafting your brand narrative around the story that travelers already tell themselves – the internal monologues they use to justify the purchasing decisions they want to make.

Or, let’s try it this way: Your travel brand story fulfills the needs of the logical brain – “how can I (or why should I) justify making this purchase?” – while simultaneously lodging itself deep in the dreamy heart, where purchase decisions are actually made.

The trick – and actually, “trick” is a terrible word, as this is the exact opposite of a trick – is to be authentic. Because, when we get down to it, all marketing – all good travel marketing, that is – is not B2C (business-to-consumer) but rather H2H (human-to-human): You are one human, connecting with another human. Hopefully, on a deeply emotional level.

No fibs. No lies. No glossing over the truth. If your travel brand story is completely honest, it will honestly resonate with the travelers it should. The people most moved by your authentic story, are the guests most delighted with your travel experience.

And that is the definition of storyselling: brand storytelling that is authentic, that is true, and that is deeply emotional – a one-two punch of logic and emotion. Once you’re through with this story, neither brain nor heart can imagine any travel experience but yours.

How to Craft a Compelling Travel Brand Story: Steps 1 & 2

Yeah, I said “Steps 1 & 2.” Implying that there are more to come.

We all have to start somewhere.

Because, here’s the thing: Travel storytelling isn’t complicated, but it is complex. There are many components.

It all starts with two questions: What makes you remarkable? and Who is your happiest traveler?

Or, if you want to get into industry speak, what I’m really asking is, What are your USPs? and Who are your guest avatars?

At the intersection of both: your travel brand story.

Yes, it’s that easy; that’s why I say it’s not complicated. But, there are many steps between here and there; and that’s why I say it is complex. Rome was not built in a day, and neither is your compelling story.

So, for now, let’s leave it as this: What makes you remarkable? and Who is your happiest traveler?

HOMEWORK

It may have been awhile since your last homework assignment – although, am I the only one who still has nightmares of forgetting an important assignment or, GASP!, walking into class only to discover it’s midterm day and I didn’t study?! just me? okay… – but I promise, this assignment will be worth it.

Set aside some time to read about travel brand USPs and guest avatars (aka personas). Don’t phone it in. Really dig in. Write them down.

And then, if you’re game, please post in the comments what you come up with. Or, just post your questions; I’m here to help.

SHHH! ↓↓↓ STORYTELLING SECRET BELOW ↓↓↓

You’ve made it all the way here, which means you’re genuinely interested in storytelling for travel. Well, then here’s a sneak peak – a pre-invite invitation to an upcoming free webinar, Travel Brand Storytelling. Reserve your spot today!

The post Travel Storytelling – or Story Selling? appeared first on The Travel Copywriter.

For time immemorial, humans have told stories. Gathered ’round the fireside, on the laps of our parents, agog before a museum painting, in the embrace of a favorite reading chair – we crave stories and how they make us feel.

Be they the lyrical prose of epic poems or crudely scratched paintings on cave walls, beautifully bound tomes or water cooler chat-worthy Super Bowl ads, we love stories. Stories are the framework to understand our world and to spread ideas.

Even if I didn’t say that stories are necessary for human survival or mention the most recent neurological research behind stories, you’d already know – we, as humans, seek out great stories.

You – yes, you – did it. When you were little and every once upon a time captured your attention. When you were a little older, and you became engrossed in your first favorite TV or book ataşehir escort series. And even now, when a good TED Talk gets your click. You, we – all of us – we love a good story.

And so, it should come as no surprise that your travel marketing needs stories.

It’s what The Industry calls “brand storytelling” but more importantly, it’s what you should call your own.

Because, in no industry is this more true than in travel. Storytelling is a direct connection with travelers. It is how you say “I am what you’re seeking.” My hotel, my vacation rental, my tour, my travel – this is the story that fits your existing internal travel narrative.

Without storytelling, you are not a travel brand. Instead, you are a travel product, a mere commodity. You are a checklist of features and amenities – nothing more. Easily substituted.

