Podcasts Archive - Travel Alliance Partnership https://travelalliancepartnership.com/podcasts/ We are a leader in the tourism industry Wed, 30 Oct 2024 03:40:54 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://travelalliancepartnership.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Podcasts Archive - Travel Alliance Partnership https://travelalliancepartnership.com/podcasts/ 32 32 Building Success through Bravery and Flexibility, with Rosa Harris https://travelalliancepartnership.com/podcasts/rosa-harris/ Wed, 30 Oct 2024 09:00:02 +0000 https://travelalliancepartnership.com/?post_type=digi_podcast&p=7249 On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Rosa Harris, Director of Tourism for the Cayman Islands, about the importance of being open, flexible, and courageous as a travel professional. We talk about knowing who you are as a destination, being true to your strengths, and why honoring history, culture, and people…

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]]> On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Rosa Harris, Director of Tourism for the Cayman Islands, about the importance of being open, flexible, and courageous as a travel professional. We talk about knowing who you are as a destination, being true to your strengths, and why honoring history, culture, and people is a must for tourism leaders. Rosa also shares examples of several Cayman Island campaigns and how her tourism brand partners with lifestyle brands.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

  • How the “Dream in Cayman” campaign aims to stand out in the Caribbean market to attract the family market’s interest
  • Partnerships the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism is involved in including collaborations with luxury brands like Saks Fifth Avenue and influencers like Mei Mei
  • Why agile and flexible leadership is important as a leader in the tourism industry
  • Why the Cayman Islands is focusing on becoming the go-to destination for luxury experiences in the Caribbean.
  • How community involvement contributes to authentic cultural experiences and effective marketing strategies for the Cayman Islands.

Showcasing Authentic Cultural Heritage

An integral part of distinguishing the Cayman Islands is its commitment to offering tourists an authentic cultural experience. Rosa shares details of the collaborations with local artisans and highlights initiatives like the Caymankind campaign, which embodies the warm and welcoming hospitality of the Cayman people.

Rosa and her team held town halls to invite public input, helping ensure the community’s voice was clearly heard in branding efforts. Local tourism operators also played a pivotal role by having conversations with visitors. These initiatives ensured that the brand promise aligned seamlessly with the actual visitor experience, creating a cultural connection that left a lasting impression.

Strengthening Community and Collaboration

Rosa highlights her role with the Caribbean Tourism Organization, focusing on coopetition and shares examples such as partnership with the aviation committee, working towards enhancing travel options within the Caribbean to promote multi-destination travel. This boosts tourist experiences but also extends visitors’ stays in the Caribbean.

Rosa also introduces the “Dream in Cayman” campaign, an initiative that aims to help the Cayman Islands stand out among Caribbean destinations with nature imagery. In a crowded market commonly showcasing sun, sand, and sea imagery, the Cayman Islands are carving a niche with unique, eye-catching campaigns. Targeted primarily at the family market, the campaign’s objective is to evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity, drawing attention to the Cayman Islands as a luxurious yet intriguing destination.

Future-Proofing Through Creative Partnerships

Looking ahead, Rosa discussed exciting partnerships to further enhance the Cayman Islands’ appeal. A significant collaboration with Saks Fifth Avenue during New York Fashion Week will feature Cayman Islands-themed window displays, showcasing the destination’s unique charm to a broad audience. Meanwhile, a partnership with Gen Z influencer Mei Mei will capture authentic Cayman experiences via TikTok, engaging a younger audience through contemporary social media platforms.

Resources:

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]]> Preserving Legacy and Building Connections, with Colleen Onuffer https://travelalliancepartnership.com/podcasts/colleen-onuffer-02/ Wed, 23 Oct 2024 09:00:27 +0000 https://travelalliancepartnership.com/?post_type=digi_podcast&p=7213 On this episode of Destination on the Left, I’m thrilled to dive into an inspiring conversation that perfectly embodies our brand promise—”impact through connection, community, and collaboration.” We’re exploring the transformative power of strategic planning and emotional connections in the travel and tourism industry with Colleen Onuffer, the Director of Public Relations for Travel Alliance…

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]]> On this episode of Destination on the Left, I’m thrilled to dive into an inspiring conversation that perfectly embodies our brand promise—”impact through connection, community, and collaboration.” We’re exploring the transformative power of strategic planning and emotional connections in the travel and tourism industry with Colleen Onuffer, the Director of Public Relations for Travel Alliance Partnership.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

