NOVEMBER 2016
TOP 5 STATS MOUNTAIN RESORTS, BRANDS & BUSINESSES NEED TO KNOW
+ Did you know over 60% of ski and snowboard travelers consider the après scene when booking their resort destinations?
That makes sense when you stop to think about it. If you're planning a trip you can only hope there is good snow, but it's nice to know there's a diverse menu of après and nightlife options too…just in case.
+ Did you know over 78% of travelers say reviews on social media influence their restaurant choices while on vacation?
Most resort bars and restaurants struggle on social media on many levels. The staff hate people taking pictures of their food, posting to social media and reviewing their customer service, but this is the social media age and it's not going away anytime soon. On top of that owners and mangers are not handling social media responsibilities professionally or effectively. It is in the best interest of every business to organize their social media and web presence to engage today's customers.
+ Did you know over 85% of travelers use their smart phones to post photos, reviews and more while on vacation?
Look at me (at your resort or using your brand)! Wish you were here (at your hotel or restaurant)! It seems everyone has a smart phone and uses it to post their pictures, videos and more, especially on vacation. Brands, businesses and events either know how to use this content effectively or they don't.
+ Did you know over 92% of travelers say reviews from family, friends and other customers is more valuable then any commercial advertisement?
Been there. Done that. First hand experiences and recommendations from real people, especially those I know, will always outweigh any paid advertising or public relations.
+ Did you know millennials spend more money of travel and entertainment than Baby Boomers?
Millennials watch YouTube more then any cable network. Do you know what music they enjoy? What foods the order most? Their styles and Fashion? If you don't care or think "this is what I do & how I done it for 20 years" you're part of the past, part of the problem…and there won't be room for you in the future. Right or wrong… the businesses with "this is what we do take it or leave it" attitude is hurting resort brands and reputation of many communities, because the average tourist doesn’t distinguish between the town and the resort who share the same name. Another reason for the resort to invest in the people and community, and not just profits by any means necessary.