“Vilnius’ Belated Birthday Cards” advertising for Lithuania

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Group of young people taking selfie at a birthday party. Photo by vladans

In this brilliantly innovative advertising campaign, the creators playfully tackle the obscure nature of Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, with a delightfully tongue-in-cheek approach that combines humor, nostalgia, and a sense of adventure. Drawing upon the city’s previous promotional campaigns, which daringly labeled Vilnius as “the g-spot of Europe” and playfully subverted the conventional Christmas carol narrative with the strikingly titled “Christmas in Vilnius: Amazing wherever you think it is,” the minds behind this effort have truly outdone themselves with their latest endeavor. Celebrating the momentous occasion of the city’s 700th anniversary in 2023, the campaign adopts a retro aesthetic that masterfully encapsulates the essence of the 1980s while simultaneously offering a fresh, contemporary twist.

The captivating video, which can be found on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAfZJRbgih0, humorously acknowledges the general public’s lack of awareness regarding Vilnius’ geographical location and historical significance. In doing so, the video presents a novel and engaging solution for commemorating the city’s 700th birthday: a “belated birthday e-card collection” that injects an irresistibly whimsical sense of fun into the proceedings. This inventive approach not only pokes fun at the fact that many people have overlooked Vilnius’ previous 699 birthdays, but also serves as a clever way to bring attention to this captivating city that has, until now, been relatively hidden from the international spotlight.

The video, steeped in nostalgia, walks viewers through a series of entertaining and visually striking cards, each more amusing than the last. The campaign encourages viewers to send their own belated birthday e-cards, thereby creating a sense of personal connection and investment in the celebration of this extraordinary milestone. The video concludes with an uplifting and memorable message, reminding viewers that while they may forget the date of the anniversary itself, the celebration of Vilnius’ rich 700-year history will be an unforgettable experience. The city, in all its vivacity and charm, is described as being “700 years young,” a testament to its enduring spirit and the ever-evolving cultural tapestry that makes it such an exceptional destination. This audacious and remarkable advertising campaign deftly showcases the indomitable character of Vilnius, inviting viewers to join in the festivities and discover the magic that awaits them in this enchanting, often-overlooked European gem.

#Vilnius700; #HiddenEuropeanGem; #BelatedBirthdayCards; #RediscoverVilnius; #VilniusGSpotOfEurope; #CelebrateVilnius; #700YearsYoung; #RetroVilnius; #VilniusAdventures; #UnforgettableVilnius; #DiscoverVilnius; #VilniusAnniversary; #WhimsicalVilnius; #VilniusMilestone; #VilniusUncovered; #InnovativeAdCampaigns; #VilniusRetroRevival; #RememberVilnius; #CulturalTapestryOfVilnius; #IndomitableVilnius

Tourism Innovation: How Technology is Shaping the Future of Travel

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Two girls having fun with vr glasses virtual reality inovation at home or in office. Ph by dvatri

The tourism industry has always been at the forefront of adopting new technology, seeking ways to enhance and streamline the travel experience. As we continue to dive deeper into the digital age, the scope of technological innovation in tourism has expanded exponentially. This article explores some of the latest developments in technology that are shaping the future of travel, offering more personalized, convenient, and immersive experiences for tourists around the world.

  1. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

One of the most significant technological advances in recent years is the integration of VR and AR into the tourism industry. These immersive technologies allow travelers to explore destinations and attractions from the comfort of their homes, offering a new way to research and plan trips (Guttentag, 2010). VR and AR are also transforming on-site experiences, with attractions and museums providing visitors with interactive and educational content through the use of smart glasses and mobile devices (Yung & Khoo-Lattimore, 2019).

  1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

AI and machine learning have become indispensable tools in the tourism industry. These technologies enable the creation of personalized itineraries, recommendations, and travel experiences tailored to individual preferences (Li, Wang, Liang, & Huang, 2018). AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants have also made customer service more efficient, providing instant and accurate answers to travelers’ questions (Gretzel, 2011).