Tell your story, and you are something else. You become a tangible, dream-worthy, reachable travel goal. You become a brand. You are the story that travelers tell themselves, to justify the purchasing decisions they want to make.

I promise to dive deeper into the subject of storytelling for travel brands but, for the moment, I’ll leave you with this: 16 curated storytelling quotes, to inspire your own travel brand storytelling:

16 Quotes (+ My Takeaways) to Inspire Your Travel Brand Storytelling

1. “Most people can’t hear until they’ve been heard.” ~ Red Scott, Businessman

Takeaway: Travel brand storytelling starts with a traveler: Who is listening to you?

2. “The purpose of a storyteller is not to tell you how to think, but to give you questions to think upon.” ~ Brandon Sanderson, Author

Takeaway: Tell a great story, but leave a little mystery in it.

3. “You may tell a tale that takes up residence in someone’s soul, becomes their blood and self and purpose. That tale will move them and drive them and who knows that they might do because of it, because of your words. That is your role, your gift.” ~ Erin Morgenstern, Author

Takeaway: Travel is transformative. Moving travel stories can be the same.

4. “It’s like everyone tells a story about themselves inside their own head. Always. All the time. That story makes you what you are. We build ourselves out of that story.” ~ Patrick Rothfuss, Author

Takeaway: Be sure your stories build travelers.

5. “Marketing is no longer about the stuff that you make, but about the stories you tell.” ~ Seth Godin, Author, Entrepreneur & Marketer

Takeaway: The story you tell about your hotel/vacation home/tour/etc. is more important [in marketing] than the hotel/vacation home/tour/etc. itself.

6. “There’s always room for a story that can transport people to another place.” ~ J.K. Rowling, Author & Screen Writer

Takeaway: Write your stories to transport travelers to you, and only you.

7. “Sometimes reality is too complex. Stories give it form.” ~ Jean Luc Godard, Film director & Screen Writer

Takeaway: Hone in on a traveler’s story, and then give it form with your own.

8. “The world is shaped by two things – stories told and the memories they leave behind.” ~ Vera Nazarian, Science Fiction and Fantasy Writer

Takeaway: Tell a story that is memorable; travelers will be more likely to remember you.

9. “Stories tell us of what we already knew and forgot, and remind us of what we haven’t yet imagined.” ~ Anne L. Watson, Author

Takeaway: Spark imagination.

10. “People think that stories are shaped by people. In fact it’s the other way around.” ~ Terry Pratchett, Author

Takeaway: Your travels stories can shape purchasing decisions.

11. At its very core, marketing is storytelling. The best advertising campaigns take us on an emotional journey – appealing to our wants, needs and desires – while at the same time telling us about a product or service.” ~ Melinda Partin, Multimedia Producer & Digital Marketing Director

Takeaway: Travel is emotional by nature, so be sure to stoke that fire.

12. “Story is a yearning meeting an obstacle.” ~ Robert Olen Butler, Author

Takeaway: Inspire yearning, then be the solution to overcome the obstacle.

13. “Storytelling reveals meaning without committing the error of defining it.” ~ Hannah Arendt, Political Theorist & Philosopher

Takeaway: Never define or confine; tell an open-ended travel story into which travelers can insert themselves.

14. “We are, as a species, addicted to story. Even when the body goes to sleep, the mind stays up all night, telling itself stories.” ~ Jonathan Gottschall, Author

Takeaway: Be the dream travelers tell themselves at night.

15. “I think the best stories always end up being about the people rather than the event, which is to say character-driven.” ~ Stephen King, Author

Takeaway: All travel brand storytelling begins with your personas.

16. “Storytelling wasn’t about making things up. It was more like inviting the stories to come through her, let themselves be told.” ~ Jennifer McMahon, Author

Takeaway: Be authentic. The stories will come.

Shhh! ↓↓↓ Storytelling Secret Below ↓↓↓

You’ve made it all the way here, which means you’re genuinely interested in storytelling for travel. Well, then here’s a sneak peak – a just-here-and-nowhere-else invite to a joint upcoming free webinar, Travel Brand Storytelling. Reserve your spot today!