  • Why we rebranded to Travel Alliance Partnership
  • How we create impact through connection, community, and collaboration
  • More about Colleen’s presentation at the New York State Tourism Industry Association annual meeting
  • How TAP collaborated in creating a fam tour exploring Harriet Tubman’s legacy in Cayuga County
  • The concept of “cathedral thinking” for long-term projects
  • Impact of emotional resonance on event success and strategic planning

A Collaboration Case Study

Colleen Onuffer, Director of Public Relations for Travel Alliance Partnership, shares a Travel Alliance Partnership case study on creating emotionally resonant, memorable experiences for travelers. She shares how TAP lives their value to create impact through connection, community, and collaboration when working with destinations. By focusing on emotional resonance, authentic community engagement, and long-term strategic planning, tourism professionals can create memorable experiences that leave lasting impacts.

When planning media trips, Colleen emphasizes the importance of creating experiences that resonate on a personal level rather than strictly adhering to historical facts. This approach aims to make the stories more meaningful and relatable. Media members were encouraged to find personal connections to Harriet Tubman’s legacy at an event honoring International Underground Railroad Month in Cayuga County. This strategy profoundly impacted attendees, fostering a deeper appreciation of the site’s historical significance.

Key Strategies for Planning Memorable Events

Organizing an event that leaves a lasting impression requires careful consideration of multiple factors. The event in Cayuga County, focusing on Harriet Tubman’s legacy, was a perfect example. Attendees experienced a driving tour of Underground Railroad stops, met with Tubman’s descendants, and engaged with local black-owned businesses. Such thoughtful planning ensured that participants learned about history and felt its emotional weight and relevance today.

Community engagement was a cornerstone of the Cayuga County event. The involvement of local leaders, business owners, and Tubman’s relatives forged a genuine connection between the media members and the community. This collaborative spirit enriched the event and promoted future media relationships, ensuring that Tubman’s legacy continues to be celebrated and preserved.

Feedback and Its Role in Shaping Future Strategies

Event attendees’ feedback highlighted the Cayuga County trip’s emotional resonance and transformative impact. Testimonials revealed some amazingly memorable experiences and how people connected to African American history. This invaluable feedback guided future event planning, emphasizing the significance of emotional ties and engaging storytelling in conveying a destination’s essence and personality.

We also discussed the concept of “cathedral thinking,” which involves planning long-term projects designed to create lasting impacts. Just as medieval cathedrals were built to outlast their creators, the initiatives led by Travel Alliance Partnership aim to transform destinations sustainably rather than being a flash in the pan.

Resources:

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]]> Event Hosting and Tourism Success in Small Destinations, with Todd Read https://travelalliancepartnership.com/podcasts/todd-read/ Wed, 16 Oct 2024 09:00:30 +0000 https://travelalliancepartnership.com/?post_type=digi_podcast&p=7177 On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Todd Read, Senior Tourism Manager at SoIN Tourism, who shares more about the importance of building relationships for professional growth. Todd discusses the challenges SoIN has faced and how they have overcome them by creating strong partnerships. We also talk about hosting a travel…

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]]> On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Todd Read, Senior Tourism Manager at SoIN Tourism, who shares more about the importance of building relationships for professional growth. Todd discusses the challenges SoIN has faced and how they have overcome them by creating strong partnerships. We also talk about hosting a travel conference in a small destination, what you should consider, and how to pull it off.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

  • How Todd Read and his team managed to successfully host the TAP Dance event in a small destination and overcome logistical challenges
  • Why local businesses and stakeholders became more invested in event hosting after the success of TAP Dance and the potential impact on tourism
  • What the Indiana Foodways Alliance is and how it supports over 300 local non-corporate restaurants across 21 culinary trails
  • How the rebranding from Sunny Side of Louisville to SoIN was strategically executed to establish a unique identity for Southern Indiana
  • Why collaboration and building networks within the tourism industry are crucial for personal and professional growth

The Potential of Small Destinations in Event Hosting

Todd shares the transformative impact of hosting the TAP Dance event on the local community. The initial response to the TAP Dance event was overwhelmingly positive, and the community saw firsthand how well-executed events could boost tourism and economic activity. This realization translated into increased support and enthusiasm for hosting more events in the future.