  1. Internet of Things (IoT)

The IoT is revolutionizing the tourism industry by connecting devices, systems, and services to create seamless travel experiences (Delen, Kuzey, & Uyar, 2018). Smart luggage with built-in tracking systems, smart hotel rooms with voice-activated controls, and connected transportation services are just a few examples of how IoT is enhancing the travel experience (Bujoreanu, 2017).

  1. Biometric Technology

Biometric technology is becoming increasingly prevalent in airports and other travel-related facilities, as it allows for faster and more secure identification and authentication of travelers (Morphis, 2016). Facial recognition, fingerprint scanners, and iris recognition systems are being used to expedite immigration and customs processes, as well as to enhance security measures (Bagaric & Xynas, 2017).

  1. Sustainable Travel Technologies

As the tourism industry faces growing concerns about its environmental impact, sustainable travel technologies are emerging to help address these issues (Bieger, Wittmer, & Laesser, 2017). Electric and hybrid transportation options, solar-powered accommodation facilities, and innovative waste management solutions are just a few examples of the technologies being implemented to reduce the industry’s carbon footprint (Pantano, Pizzi, Scarpi, & Dennis, 2017).

Conclusion

The ongoing integration of technology into the tourism industry is reshaping the way we travel, offering more personalized, convenient, and immersive experiences. With constant innovations in virtual reality, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, biometric technology, and sustainable travel solutions, the future of travel is undoubtedly an exciting one. As these technologies continue to advance, they will play an increasingly important role in driving the growth and evolution of the tourism industry, ultimately shaping a more connected and sustainable world.

Bibliography

Bagaric, M., & Xynas, L. (2017). Migration and human rights in the era of biometric identification: The case for privacy-enhancing migration controls. International Migration, 55(6), 97-110.

Bieger, T., Wittmer, A., & Laesser, C. (2017). Transportation mode and travel behavior: A study on the role of electric and autonomous vehicles. Journal of Sustainable Tourism, 25(6), 811-828.

Bujoreanu, I. C. (2017). Internet of things and smart tourism development. Valahian Journal of Economic Studies, 8(2), 41-46.

Delen, D., Kuzey, C., & Uyar, A. (2018). The impact of the Internet of Things on the tourism industry: An exploratory study. Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Technology, 9(3), 286-300.

Gretzel, U. (2011). Intelligent systems in tourism: A social science perspective. Annals of Tourism Research, 38(3), 757-779.

Guttentag, D. (2010). Virtual reality: Applications and implications for tourism. Tourism Management, 31(5), 637-651.

Li, X., Wang, D., Liang, X., & Huang, D. (2018). A personalized travel recommendation algorithm based on collaborative filtering and time-aware POI visit probability. Journal of Destination Marketing & Management, 8, 206-215.

Morphis, A. (2016). Biometrics and international travel. Journal of Airport Management, 10(3), 271-279.

Pantano, E., Pizzi, G., Scarpi, D., & Dennis, C. (2017). Competing through responsible innovation: The case of the travel industry. Journal of Business Research, 77, 139-148.

Rossi A., (2022) “Comunicazione Digltale per il Turismo”, Rossi A., 2022, ISBN 9791221004175

Yung, R., & Khoo-Lattimore, C. (2019). New realities: A systematic literature review on virtual reality and augmented reality in tourism research. Current Issues in Tourism, 22(17), 2056-2081

TourismInnovation, #FutureOfTravel, #TravelTech, #VirtualReality, #ArtificialIntelligence, #IoTinTravel, #BiometricTechnology, #SustainableTravel, #SmartTourism, #TravelTrends

Contacts

Spellbound by Sweden: the “Scandi horror flick” advertising campaign for Sweden

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Trail in a dark pine forest on the slopes of the mountain. The Swedish Forest By goinyk

The “Scandi horror flick” advertising campaign for Sweden is a truly innovative and captivating way to draw visitors to the country. In an effort to tap into the popularity of horror and suspense,

Visit Sweden has crafted a two-minute horror film that is both frightening and alluring.

The film, which can be found on YouTube at the link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2nLmi6dCIE, is narrated by “Sweden” herself, and takes the viewer deep into the heart of the country’s forests, where they encounter a mysterious woman who turns out to be a huldra, a creepy forest nymph.