The post 16 Quotes (+ Takeaways) to Inspire Travel Brand Storytelling appeared first on The Travel Copywriter.

Want more bookings? Then, this Facebook group is for you.

Yes, you – for all you small-business owners in travel & hospitality. For the hotels, the vacation rentals, the travel & tour agencies, and all you other tourism and hospitality businesses that want to fill your calendars.

This is for everyone who wants to grow a business through a better website, better copy, and better content marketing.

For anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by all the you-musts and you-shoulds of building, maintaining, and growing your own website.

This group is dedicated to all things travel copywriting and travel content marketing – from creating killer calls-to-action and writing for organic (unpaid) SEO goals, to sending more effective email marketing campaigns and blogging for bookings.

Ask questions. Share challenges. Revel in your istanbul escort successes.

Because this group is for you.

The post Just Launched: Facebook Group for Travel Copywriting & Content Marketing appeared first on The Travel Copywriter.

Did you know that 95% of website visitors (= your potential guests) only look at the first page of search results?

Even more sobering, 50% of all clicks go to the top 3 results: Google Page 1, results 4-10… well, they’re not as powerful as they used to be. So, how do you climb to Google Page 1, top 3 results? With content marketing, that’s şişli escort how.

Content marketing for travel is all about climbing to the top of the pile (even if it’s a small pile – more on that in the guide), so you can choose the right keywords, pull more website traffic, get more bookings, and grow your hotel, vacation rental, or other travel business.

And that’s why I’m so excited to announce my new, free guide: How to Use Travel Content Marketing to Grow your Business.

Grow Your Business with Travel Content Marketing

This guide stands at the intersection of content marketing and more bookings.

This is a deep topic so first, my rule of thumb: If any of this ever feels like too much, table it (temporarily). The goal of this guide is to empower you to create content, not to overwhelm you. So, do what you can because any content is better than no content.

Of course, you don’t want to settle for just “some;” we’re aiming for great content – content so good, people would pay for it. (Even though you’re giving it away for free.)

That’s because free, no-strings-attached, high-quality, and unique information builds trust and authority. It’s also the perfect way to spark a conversation with your guests, build rapport, provide dynamite information, and really showcase your company’s personality.

Not to mention, boost your SEO, snag great backlinks, build authority, and… well, you get the drift.

So, what are you waiting for? Subscribe to receive your free guide to travel content marketing, and get started today!

The post FREE Guide: Travel Content Marketing to Grow your Vacation Rental, Hotel, or Tourism Business appeared first on The Travel Copywriter.

I hear you, Internet – loud and clear.

You crave travel blog ideas and content marketing inspiration. More ideas. Fresh ideas. You want ataşehir escort your hotel content, your vacation rental website, your local travel agency blog to stand apart. You want to be the best in your niche.

Great thinking. But first, let’s talk a little bit about SEO.

SEO and Travel Content Marketing

I said a little bit, so I’ll make this short. SEO for the Average Joe is not rocket science.

Simply put, SEO is about writing what your audience wants to know. Well, the good, white-hat kind of SEO is about that, at least. So keep this at the forefront, always: What do travelers want to know about your destination?

With this in mind, think of keywords. Instead of writing a blog post titled 5 Kid-Friendly Activities for Fall, try What to Do in Philly: 5 Kid-Friendly Activities for Fall. Write your meta descriptions this way, too.

Why? Well, think about how you search for information on unfamiliar destinations: You don’t type a generic “kid-friendly activities in fall” into the Google search-bar. No, rather you search for “things to do with kids Philly fall,” or “what to do in Philly autumn kids,” or “kid-friendly fall activities in Philly.”

We’ll talk more about SEO in future posts. But for now, bottom line: Always, ALWAYS write for people first. Just keep those kadıköy escort search engines in the back of your mind, too.