Hosting events in state parks or historic sites often comes with stringent restrictions, such as limitations on serving alcohol. Todd and his team successfully navigated and managed these logistics, demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of such events, thus paving the way for more flexible regulations in the future.

The Importance of Collaboration and Community Support

Todd talks more about the critical role of collaboration and support from all stakeholders and how his executive director and team were instrumental in the success of the TAP Dance event. SoIN’s partnership with organizations like the Travel Alliance Partnership and the Indiana Foodways Alliance also shows how collaborative efforts can really boost a region’s tourist appeal. Todd discusses the Indiana Foodways Alliance and its efforts to promote local, non-corporate restaurants through culinary trails. With over 300 participating establishments and 21 unique trails, such as “Winner Winner Chicken Dinner” and the “Pork Tenderloin Trail,” the Alliance supports and showcases the state’s amazing culinary offerings.

Addressing Challenges and Embracing Resilience

From the negative impact of COVID-19 to the controversies surrounding the Religious Freedom and Restoration Act (RFRA) in Indiana, SoIN’s resilience and willingness to innovate have been key to successfully overcoming these challenges.

Southern Indiana’s rebranding from the Sunny Side of Louisville to SoIN in 2016 is a testament to creative problem-solving in response to being overshadowed by popular neighboring destinations. The new brand, SoIN, not only differentiated the region but also generated a strong sense of community identity and recognition.

Despite funding cuts post-COVID, Todd and his colleagues managed to maintain momentum through collaborations with other tourism leaders. Initiatives like “Tour on 64,” aimed at highlighting attractions along Interstate 64, demonstrate the power of regional coopetition in sustaining tourism marketing efforts.

Resources:

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]]> Building Strong Industry Partnerships in the Travel and Tourism Industry, with Kristi Gole https://travelalliancepartnership.com/podcasts/kristi-gole/ Wed, 09 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000 https://travelalliancepartnership.com/?post_type=digi_podcast&p=7090 On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Kristi Gole, EVP of Strategy at Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), about the importance of collaboration and how the alliance helps these hotels compete against the world’s largest brands. Kristi shares examples of brand partnerships that GHA’s loyalty program has allowed them to start with…

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]]> On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Kristi Gole, EVP of Strategy at Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), about the importance of collaboration and how the alliance helps these hotels compete against the world’s largest brands. Kristi shares examples of brand partnerships that GHA’s loyalty program has allowed them to start with complementary luxury brands, and she gives us a great formula for evaluating partnership opportunities.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

  • How GHA became the largest alliance of independent hotel brands and the benefits this provides to its members.
  • Why the GHA Discovery loyalty program was transformed into “Discovery Dollars” and how this new approach is more rewarding for members.
  • What strategies GHA uses to attract high-net-worth customers and enhance customer engagement.
  • How the collaborative environment within GHA helps independent hotel brands compete globally, share best practices, and grow.
  • Why Kristi values deep relationships over standard partnerships and how aligning with like-minded partners can lead to successful collaborations.
  • What key technological and operational challenges GHA faced, and how ensuring tech compatibility is crucial for a seamless customer experience.

A Collective Strength in Hospitality

Formed in 2004, GHA’s mission is to aid independent hotels in competing globally against large hotel chains. Today, it’s the largest alliance of independent hotel brands, comprising 40 brands and 800 hotels across 100 countries. This alliance offers a collaborative platform for these brands to share resources, best practices, and cross-promote services.

The alliance provides tools and platforms for independent hotels to remain authentic while benefiting from a larger network. This unique value proposition has enabled GHA member hotels to retain their independence and character while being part of a valuable global support system.

How Strategic Partnerships Elevate the Customer Experience

A core aspect of GHA’s strategy is building deep, strategic partnerships that enhance customer offerings. The collaboration with Regent Seven Seas Cruises, for example, attracts high-net-worth customers by offering Discovery Dollars usable at hotels. Launched publicly in 2010, the GHA Discovery loyalty program was designed to provide customer value, encourage cross-promotion, and increase bookings through profitable channels.

In 2021, GHA revamped the loyalty program into “Discovery 2.0,” transitioning from a points-based system to a cash-back model called “Discovery Dollars.” This shift aimed to make rewards more accessible and appealing to a broader audience.