The video of the destination ADV campaign of VisitSweden

As the story unfolds, Sweden warns the viewer that what they are about to experience is not a dream, but a chilling reality. The film is expertly crafted, with a perfect balance of suspense and terror that will leave the viewer on the edge of their seat. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty and majesty of the Swedish forest, while also hinting at the danger lurking just beneath the surface.

The “Scandi horror flick” campaign is not just a short film, however. It is part of a larger effort to promote “Kiln,” a “chilling audio story” by John Ajvide Indqvist, which is only available to be downloaded in the Swedish forest. This unique marketing approach is sure to pique the interest of travelers and horror fans alike, and encourage them to explore the country and experience the story for themselves.

The video, which has been well-received by viewers, has garnered a significant amount of positive comments and engagement. Many have praised the film for its suspenseful and creepy atmosphere, while others have applauded the stunning cinematography and attention to detail. Regardless of one’s personal opinion on the horror genre, it is hard to deny the impact that this advertising campaign has had, and the buzz that it has generated around Sweden as a travel destination.

The “Scandi horror flick” campaign is a bold and daring way to promote Sweden, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression on those who view it. Whether you are a fan of horror and suspense, or simply interested in exploring the beauty and mystery of the Swedish forest, the “Scandi horror flick” campaign is a must-see. So, if you’re looking for a truly unique and unforgettable experience, then why not plan a trip to Sweden today?

Bibliography

#ScandiHorrorSweden; #VisitSweden; #HorrorsOfSweden; #SwedishForests; #HuldraMystery; #KilnAudioStory; #CreepyTravel; #SwedenAdventure; #UniqueMarketing; #SuspensefulJourney; #DiscoverSweden

http://www.andrearossi.it/en/contacts/

Integrated Online and Offline Communication

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Handshake after a good deal. By ijeab

The advent of digital communication has not eliminated offline channels, that is, traditional communication (newspapers, weeklies, monthlies, guides, radio, TV, etc.), which continue to have their audiences and therefore continue to be important for conveying our tourism messages.

An effective strategy in the digital communication era must therefore be able to integrate online and offline channels (Fig. 1), involving our audiences (especially fans on social media channels) to share our messages. To succeed in this endeavor, communication needs to be coordinated between the offline and online parts, both between the destination and the operators and residents as much as possible, conveying a well-defined tourism identity.

Fig 1 – Integrated communication diagram in Travel and Tourism (created by the Author)

Bibliogrphy

[Rossi A., 2022] Rossi Andrea, “Comunicazione Digltale per il Turismo”, Rossi A., 2022, ISBN 9791221004175

#OnlineOffline; #OnlineAndOffline; #OnlineAndOfflineChannels; #IntegratingOnlineAndOfflineChannels; DigitalCommunication; #TraditionalCommunication; #TourismMarketing; #TourismIdentity; #Coordination; #AudienceEngagement; #SocialMediaMarketing; #DestinationMarketing; #OfflineMarketing; #OnlineMarketing

The Crisis of Traditional Communication

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Heap of retro TV sets with no signal. The Crisis of Traditional Communication (By maxxyustas)

Traditional communication, constrained by rigid tools and a poor understanding of the target audience, their needs, passions, uncertainties, and their position in the customer journey, is not very effective in meeting the needs of new tourists who are more skeptical than ever of stimuli sent by traditional and institutional communication, and are also more accustomed to online research and a new ability to discern information and news.

In addition, even those entities that previously succeeded in influencing tourists’ choices, such as travel agents, tour operators, catalogs, mass media communication on TV, newspapers and radio, famous testimonials, have lost much of their influence compared to tourist reviews and especially influencers, who offer more modern and audience-friendly languages, styles, and formats.

Influencers are creators who have managed to show credibility and gain the trust and following of numerous fans, and can be bloggers, video makers, photographers, online journalists who have learned to use new languages, forum administrators, social media stars who have found their expressive niche and/or their particular passion and following.

