Since I spend half my time in the tech world and half my time in travel, I love opportunities where both groups participate.

The technology industry has had a great deal of success sharing innovations and ideas through a series of Tech Meet Up events. I was so inspired by this that I’ve joined with the U.S. Travel Association and Edelman to create a series of Social Media Travel Industry Meet Ups for industry players to discuss what’s working and not working for them in the social media space. As you know, social media has a tremendous impact on the way consumers research, book and plan itineraries for their vacations and business trips. Message boards, blogs, Twitter, Facebook – the list goes on and on – all make an impact on the choices consumers make.  

The first event will be hosted in Chicago on Thursday Oct. 22 , from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Edelman (200 E. Randolph 63^rd Floor).  Learn about trends within social media and the travel industry and ways to utilize social media to help consumers with their travel needs.

Joining us to lead the conversation will be:

·         Michael Dalesandro, CEO of Where I’ve Been (will discuss his successful Facebook launch to get 9 million members!)

·         Phil Gomes, Senior Vice President, Edelman Digital (who’ll present ideas on using social media from a public relations perspective)

·         John T. Peters, CEO of Tripology (I will moderate and discuss how selling “online” differs from selling face-to-face.)

If you are interested in learning more about recent developments in the travel industry and staying ahead of social media travel trends, please RSVP at http://www.meetup.com/Tripology-Chicago-Meetup/.

If you’re in the Chicago area and want to join us, hurry, space is limited to 50 people.

Best,

John