Scaling and Innovating for the Future

GHA plans to continue expanding and iterating on the Discovery Dollar currency. With a goal of reaching 100 million members, the focus remains on signing new brands and growing their partnership network. Kristi emphasized the importance of aligning with partners with a similar mindset and targeting the same luxury segment. She shares why GHA looks for partners who are agile, entrepreneurial, and approachable.

Resources:

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]]> The Evolution of the Travel Advisor, with James R. Ferrara https://travelalliancepartnership.com/podcasts/james-r-ferrara/ Wed, 02 Oct 2024 09:00:14 +0000 https://travelalliancepartnership.com/?post_type=digi_podcast&p=7077 On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with James R. Ferrara, Co-Founder & President of InteleTravel, about how the business navigated the pandemic, adapted to the shifting preferences of younger travelers, and strategically expanded their services. James also shares more about the company’s commitment to promoting mindful and sustainable travel practices and…

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]]> On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with James R. Ferrara, Co-Founder & President of InteleTravel, about how the business navigated the pandemic, adapted to the shifting preferences of younger travelers, and strategically expanded their services. James also shares more about the company’s commitment to promoting mindful and sustainable travel practices and why travel advisors should encourage their clients to explore lesser-known destinations.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

  • How Inteletravel’s educational programs and supplier partnerships support the professional development of their advisors
  • Why travel priorities have shifted, especially among younger generations, and their increased use of travel advisors
  • Inteletravel’s strategic acquisitions to expand their services and earning potential for advisors
  • The importance of industry collaboration, even among competitors, to address legislative challenges and support professional development
  • Why Inteletravel focuses on promoting mindful and sustainable travel experiences
  • How Inteletravel advisors guide clients towards less-crowded and unique travel destinations

The Evolution of the Travel Advisor

The role of the travel advisor has undergone a remarkable transformation, and on the show, James Ferrara, the President of Inteletravel, shares his insights on this evolution. He explains that the company’s independent contractor model, pioneered in the early 90s, has evolved from a predominantly part-time role to a more entrepreneurial full-time business.

James credits Inteletravel’s success to an unwavering commitment to education and professional development. He details the company’s robust training programs, supplier partnerships, and annual conventions, which equip their 120,000 independent contractors with the tools and knowledge to thrive in the industry.

Navigating the Pandemic and the Boom in Travel

The travel industry has faced its fair share of challenges in recent years, but Inteletravel made a quick recovery from the pandemic. James credits its innovative management team and its travel advisors’ focus on building on existing relationships.

We discuss the “revenge travel” phenomenon and the shift in travel priorities, particularly among younger generations. James notes that we’re seeing huge growth in Gen Y and Gen Z travelers, and this demographic shift has fueled a renewed appreciation for the value that travel advisors can provide as younger travelers seek out personalized guidance and expertise.

Promoting Mindful and Sustainable Travel

James emphasizes the importance of responsible and sustainable travel practices as the travel industry evolves. He talks about the “No Tourists Allowed” podcast, where he and his co-host explore ways to travel more mindfully and promote unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations. We dig into why it’s also better for the customers’ experience to get them out of these overcrowded tourism centers worldwide.

By encouraging travel advisors to guide clients towards lesser-known destinations and experiences, Inteletravel is actively working to mitigate the impact of over-tourism and foster a more sustainable travel ecosystem.

Resources:

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]]> How AI Can Improve Traveler Experience, with Anna Jaffe https://travelalliancepartnership.com/podcasts/anna-jaffe/ Wed, 25 Sep 2024 09:00:03 +0000 https://travelalliancepartnership.com/?post_type=digi_podcast&p=7016 Anna elaborates on how the integration of AI can be transformative for businesses in the travel industry. AI is another tool in your toolbox, and each tool, whether it’s a simple hammer or a sophisticated AI algorithm, has a particular purpose. The collaboration between humans and AI enables tour operators, DMOs, and travel agents to…

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]]> Anna elaborates on how the integration of AI can be transformative for businesses in the travel industry. AI is another tool in your toolbox, and each tool, whether it’s a simple hammer or a sophisticated AI algorithm, has a particular purpose. The collaboration between humans and AI enables tour operators, DMOs, and travel agents to enhance and personalize customer experiences.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