Now, moving on to those ideas…

26 (More) Travel Blog Ideas for Guest-Inspiring Content

1. Current Events of Interest: Travel-related events occur year-round, in every destination. Blog about national/state/county parks opening for the season. Post when new restaurants, or new golf courses, or new wineries, or new anything is announced. If past guests have done it, repeat and future guests will be interested.
2. Wheelchair-Accessible Travel: Accessible travel is important. If your hotel, vacation home, or travel offering caters to wheelchair travelers, then you can (and should) blog about accessible sites, activities, and attractions.
3. Recent Meals: Everyone loves a good food photo! Tempt travelers with mouthwatering photos from your favorite local restaurants. (Psst! Check out this beginner’s guide to food photography.)
4. Safety 101: You have your guests’ best interests in mind, so why not post a few location-appropriate safety guides? If your hotel is located in the American Northwest, write up a Grizzly Bear Safety 101; if you’re located in tropical Costa Rica, you could post a guide to Ocean 101: Watching Out for Rip Currents.
5. How Does Your Garden Grow?: A few times a year, post garden updates. What kind of produce is growing in your hotel’s garden or vacation rental’s backyard? What flowers are in bloom in your neighborhood, along the beach, at a local park, or on favorite walking trail?
6. Activism Opportunities: A growing group of socially and environmentally conscious travelers not only wants to see and experience a vacation destination, but also wants to help. Does your area have any adopt-an-endagered-animal or adopt-an-ecosystem opportunities?
7. Favorite Souvenir Shops: Most travelers like the idea of souvenirs, but aren’t tempted by the cheap tchotchkes common to many souvenir shops. Why not post a run-down of your favorite local providers and souvenir ideas: locally made (shelf-stable) food products, authentic or cultural memorabilia, and other useful and/or memorable goods.
8. Long Answers to Frequently Asked Questions: Here’s a topic where great content and SEO intersect perfectly: What kind of questions are you always fielding from guests? Write about them: The 7 Best Spots in Tamarindo to Watch the Sunset, or Costa del Sol Day Trip: Morocco in 12 Hours, or How (and When) to Snag the Cheapest New England Patriots Tickets.
9. Seasonal Hikes: If your destination (or anywhere within a reasonable distance of your destination) offers decent hiking, shout it from the rooftops! Post the best hikes/hiking trails for every season. If you’re in a cold clime, swap winter hikes for the best snowshoeing or cross-country skiing trails.
10. Leveled Hikes: Speaking of hikes, let’s squeeze every last bit of juice out of this idea: Publish guides to the best beginner, intermediate, and advanced hiking trails in the area. (These ideas also work well for biking and horseback riding trails, if applicable.)
11. Dog-Friendly Businesses: If you own or manage a dog-friendly vacation rental, hotel, or other travel service, give your fellow businesses some love! Post a round-up of area restaurants, stores, malls, parks, trails, and other amenities that welcome your guests’ four-legged friends.
12. Short & Specific Itineraries: Between longer trips, travelers dream of quick getaways. Fuel that fire with short itinerary ideas, like Your Guide to Valentine’s Day in the Poconos, or a Long Weekend Leaf-Peeping: 3 Days in Vermont.
13. Local Races: Destination races – 10Ks, Half-Marathons, Marathons, Triathlons, Ironmans, etc. – are a hot market. If you have them in your area, write about it.
14. Inclement Weather Guides: It’s going to happen: Your guests will be snowed in, rained out, or otherwise affected by not-ideal weather. Show them how to make the best lemonade with Mother Nature’s lemons.
15. Scenic Drives: Whether they’re official National Scenic Byways or just your favorite lookout points, travelers will appreciate a local guide to the best, most beautiful drives in the area.
16. A Guide to Local Booze: Booze tourism – visits to breweries and microbreweries, distilleries, and (of course) wineries – is another growing niche. Position yourself right with the best, most robust, most current guide to all the local hotspots.
17. Pick-Your-Own Food: In the same vein, people love to pick uncommon-to-them (or simply seasonal) fruits and vegetables. Publish a comprehensive guide to all the seasonal pick-your-own places: strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, apples, pumpkins, farm-fresh eggs, etc. etc.
18. Kid-Friendly Activities (with a twist): Kid-friendly is pretty done by now, at least for most destinations, so add in an irresistible addendum, like Philly for Families: 8 Kid-friendly Activities Adults Will Love, Too.
19. Tongue-in-Cheek Humor: This may qualify as clickbait, but it’s clickbait with humor. Consider publishing tongue-in-cheek warnings about your destination, ex. 8 Reasons You’d Hate to Honeymoon in Costa Rica, followed by reasons like The scenery is hideous (accompanying photo: spectacular ocean views).
20. Month-Specific Reasons to Visit: Here’s a 12-in-1 for you: 5 Reasons to Visit Vail in [Month]. Not only will this kind of post help fuel off-season travel, but it’ll help you build a really great, year-round activities and attractions list for your website, visitors guide, and other offerings.
21. Destination Soundtracks/Playlists: Who doesn’t love music? Play off that universal interest by promoting local artists, or songs that mention your locale, or just playlists based on specific interests (ex. Soundtrack to Spring: A Playlist for Early-Season Hiking in the Smokies).
22. Book Lists: Vacation and reading often go hand-in-hand. Inspire bookworms with books set in your destination or reading lists perfect for your place (ex. 5 Cozy Mysteries to Read by the Fire).
23. Local Arts & Crafts: There’s something about vacation that inspires people to create. Build a great list of local art and craft workshops, like DIY pottery or national parks that offer nature art for kids.
24. Seasonal Food Guides: Part of the fun of a destination is discovering new food, amiright? Publish a guide to your favorite local farmers markets, indoor markets, street vendors, and other local can’t-miss foodie stops.
25. Introductions to Traditional Dishes: And speaking of food, your destination probably has a signature dish or two: lobster rolls in Maine, artisanal cheeses in France, churrasco in Brazil. Introduce your readers to these dishes, and then show them where to find the tastiest, most authentic versions.
26. Art Exhibitions, Installations & Galleries: Vacation is often the only extended free time we have, which means we explore all the interests we don’t usually have time for. Art is one of them, so tell your readers where they can find the best art, from cave drawings to modern statues, in your area.