Depending on their followers, influencers can be divided into various categories, e.g., Bella Foxwell of iconosquare.com [Foxwell B., 2021] classifies influencers into 4 categories:

  1. Mega: 1 million or more followers
  2. Macro: between 100,000 and 1 million followers
  3. Micro: between 10,000 and 100,000 followers
  4. Nano: 10,000 followers or less

Based on the ability to engage audiences, influencer marketing has emerged, which is the use of online experts in the field who have a fairly large audience that respects and trusts them. In the case of tourism, influencers can be tourism experts, but also specific experts of the target audience (e.g., families, singles, seniors, etc.), or even experts in experiential themes that the destination offers, such as sports influencers, food influencers, etc. Therefore, in tourism, it is important to use not only travel influencers, but also a range of specializations that fully represent our destination.

Bibliography

[Foxwell B., 2021] iconosquare.com Bella Foxwell, January 28th, 2021 “A Guide to Social Media Influencers: Mega, Macro, Micro, and Nano” https://blog.iconosquare.com/guide-to-social-media-influencers/ accessed on January 23rd, 2022

[Rossi A., 2022] Rossi Andrea, “Comunicazione Digitale per il Turismo”, Rossi A., 2022, ISBN 9791221004175

#TraditionalCommunicationCrisis #InfluencerImpact #TourismMarketing #InfluencerCategories #EngagingAudiences #TravelInfluencers #SpecializedInfluencers #DigitalCommunication

The Five Stages of a Tourist’s Customer Journey

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Young traveler planning vacation trip and searching information on laptop and smartphone, by kitzstocker

According to the UNWTO (World Tourism Organization) [López de Ávila A., 2011], a tourist’s customer journey (the process that characterizes the interaction between consumer and brand, from need to purchase and post-purchase) consists of 5 stages [Fig. 1]:

  • Dreaming
  • Researching
  • Booking
  • Experiencing
  • Sharing

Fig. 1 – The Tourist’s Customer Journey (own elaboration)

The Dreaming stage is the most critical phase of the tourism customer journey, as it is when the tourist starts to consider traveling without a clear idea of where to go. Tourists search for information, compare offers, ask for advice, and typically use the internet as a source of inspiration, utilizing search engines, social networks, blogs, travel websites, and encountering shared tourist content (texts, photos, videos) from destinations, operators, residents, media, influencers, and other tourists.

The Researching stage involves the tourist investing time in a more in-depth exploration of potential destinations and the feasibility of their travel intentions (prices, availability, offers, services, connections, etc.). They use numerous online services like TripAdvisor, Booking, eDreams, Expedia, Airbnb, Trivago, Skyscanner, etc. Opinions from other users, tourists, or influencers remain crucial at this stage.

The Booking stage increasingly occurs online, particularly for short and medium-haul trips or short and medium-duration stays. However, traditional travel agencies and tour operators still play a significant role, especially for long-haul or extended-duration trips. Tourists book necessary resources, such as accommodations, transportation, local activities, and event tickets. Online bookings have grown exponentially on desktops/laptops and mobile devices. As a result, booking websites must be intuitive, easy to use, responsive (adapting to the tourist’s device), and offer optimized mobile apps. Tourists place greater trust in other users’ reviews than in institutional advertising, which has lost credibility.

During the Experiencing stage, tourists seek contextually relevant information and content at their location, tailored to their interests and passions, primarily using smartphones. Responsive websites, apps, web apps, and social channels must provide real-time access to routes, recommendations, schedules, maps, transportation, events, services, and any other information the tourist may need during their stay. Tourists increasingly access real-time information upon arrival at their destination instead of preparing in detail in advance.

In the Sharing stage, tourists share opinions, information, and content (texts, photos, videos, stories, reels) about their vacation in real-time or later (creating albums, retouching photos, or editing videos more structurally). This sharing is made possible by smartphones, increasingly widespread free Wi-Fi, and reduced data costs (5G, 4G) even while roaming. These valuable feedback (photos, videos, reviews, opinions, or general information about the trip or destination) influence other tourists’ decisions and the actions of operators and DMOs (Destination Management Organizations) that can capitalize on this information.