  • What inspired Anna’s focus on human and AI collaboration to solve complex travel industry challenges
  • How AI-driven search can enhance user experience by providing personalized travel details
  • How smaller brands and companies in the travel sector can also benefit significantly from implementing AI technology
  • What Mobi can do for travel businesses, from custom development to ready-to-go products
  • How Anna’s experiences have shaped her approach to customer engagement and technology integration

Tailoring AI for the Travel Industry

One of the standout applications of AI in travel is providing highly personalized travel recommendations. With AI-driven search capabilities, users can ask detailed, nuanced questions in natural language and receive tailor-made responses. Using AI allows travel agents to deliver gold-standard service by giving them comprehensive, instant knowledge about destinations that cater to their travelers’ particular needs.

Anna explains how AI tools allow you to automate various service tasks to ensure smooth and efficient operations—including making dynamic changes such as reallocating resources in response to travel disruptions to give your clients the best experience possible even when things aren’t quite going to plan.

How AI Can Work for Smaller Tour Operators

AI can revolutionize small travel brands’ operations by providing personalized, scalable solutions that were previously only accessible to larger companies with significant resources. These AI-powered tools can help smaller operators manage bookings, optimize travel itineraries, and offer tailored experiences to customers.

By implementing AI-driven intent-driven search capabilities, smaller tour operators can provide a user-friendly experience that intuitively answers customer queries in a natural, conversational manner, dramatically increasing customer satisfaction and engagement. This allows operators to offer recommendations tailored to individual needs, such as suggesting local attractions, dining options, or accommodations that align with a traveler’s interests.

Future Proofing and Collaboration

Anna elaborates on how the integration of AI can be transformative for businesses in the travel industry. AI is another tool in your toolbox, and each tool, whether it’s a simple hammer or a sophisticated AI algorithm, has a particular purpose. The collaboration between humans and AI enables tour operators, DMOs, and travel agents to enhance and personalize customer experiences.

Resources:

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]]> Creating Immersive Travel Experiences by Rail, with Liz Owens https://travelalliancepartnership.com/podcasts/liz-owens/ Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:00:44 +0000 https://travelalliancepartnership.com/?post_type=digi_podcast&p=7005 On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Liz Owens, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Vacations by Rail, who joins me to discuss the trends driving interest in rail experiences, such as slow travel, sustainability, and experiential travel. We also discuss the unique focus of Vacations by Rail, from escorted…

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]]> On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Liz Owens, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Vacations by Rail, who joins me to discuss the trends driving interest in rail experiences, such as slow travel, sustainability, and experiential travel. We also discuss the unique focus of Vacations by Rail, from escorted rail travel to independent itineraries and river cruises.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

  • Why Vacations by Rail is focusing on multi-country tours to give U.S. consumers more immersive experiences
  • The importance of learning from other industries, particularly consumer retail, and introducing consumer concepts into the travel world
  • The company’s approach to direct-to-consumer sales through a call center and the significance of loyal travel agents in their sales
  • Why off-peak travel provides unique opportunities for more personalized and less crowded experiences
  • Exciting experiences coming down the pipeline, including winter tours of Alaska and immersive experiences in Europe

Revolutionizing Rail Travel

Rail travel is more than just a means of transportation; it is an experience that offers travelers a unique perspective of the world. On the podcast, Liz shares why the slow travel movement is gaining traction, with more travelers seeking to immerse themselves fully in their journeys rather than rushing from one destination to the next.

To provide U.S. travelers with truly immersive experiences, Vacations by Rail focuses on multi-country tours that allow people to explore the cultural and natural landscapes of Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. These tours are designed to offer more than just a visit to various locations; they aim to create long-lasting memories through well-curated, in-depth experiences.

Promoting Sustainability Through Rail Travel

Sustainability in travel is increasingly important, and rail journeys are inherently more eco-friendly compared to other modes of travel. Liz shares how rail travel supports economic and community sustainability, particularly in small towns and communities along the routes. This sustainable practice not only reduces environmental impacts but also boosts local economies.

Collaboration Opportunities

Collaboration is at the heart of Vacations by Rail’s strategy, especially after its acquisition by Great Rail Journeys in 2019. This partnership has maximized expertise from different markets and fostered a collaborative environment where teams can innovate and share best practices. Liz also discusses the continued importance of networking and building relationships within the travel industry to drive creative change and growth.