4 Ways to Use This Information Right Now:

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1. Ask around: Tap your peers, check out the competition, and şirinevler escort ask your social networks about what they write about. What are their best, most traveler-loved travel blog ideas? What content marketing efforts yield the most comments, the most shares?
2. Mine guests’ past emails: Perhaps the most important thing you can do, malatya escort is to dig into your archive of guest emails for ideas on what travelers most want to know about your destination.
3. Start jotting down ideas: Don’t worry about list organization or perfecting a promising topic – just start writing down all the content possibilities that come to mind. Carry a notebook with you everywhere. Only when you’ve exhausted your creativity, should you circle back to pick your favorites.
4. Ask questions (or comment) below: Let’s start a conversation about better travel content marketing. Discuss the challenges you’ve faced, ask for suggestions, and share your a-ha moments.

The post 26 Inspiring New Ideas for Your Travel Blog Content appeared first on The Travel Copywriter.

No more teasing, no more waiting: you’ve made it! Over the past few months, you’ve fleshed pendik escort out your travel personas; developed your hotel or travel content strategy; chosen the best travel content delivery channels; run an audit on your current content; and had a look at some exceptional examples of travel content marketing. You’ve been patient (thanks for that!) and now it’s finally time.

Yes, it’s now time to create compelling, actionable travel content. It’s time to use your words to paint vivid mental pictures with brushstrokes so bold, they’re almost fluorescent. And it’s time to leverage the principles of travel copywriting to guide your site visitors to click, to sign up, to book, to call – whatever it is you want travelers to do, it’s time to get them doing it.

