International Youth Day, presents a vibrant opportunity for DMOs to connect with young travellers, showcase activities and experiences relevant to their interests and attract a future generation of loyal visitors.
Here are some AI-generated tips on how to maximise the potential in your marketing calendar.
Focus on Social Impact and Adventure:
- Run "Youth Changemaker Photo Contests": Encourage user-generated content by asking participants to share photos capturing their impactful travel experiences, volunteering initiatives, or sustainable adventures. Offer prizes like eco-tourism trips, participation in local community projects, or sustainable travel vouchers.
- Organise "Adventure Escape Tours": Partner with local adventure companies to offer guided hikes, kayak expeditions or cultural scavenger hunts tailored for young travellers seeking adrenaline and exploration. Highlight responsible tourism practices and environmental awareness.
- Develop "Impact Getaway Guides": Create online or printable guides featuring volunteer opportunities with local NGOs, social entrepreneurship initiatives, eco-friendly accommodation options and recommendations for engaging in positive change during their trip.
- Offer Special "Purposeful Adventure" Travel Packages: Design travel packages featuring accommodation in hostels or eco-lodges, access to exclusive volunteer projects, workshops on social impact travel, and personalised recommendations for making a positive contribution to your destination. Cater to solo travellers, small groups and young adventurers.
Embrace Diversity and Authentic Connections:
- Highlight Diverse Youth Experiences: Showcase young travellers from various backgrounds and abilities in your marketing visuals and stories. Avoid relying on stereotypical portrayals of youth culture.
- Organise "Cultural Exchange Events": Partner with local youth groups or universities to host international music festivals, sports tournaments or language exchange programs. Encourage interaction and connection between visitors and local youth.
- Promote Street Art and Local Music: Showcase urban art trails, vibrant street markets, or emerging local bands to cater to young travellers' interest in authentic cultural experiences. Encourage exploration beyond traditional tourist spots.
- Offer "Buddy Up Programs": Connect visitors with local young people through language exchange programs, coffee meet-ups, or shared excursions. Foster genuine friendships and intercultural understanding.
Remember:
- Authenticity is Key: Avoid forced or superficial marketing tactics. Focus on genuine experiences that resonate with young travellers' values like social impact, adventure and cultural connection.
- Maintain a Diverse and Inclusive Tone: Ensure your marketing welcomes young people from all backgrounds, abilities and cultural identities. Avoid exclusivity or discrimination in any form.
- Focus on Sustainable Tourism: Promote responsible travel practices, eco-friendly activities, and respect for local communities. Encourage young travellers to be mindful of their environmental and social impact.
- Go Beyond the Day: International Youth Day is a springboard to position your DMO as a year-round destination for young travellers. Continuously highlight responsible adventures, opportunities for social impact and authentic cultural experiences.
By creatively leveraging International Youth Day with a focus on social impact, authentic connections and diverse experiences, DMOs can attract young travellers, contribute to positive change, and create lasting memories associated with adventure and purpose in their destination. So, celebrate the power of youth, encourage exploration with a conscience and let International Youth Day be the first step in welcoming young visitors to a year-round journey of meaningful experiences and lasting connections at your destination!