Resources:

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]]> The Essential Role of Authentic Storytelling in Sustainable Tourism, with Rob Holmes https://travelalliancepartnership.com/podcasts/rob-holmes/ Wed, 11 Sep 2024 09:00:20 +0000 https://travelalliancepartnership.com/?post_type=digi_podcast&p=6956 On this episode of Destination on the Left, Rob Holmes, Founder of GLP Films shares his experience and insights on sustainable tourism. We discuss how you can impact sustainability through storytelling, and Rob shares several components of storytelling and why it must focus on people at the ground level and be story-driven, not sales-driven. What…

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]]> On this episode of Destination on the Left, Rob Holmes, Founder of GLP Films shares his experience and insights on sustainable tourism. We discuss how you can impact sustainability through storytelling, and Rob shares several components of storytelling and why it must focus on people at the ground level and be story-driven, not sales-driven.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

  • Why storytelling and sustainability are integral to the tourism industry
  • What strategic approach Rob uses for authentic and engaging storytelling in destination marketing
  • How sustainability has evolved as a term and its significance in tourism
  • Why targeting responsible travelers through storytelling can make a meaningful impact on sustaining a place
  • Some of the sustainable travel campaigns Rob’s team has worked on, including sustainability in the Finger Lakes Region, and rewilding in Chile
  • How education in sustainability and involving various stakeholders are crucial for the industry’s success

How the Tourism Sector Can Thrive with Sustainability and Meaningful Narratives

We discuss the concept of rewilding—integrating natural, wild elements back into ecosystems, and how incorporating conservation and biodiversity into a destination enriches not just the environment but increases the opportunities for visitors. Rob digs into how the tourism industry can tap into nature-focused tourism, make environmental gains, and improve economic resilience by adopting greener practices.

The Power of Storytelling in Tourism

We go deep into the significance of compelling storytelling. Rob shares why purpose, story arc, characters, and landscape are some of the key components of a great story, whether it’s in a film or a marketing campaign. He describes why authenticity is pivotal and why he believes that stories driven by passion—rather than sales and marketing objectives—enhances sustainable tourism initiatives.

Sharing memorable and emotionally resonant stories does more than attract tourists; it fosters a deeper connection to the destination and its people. When crafted well, these stories invigorate both local charm and environmental consciousness, leading to lasting impressions and repeat visitors.

Real-world Applications

Rob leaves us with actionable insights learned from several campaigns his company has spearheaded. In the Finger Lakes region, a two-year campaign aims to reposition this destination as a sustainable outdoor recreation hotspot. By highlighting local culture and nature-centric activities, the campaign seeks to draw responsible outdoor travelers.

Another campaign in Chile promotes community tourism, encouraging travelers to immerse themselves in local life and support the community economically. Rob’s examples underscore how targeted, authentic storytelling can drive sustainable tourism while benefiting the local community.

Resources:

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]]> Elevating Travel Marketing through Out-of-Home Advertising, with Frederick Strebeck https://travelalliancepartnership.com/podcasts/frederick-strebeck/ Wed, 04 Sep 2024 09:00:23 +0000 https://travelalliancepartnership.com/?post_type=digi_podcast&p=6928 On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Freddie Strebeck, VP of Client Partnerships at EMC Outdoor, all about how travel and tourism brands can use traditional, lifestyle, and experiential out-of-home advertising to improve their marketing campaign outcomes. We also discuss Freddie’s successes, including his work with Visit Seattle and Montgomery County’s…

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]]> On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Freddie Strebeck, VP of Client Partnerships at EMC Outdoor, all about how travel and tourism brands can use traditional, lifestyle, and experiential out-of-home advertising to improve their marketing campaign outcomes. We also discuss Freddie’s successes, including his work with Visit Seattle and Montgomery County’s creative Date Night in Montco campaign.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

  • How Freddie and his team used a branded treat truck to deliver a taste of Seattle to feeder cities such as Sacramento, Dallas, and Minneapolis for Visit Seattle’s I Know a Place campaign
  • Why planning collaborations in advance and integrating out-of-home marketing effectively is crucial for amplifying a campaign’s message
  • What out-of-home channels are and the importance of selecting the right channel for a positive business impact for clients
  • Why out-of-home advertising is an important amplification tactic, especially in reaching audiences outside of their homes in a non-intrusive way
  • What role artificial intelligence plays in the out-of-home industry, and its potential to improve overall campaign efficiency

The Power of Out-of-Home Advertising

Freddie Strebeck, VP of Client Partnerships at EMC Outdoor, and I dig into some ways his team has creatively used out-of-home advertising in the travel and tourism industry. He shares details of a campaign involving a branded tree truck for Visit Seattle that targeted feeder cities like Dallas, Minneapolis, and Sacramento.