Bibliography

#TouristCustomerJourney; #TravelPlanning; #DreamExploreBook; #TravelStages; #TravelExperience; #TourismInsights; #DigitalTourism; #UNWTO; #TravelSharing; #SmartTravel

http://www.andrearossi.it/en/contacts/

“A tourist experience is what you remember”

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Happy couple of lovers enjoying sail boat trip experience in the ocean – Boyfriend and girlfriend taking selfie picture outside on summer vacation

Picture Credit: engy91

Using Porter’s classic strategic model, several factors have changed in the digital age, which are essential to understand in order to define an appropriate marketing and communication strategy (Fig. 1).

Fig. 1 – Classic Porter’s Model (Author’s elaboration)

Indeed, with the advent of the Internet, low-cost flights, and the era of personalized tourist experiences, the following have changed:

• Industry Competition (rivalry): always very high and fragmented, making price increases risky and limiting creative innovation opportunities (which involve significant costs and time) while the barriers to entry are reduced by the internet.

• Newcomers: new countries like the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), new technological platforms (Booking, Expedia, Trivago, Tripadvisor, Airbnb, Skyscanner, etc.), and low-cost flights that have quickly shifted traffic due to low prices.

• Substitute Products: new niche thematic experiences (e.g., pursuing passions like cosplay, film tourism, or Storm Chasing/Tornado Hunting), changes in vacation duration and periods (from the classic multi-week summer vacations of the ’70s-’80s to short breaks and multiple vacations in more modern times), and technologies that allow exploration and virtual visits from home (e.g., Youtube videos, Google Arts & Culture, Virtual Tours, Virtual Reality, Metaverse, etc.)

• Suppliers: labor market and creative and technological providers, who require increasingly updated and excellent qualifications, as well as the availability of local products, food and wine, and crafts, etc., which make the difference between an excellent and a mediocre offer.

• But above all, the Customers: who have the power of information and reviews from other tourists and an almost unlimited choice online (of destinations, accommodations, flights, packages, etc.), who want to live meaningful experiences and have shifted from passive consumers to active decision-makers for their vacations, thus overturning the balance of power that existed with operators and destinations.

For example, today tourists seek, among other experiences, Storm Chasing/Tornado Hunting, where tourists, accompanied by trained professionals, get close to or even inside storms and tornadoes. This is an extreme example, but it serves to illustrate how the world of tourism has changed with the advent of the Internet. Google alone records 25,000,000 results for the term “Storm Chasing.” (Fig. 2).

Fig. 2 – Some Storm Chasing and Tornado Hunting offers found online. Google indicates 25 million results in the Storm Chasing search (Author’s elaboration)

The Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) [CTC, 2011] says that “a tourism product is what you buy, a tourist experience is what you remember”, or in other words, a tourism experience actively connects and relates tourists with the local area (and preferably with locals) and lets them live authentic and deeply engaging experiences based on their passions. More and more tourists are transitioning from observers/visitors of attractions and territories to seekers of specific experiences tailored to their personalities, interests, needs, and passions.

Of course, no sector is static, including tourism, and it is necessary to continue observing changes and future trends to stay up-to-date and understand the future of tourism and how to adapt one’s business and offerings accordingly.

Communication is also affected by these changes in which the tourist is at the center and wants relevant, targeted, pertinent, personalized messages without wasting time on unnecessary interruptions. The shift is from paper to cloud, desktop to mobile, “leave a message” to “always on,” and most importantly, from sending messages to potential tourists to searching online for what tourists actually want.

Bibliography

Photo and Picture Credits: Andrea Rossi (Author); engy91

#touristexperience #digitaltourism #marketingstrategy #communicationstrategy #customization #nicheexperiences #StormChasing #TornadoHunting #localproducts #virtualtourism #travelmemories #BRICS #lowcostflights #Portersmodel #customerpower

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Smart Technologies for a Memorable Tourist Experience in the 2020s

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AR is one of the new smart technology of the 2020s tourism
AR is one of the new smart technology of the 2020s tourism

The 2020s have seen a surge in the implementation of innovative digital technologies in the tourism sector.
In an age where digitalization is no longer a trend but a reality, the extensive use of smart techs has become essential within the tourism industry.
These technologies empower tourists, making them more active, and raise their expectations in terms of experiences at a destination or a specific attraction.