But before I release you into the writing wilds, I’ll leave you with this travel content marketing checklist – 11 essential elements to include in every piece of your content marketing:

Travel Content Marketing Checklist: 11 Essential Elements

#1: Write Well

In all the do this and do that of content marketing, we hear a lot avcılar escort about calls-to-action, social sharing, and even quality content. But what you rarely read about is şişli escort quality writing. (More on those below.) In travel, it’s not enough to merely share good information: you must write well. Bring your destination to life with your words. Put your readers in the moment. Create gaziantep escort bayan a picture so striking, so completely irresistible, that anyone who reads your words will be convinced – convinced that you are the one, the only answer to the question, “Where should I travel next?”

#2: Pinpoint Your Target Persona

Your content strategy may target more than one travel persona, but each individual marketing piece – each blog post, each travel guide, each newsletter article –  should target just one. Before you write one word, choose your target persona and then write for avcılar escort that, and only that traveler.

#3: Define Your Goal

You should have a specific goal for all your content. Perhaps you want people to sign up for your email list; maybe you want travelers to download an itinerary; or you might want them to click the darn book button already. Whatever your goal, define it clearly before you begin writing a blog post, a newsletter article, or a travel guide. Remember: your end game will define what you write and how you write it. taksim escort
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#4: Insert a Call-to-Action

And speaking of your goal, all content should have a call-to-action (CTA) that guides visitors to fulfill the goal of your content.

#5: Add Internal Links

Link to other blog posts, guides and content on your website – and choose your anchor text (linked words) wisely; the best anchor text is natural (read: not strange phrasing written for the search engines) while incorporating targeted keywords and phrases.

#6: Choose Incredible Photos

Content is better with images, so always add one (or a few) to your blog posts, newsletters, guides and other content.

#7: Forget the Hard Sell

Never, ever forget that your content isn’t about you: it’s about travelers. We live in the sharing economy, and travel content marketing is all about sharing the best of your destination, your hotel, your offerings – but in a natural way.

#8: Boost the Quality

Strategize everything you write to be high-quality. Don’t just parrot what others have already said: pioneer. Write something that hasn’t been written, or improve on something that has already been written a thousand different ways. And after you’ve written something, go beyond simple edits: ask yourself how you can make your piece an even better resource for travelers.

#9: Run the AIDA Test

AIDA is a time-tested copywriting formula; it’s acronym stands for Attention, Interest, Desire, Action. You don’t have to become a top-notch copywriter to do content marketing right, but it is a good idea to keep AIDA in mind as you write. Your headline, your introductory paragraph, your content and your CTA should all pass the AIDA test.

#10: Optimize Your Content

For blog posts, travel guides and other content that lives on the web, be sure to do some basic search engine optimization (SEO): choose your keywords and key phrases wisely, and write optimized titles and meta descriptions. Then get started on check point #8, so other websites will link to your content (backlinks are one of today’s most important factors in boosting your search engine rankings).

#11: Share, Share and Share Again

Content marketing is no Field of Dreams: even if you build it, they won’t necessarily come. You must spread your content across the interwebs – share on Twitter, post on Facebook, add to LinkedIn. You should comment on popular related blogs, especially those that show comment love (share your latest blog post with your comment). Participate on related forums. Leverage your email list, and share new blog posts, latest news, and other tidbits as they come. Build relationships with bloggers, media, and travelers. Wash, rinse, repeat. Never stop.

And that’s all, folks! You’re ready to write targeted content that gets shares, builds loyalty, instills trust, and drives bookings. Good luck, and please let me know how it goes!

Other installments in The Zen of Travel Content Marketing series:

Part 1: Get to Know Your Target Audience
Part 2: Define Your Travel or Hotel Content Strategy
Part 3: Choosing Your Content Channels
Part 4: Run a Content Audit
Part 5: 9 Examples of Exceptional (but Doable) Travel & Hotel Content Marketing

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The post The Zen of Travel Content Marketing, Part 6: 11 Essential Elements of Travel Content Marketing appeared first on The Travel Copywriter.

They say imitation is the greatest form of flattery. And while I wouldn’t recommend copying or duplicating your favorite travel content marketing, you can certainly take inspiration from others. After all, travelers like what they like: they click and share and follow for epic photos and awesome checklists and free content so good, they probably would have paid for it. (Stuck for inspiration? Here are 26 travel content ideas to get your creative juices flowing.)

