In the competitive travel, hospitality and tourism industries, creativity isn't just a nice-to-have – it's essential for capturing attention and driving visits. Here are a few strategies we've found effective in bringing a spark to our marketing efforts:

1. Embrace Storytelling: Guests aren't just buying trips; they're investing in experiences and memories. Use your marketing to tell compelling stories that resonate with your audience's desires and aspirations. Share guest testimonials, behind-the-scenes glimpses of destinations, or even create fictional narratives that transport readers to exotic locales.

2. Leverage User-Generated Content (UGC): Turn your satisfied guests into brand ambassadors! Encourage them to share photos and videos of their trips on social media, tagging your resort. Repost this content, showcasing authentic experiences from real travelers. UGC builds trust and gives potential guests a genuine look at what you offer.

3. Host Unique Events: Partner with local businesses, influencers, or tourism boards to host events that go beyond the typical travel fair. Consider themed parties, interactive workshops on travel photography or packing, or even virtual reality experiences that let people "preview" a destination.

When you look at successful marketing for destinations, what is it that sets them apart? For me, its three things: creativity, authenticity and being socially smart.

1. Be creative. What will make your destination stand out from others? Being creative doesn’t mean you need to reinvent the wheel; it’s about putting your own unique spin on your brand. Create a message that keeps your brand fresh and relevant.

2. Be authentic. People crave genuineness. Authenticity fosters trust and builds lasting relationships with your visitors.

3. Be socially smart. Doing so is not just socially responsible, it’s smart. It’s much easier for someone to imagine themselves visiting a destination or using a service if they see someone that looks like them doing it. Look at your audience analytics, or the demographics of your desired market, and factor them into your creative process. Don't forget to ask these questions: Do the people in your images and video reflect the diversity of your audience? Are you reinforcing gender or racial stereotypes?

As resort marketers we have found it is easier to market to non-local guests. Turns out, there's some science behind why. You would think marketing a resort close to home would be a slam dunk. But, its not. And, why is that? 

There are several reasons why people sometimes prioritize traveling to distant destinations over exploring their local areas:
-The Lure of the Exotic: We're naturally drawn to the unfamiliar. Distant places offer new experiences, different cultures, and a sense of escaping our everyday lives.
-Social Media and Travel Inspiration: Travel blogs, social media, and movies showcase breathtaking, far-off destinations. This can create a desire to visit those places and make local areas seem less exciting by comparison. 

Smartphone Photos Can Show Others Your Locations...