Tourism destinations, attractions, and operators must manage this challenge by adopting and implementing smart infrastructures and technologies in their offerings.
By designing and creating attractive and memorable tourist experiences, they can ensure their continued success in an ever-evolving industry.

Smart tourism, as suggested by literature [Gretzel U. et al. 2016; Femenia-Serra F. et al., 2018], is a managerial framework that combines tourism infrastructure with ICT (Information and Communication Techs) tools to increase the efficiency of destinations and operators while enhancing tourists’ experiences.

The concept of smart technologies includes new forms of cooperation and technologies for value creation.
It’s important to note that being “smart” does not refer to the advancement of a single technology, but rather the interconnection and simultaneous collaboration of various technologies.

Smart technologies encompass a range of innovative techs, such as [Shen S. et al., 2020]:

  • Internet of Things (IoT): a network capable of identifying, locating, tracking, monitoring, managing, and connecting products to the network for the exchange of information and communication through RFID, infrared sensors, GPS, laser scanning, and other types of sensors.
  • Cloud computing technologies: these technologies have two meanings, 1. the platforms used to build applications (cloud platform), 2. The applications built on these platforms (cloud application).
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI): technologies that use software and hardware to simulate intelligent human behavior, effectively compute and analyze data and information, and support decision-making and problem-solving. For example, virtual assistants.
  • Mobile communication technologies: technologies used for wireless communication that enable real-time connection between remote systems and devices. 5G is the fifth generation of mobile communication technology, much faster and more reliable than the previous (4G). Soon we will have 6G, even faster.
  • Mobile devices and apps: electronic devices, such as smartphones and tablets, and the technologies connected to them. Mobile internet includes various platform devices, such as smartphones, tablets, in-car systems, and wireless home automation systems. The mobile internet also includes personal and business apps.
  • Big data: Big data is a term that describes the huge volume of structured and unstructured data flooding the network every day. Big data can be analyzed to gain insights that guide better decision-making for destinations and operators.
  • Ubiquitous connection between Wi-Fi and other networks: a technology that allows electronic devices to connect to the wireless network of a local area, such as public city networks.
  • Virtual reality: a form of information technology that enables users to navigate computer-generated simulated environments. VR is a computer-generated environment where people can experience places and situations as if they were actually present. For example, Virtual Tour or the more recent Metaverse.
  • Augmented reality: an enhanced version of reality where people see the real world overlaid with digital information and elements through a digital display (smartphone or dedicated headset). AR enriches people’s perception of reality and enhances their visiting experience through additional digital content.
  • Intelligent Chat Robot: a robot capable of understanding and conversing with users using human language.
  • Wearable devices: portable devices that can be worn directly or integrated into users’ clothing or accessories. For example, smartwatches.
  • Beacon technology: beacons are small wireless transmitters that use low-energy Bluetooth to send signals to other smart devices nearby. They allow for great precision in localization and enable proximity marketing.

These innovations are transforming the way tourists interact with their surroundings, enhancing their experiences and allowing operators to cater to their needs more effectively.
By embracing these smart technologies, the tourism industry can ensure its continued growth and success in the 2020s and beyond.

Bibliography.

  • [Femenia-Serra, F. et al., 2018] Femenia-Serra, F.; Neuhofer, B. Smart tourism experiences: Conceptualization, key dimensions and research agenda. J. Reg. Res. 2018, 42, 129–150.
  • [Gretzel, U. et al., 2016] Gretzel, U.; Zhong, L.; Koo, C. Application of smart tourism to cities. Int. J. Tour. Cit. 2016, 2, 106–108.
  • [Rossi A., 2022] Rossi Andrea, “Comunicazione Digltale per il Turismo”, Rossi A., 2022, ISBN 9791221004175
  • [Shiwei Shen Scene S. et al, 2020] Shiwei Shen Scene S., Marios Sotiriadis and Yuwen Zhang “The Influence of Smart Technologies on Customer Journey in Tourist Attractions within the Smart Tourism Management Framework”, Sustainability 2020, 12, 4157

Credits: picture by DegrooteStock

#Travel; #Tourism; #Tech; #Technology; #DigitalTourism; #Destination Marketing; #Destination Management; #Experience; #ExperienceManagement; #ExperienceDesign

Contacts