Social media has revolutionized the way in which business trade and interact with their consumers, and this is true across almost every single industry and market. Some have benefited more from the growth of social media than others, however, and the impact of audio visual networking sites and remote interaction has been especially noticeable within the travel sector.
So what are the best social networking travel sites out there, and how have they helped brands and consumers alike?
Facebook: As the market leading networking site, Facebook has worked hard to integrate itself with similar resources. Given this and the recent Timeline innovation, it is now easier than ever for travel brands to understand their consumers and offer a more complete service. Users can also make Facebook the center of their social media profile, and interact with a huge community of travelers.
Tripnchat: In contrast, Tripnchat is often overlooked as a networking resource, but its image led interface provides a wonderful opportunity for travelers to connect with like-minded souls and share their experiences through photography and conversations. It has become a great source of knowledge for travelers who are looking to plan their trips in advance.
Virtual Tourist: One of the longest standing travel networking sites, Virtual Tourist boasts more than 1 million users and has created an entire community around its members. Featuring hotel reviews, location guides and a forum for sharing advice, the site offers helpful and real time guidance to travelers.
TripAdvisor: In terms of offering first hand advice to travelers, TripAdvisor stands as the market leading travel based networking website. With more 50 million unique visits each month, its huge source of information and advice is supplied by a global travel community that has published over 60 million location reviews.
TripSay: Operating a graphic and interactive map, Tripnsay allows users to drag and drop icons onto their favorite, least favorite or dream destinations. This is shared with other members of the TripSay community, whose opinions can help to shape your traveling experience and the locations that you visit.
TripIt: While the majority of travel networking sites help users to choose their destinations, TripIt allows them to create an itinerary once they have booked their trip. Featuring maps and directions to the regions must see sights, it is also compatible with smartphones and tablets to allow planning while on the move.
YouTube: Though not a specialist travel networking resource, YouTube’s audio visual interface makes it ideal for presenting travel locations and package experiences. With leading adventure travel companies such as Chilli Sauce promoting their events and overseas excursions through the site, You Tube also offers significant integration with other leading sites like Facebook and Pinterest.
Dopplr: Dopplr is another resource that is deeply integrated with websites such as Flickr and Twitter, but one that also has the benefit of being a niche travel networking site. With a search function that allows users to select a city and uncover popular bars, eateries and places of interest, it uses graphics and imagery to educate potential travelers.
Pinterest: Pinterest emerged as the fastest growing social media resource in 2011, and its application of imagery provides a great method through which travelers can narrate their stories. With the option of creating different boards for different locations, travelers can also develop a wide portfolio of imagery and like-minded connections.
TripWolf: TripWolf is unique in that it is an activity based travel network, whereby users interact based on their favorite things to do at specific destinations. With content provided by a combination of established travel writers and keen volunteers, the site includes detailed information on what to do in more than 500,000 cities.