Because here’s the secret: content marketing isn’t magic. It isn’t taksim escort as hard to understand as SEO. And it certainly isn’t new: companies have been using content to market themselves for more than a century. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel; you just have to decorate the wheel with your own brand of creativity.

One of the best parts of my job is digging up sparkling gems of content marketing from around the globe. In Part 3 we discussed travel content channels, so I thought I’d showcase some of my personal favorites in travel blogging, free guides, and downloadable ebooks. These companies are kicking butt and taking names. Call them my content marketing crushes.

And did I mention I saved the best part part for last: scale. The following aren’t examples of pricey, over-complicated campaigns that require a team of marketers, writers, designers and publishers. No; this is simple, effective travel content marketing mecidiyeköy escort that you can replicate – in your own way, of course – for under $1,000 a month. So get started on getting inspired – and please share your favorites in the comments!

Travel Blogging

Oyster Hotels

Oyster Hotels [disclosure: a client of mine] publishes one of the most enjoyable travel blogs out there. Equal doses inspiration and fantasy – think Caribbean locales without Caribbean crowds and cozy mountain lodges halkalı escort for your last winter hurrah  – infuse fun into reading about beautiful places and incredible things. And if you’ve always wondered how to weave your product into your blog without being too self-serving, have a look: Oyster always manages to link at least one of their hotel or destination offerings. But it’s helpful, not pushy – just as it should be.

The Standard

The Standard, a group of boutique hotels, has really taken content marketing to the next level: community. Their Standard Culture blog is a place for Standard guests and area locals – there are hotels in New York, L.A. and Miami – to voice their love of the city, celebrate modern tastes, and buzz about culture. The blog features vibrant photography, traveler contributions, and original features, plus hotel-centered kartal escort content like upcoming events and a look behind the Standard curtain.

Guomon Hotels Blog

Maybe it’s because I love London – fine, I’m obsessed – but the Guoman Hotels blog really draws me in. Their posts are a lovely blend of London-themed posts, like Secrets From London’s Foodies, and English culture (how cute is their post on Dickens at Christmas: A Walking Map of London?). What I particularly love is that the blog is completely approachable – you can do this, no joke. Just post, one week at a time. bahçeşehir escort

Free Travel Guides

Tennessee Vacation

I simply cannot get enough of Tennessee Vacation, the state’s official trip-planning website. If you’ve never visited, prepare yourself: the site features beautiful design, interactive features, and a boatload of content. And by boatload, I mean an entire pirate ship full of treasure. Go ahead and mouse over their Things to Do tab and choose your favorite; it’s like disappearing down a rabbit hole of content so good, you can’t help but explore, plan and daydream until you drop.

Costa Rican Vacations

Costa Rican Vacations [disclosure: a client of mine] is one of my absolute favorite examples of content marketing done right. Though small (less than 50 employees), CRV sees the value in content and dedicates time and resources to creating truly awesome and fact-filled info for Costa Rican vacationers. Take their newly refreshed Costa Rica travel guide, which covers topics from destinations to packing tips, written by people who know and love Costa Rica.

Airbnb

Airbnb’s Neighborhood guides are a pretty spectacular blend of local knowledge, sparkling photography, and real-life quotes from past visitors – not to mention, helpful links to rooms and homes for rent in each neighborhood. Oh yeah, and a call-to-action encouraging neighborhood gurus to contribute their own knowledge to the guide. It’s an informative, interactive and well-integrated approach to free travel guides.

Travel eBooks

Hong Kong Tourism Board

Tourism Boards are really good at free eBooks, and Hong Kong does a great job of it. They offer all their downloads in easy pdf format, and the guides cover a wide range of topics, like the Best of Culinary Rewards and a Guide to Family Fun. They also have more general guides to Hong Kong, but those targeted niche guides are where the money’s at.