The campaign demonstrated the power of creativity and strategic collaboration by partnering with local businesses, such as an ice cream shop, and earning a spot on Good Morning Sacramento. Freddie emphasizes that pre-planned collaborations are vital to integrating out-of-home marketing effectively and standing out from competitors.

Adapting to a Post-Pandemic World

We chatted about how the COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped out-of-home advertising strategies. Freddie explains EMC Outdoor’s adaptive measures, such as focusing on contextually relevant advertising locations and refining client messaging. Freddie discusses the enduring relevance of out-of-home advertising, particularly in today’s hybrid lifestyle, where people toggle between home and traditional work environments. Freddie also describes why out-of-home is a non-intrusive yet potent way to amplify your brand beyond digital channels

Next Steps for Out-of-Home

We rounded off the show by discussing the future potential of out-of-home advertising, particularly the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance campaign efficiency and creativity. According to Freddie, AI is not just a futuristic concept but a strategic asset that can accelerate the creative process and enhance client deliverables. EMC Outdoor uses AI to show clients how to use out-of-home to stand out in a competitive landscape by creating more personalized and impactful campaigns.

Resources:

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]]> How to Offer an Exceptional Experience on Every Trip, with Rob DelliBovi https://travelalliancepartnership.com/podcasts/rob-dellibovi/ Wed, 28 Aug 2024 09:00:34 +0000 https://travelalliancepartnership.com/?post_type=digi_podcast&p=6886 On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Rob DelliBovi, Owner and CEO at RDB Hospitality Group. He shares his insights on why micromanagement is underrated when it comes to delivering exceptional service because consistency is key. We discuss the strategies Rob’s company uses to provide added value for travelers and suppliers,…

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]]> On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Rob DelliBovi, Owner and CEO at RDB Hospitality Group. He shares his insights on why micromanagement is underrated when it comes to delivering exceptional service because consistency is key. We discuss the strategies Rob’s company uses to provide added value for travelers and suppliers, and Rob shares an amazing example of collaboration in the travel agent world he’s experienced recently.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

  • What strategies Rob’s company, RDB Hospitality, uses to provide added value for travel consumers and suppliers
  • How the travel industry has shifted towards green initiatives, like offering rewards for reduced housekeeping, and why this is important
  • Why micromanagement and direct access to clients is vital in delivering exceptional service in the travel and hospitality industry
  • Collaborations that Rob has been involved with, including his recent experience of rallying travel agents to fight airline initiatives to encourage travelers to book direct
  • Why everyone should use a travel agent rather than rely on online booking sites

Delivering Exceptional Service

I love that at the core of Rob’s philosophy is an unwavering commitment to exceptional service—every time. He discusses why today’s high-end clients are willing to pay a premium for personalized and efficient service they can rely on and how understanding and implementing attention to detail sets RDB Hospitality apart from traditional agencies.

We discuss why focusing on being taken care of and quickly resolving any issues is vital to keeping clients satisfied. Rob adds that the expectation of stellar service is foundational in maintaining client loyalty and promoting repeat business.

Staying Informed in an Ever-Changing Industry

Rob highlights various ways his team keeps abreast of the latest trends and developments, including trade shows, familiarization trips, and webinars, to ensure their customers have the best experience possible. We also discuss how the workforce shortage impacted the hotel experience immediately after the pandemic and why staff shortages are fortunately no longer a problem across most of the travel industry.

The Key to Success

Rob stressed the significance of controlling the travel process to ensure successful outcomes. With so many opportunities for discrepancies that can seriously negatively impact a client’s experience, micromanagement is crucial. He shares the importance of managing every aspect of a client’s journey, from the initial booking to the final check-out.

This control extends to intimately understanding client needs, ensuring that service levels remain high. This dedication to managing operations efficiently and meeting customer expectations is a cornerstone of RDB Hospitality’s success.

Resources:

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