Visit Florida

Say what? Visit Florida has it going on – big time! I absolutely love their free Florida travel guides that cover a range of traveler interests – think hiking, biking and LGBT travel – all in downloadable eBook format. And while yes, they’re a big state tourism board, no, this is not something that you can’t do, too. All it takes is some creativity, writing chops, and maybe a few hours of quality design (or familiarity with your favorite publishing software). My suggestion: offer your eBooks in exchange for an email address.

Visit Iceland

Did you know that brochures, done right, can be repackaged as downloadable guides/eBooks? Take Visit Iceland’s beautiful brochure, which has an eye-catching mix of spectacular photography and introductory information – real, helpful and non-promotional content – to Iceland. I love the Top 5’s peppered throughout, and I’ll bet Iceland tourists do, too. (Bonus points to Visit Iceland for providing downloads for different dialects, like British vs. U.S. English!)

So there are a few of my favorites. What are the best examples of travel content marketing you’ve ever come across? 

Other installments in The Zen of Travel Content Marketing series:

Part 1: Get to Know Your Target Audience
Part 2: Define Your Travel or Hotel Content Strategy
Part 3: Choosing Your Content Channels
Part 4: Run a Content Audit

The post The Zen of Travel Content Marketing, Part 5: 9 Examples of Exceptional (but Doable) Travel & Hotel Content Marketing appeared first on The Travel Copywriter.

Today’s roundup is incredibly inspiring – info-rich, actionable posts you can really sink your teeth into.

But that’s my opinion. I’d love to hear from you. What kind of inspiration is most helpful for you? What kind of content do you want to read in these roundups? What are you favorite blogs for travel & hotel marketing, copywriting, and social media? Let me know, fatih escort and I’ll scour the the nets every other week in search of what you want to read most.

So seriously, please hop on down to the comments and fill me in: What do you most want to read in these weekly roundups?

Do You Understand These Digital Marketing Acronyms?

Do you know the difference between a CMS and your CTR? Or how CPC is related to PPC? You may not be familiar with the acronyms, but you’re hopefully familiar with the terms: content management systems, pay-per-click, retweets, and more. Hop on over the Blue Magnet for Michelle Laing’s post on the acronyms and terminology every travel marketer should know and understand.

How to Spend the Big Bucks – or Just $100 – on Facebook Ads

Are you advertising on Facebook? If it’s something you’re considering, Noah Kagan has some great insight on where and how to spend your first $100. Considering he’s spent $2+ million buying Facebook ads – and riding their success – this is some solid advice for anyone looking to get their fındıkzade escort toes wet advertising on the web’s largest social network.

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16 Content Marketing Campaigns That Are Getting it Right

A little inspiration can go a long way. You know you need travel content marketing, but if you’ve ever struggled with ideation, creation or implementation, Econsultancy’s Chris Lake has a whole list of companies that are doing it not only right, but well.

How to Beat the Odds of 81% Booking Abandonment

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What do the right email subject line, the right content and the right time have in common? They can help you beat the industry standard of 81% guest abandonment rate at the time of booking (holy say whaaaat?!). Email marketing is one of the most effective sales methods, but it’s important to do it right – starting with that subject line, content and the time you click send.

4 Important Takeaways from Google’s “The 2013 Traveler” Study

Did you know that 42% of leisure travelers and 55% of business travelers read reviews before booking? Or that 25% of travelers book hotel rooms on their smartphones? No? Then you should check out Google’s “The 2013 Traveler” study or, in the absence of time, at least give a thorough read through Hospitalitynet’s insightful takeaways. gaziantep escort

How to Contract Out Dynamite Content Creation

Call me biased, but as a travel content marketer I believe that a professional writer can add a lot to your company’s content campaign. Moz’s Mackenzie Fogelson offers up an excellent guide to hiring an expert blogger, creating efficient and scalable content, and working together to create strong deliverables that propel your business, boost conversions, and drive bookings.

The post Travel Copywriting & Tourism Marketing Roundup (March 6) appeared first on The Travel Copywriter.