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9 Ways to Use Video for Tourism Marketing

• April 18, 2024
• Travel Marketing , Travel Video Production

A recent survey found that most marketers believe in the power of video marketing but need help with the time or know-how to focus on it. We know marketing teams at tourism boards and travel destinations are in this same bucket.

So today, we’re sharing examples of platforms and content types your brand can use to harness the power of video marketing. These video marketing examples will remove the “know-how” barrier to simplify planning your video strategy.

And when it comes to time and execution, as a travel video marketing agency , Forge Apollo can help with that, too.

Let’s dive into some examples.

5 Video Marketing Channels

Where do videos fit into your tourism marketing strategy? Here are some ways you can integrate videos into your existing channels.

Enhance the visuals on your website and make it more engaging with high-quality video highlights throughout.

Organic Social

With Reels, TikTok, Shorts, and whatever the next platform will be, audiences want to see more video content on organic social.

Include video content in your emails to increase engagement. For example, add facility tours or attraction highlights to welcome emails.

Our Secrets to Romance case study highlights how Secrets Resorts uses a video in an email campaign to drive millions in incremental revenue and bookings.

Advertisements

All of your ads, from social media ads to Google display ads, can be enhanced with video. Plus, high-quality video can make television and online commercials more effective.

YouTube Videos

Many consumers turn to YouTube to do research for their next vacation, so posting content there can help them discover your brand.

9 Types of Tourism Video Content To Make

Knowing what tourism marketing channels you want to add video to is one thing. But figuring out what types of content to fill them with is another challenge.

Here are 9 types of video marketing examples you can use to inspire your content.

1. Video Tours

Showcase the amenities, accommodations, activities, and more of your resort or tourist destination with a video tour.

2. Lifestyle Footage

Create content featuring people enjoying your facilities and amenities to show your audience what it’s like at your destination.

For example, in this video by Forge Apollo, Hilton Enclave highlights its various amenities with shots of people enjoying them. This helps to humanize the brand and let the audience imagine themselves there.

This ad from Wildwoods Tourism does the same, highlighting the Wildwood experience from the audience’s perspective.

3. Testimonials

Give your testimonials and reviews an extra human touch by creating a video to inspire trust and credibility.

4. Drone Footage

Create stunning drone footage of your location, landscapes, and attractions.

For example, this video from the Mahalo Diamond Beach resort uses drone footage to highlight the nearby Wildwood Boardwalk.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Mahalo Diamond Beach (@mahalodiamondbeach)

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ICONA Avalon (@iconaavalon)

5. Highlighting Events

Highlight special events, promotions, discounts, and more to attract potential visitors.

For example, this Instagram Reel highlights a Valentine’s Day package at ICONA Diamond Beach.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ICONA Diamond Beach (@iconadiamondbeach)

6. Influencer Content

Partner with influencers to create an inside view of what it’s like to visit your destination.

7. Behind the Scenes

Give your audience a view into the day-to-day operations and people behind your resort with behind-the-scenes videos.

For example, in this video, Applebrook Golf Club sits down with the course architect and other team members to show off the club from an inside perspective.

8. Tapping Into Emotions

Connecting with your audience’s emotions is the perfect way to resonate and have staying power. Whether humor, frustration, happiness, or anything else, tapping into an emotion has a powerful effect.

For example, this video from Secrets Resorts taps into romance, love, and connection.

Meanwhile, this video from Breathless Resorts starts with humor to hook the viewer.

9. Live Streaming

Highlight real-time events, activities, or views to engage with your audience in the moment through live streams.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you determine the best type of video content for different social media platforms.

The key to selecting the right type of video content for each social media platform lies in understanding both the platform’s unique features and its user behavior.

For example, Instagram Reels and TikTok favor short, engaging clips that quickly capture attention, making them ideal for showcasing snippets of destinations, quick tours, or exciting activities. Conversely, YouTube supports longer-form content, allowing for in-depth explorations, comprehensive tours, or detailed storytelling about a place’s history and offerings. 

It’s also important to consider the platform users’ demographics to tailor the content accordingly. Analyzing successful competitors or similar destinations on each platform can provide insights into what works best.

What tips do you have for creating engaging video content that stands out in the crowded tourism market?

To stand out, it’s crucial to focus on storytelling and emotional engagement. Videos that tell a compelling story or connect emotionally—whether through humor, awe, inspiration, or warmth—are more likely to be remembered and shared.

High-quality visuals are a must. However, authenticity shouldn’t be sacrificed for polish. Showing real experiences, featuring guests, and highlighting what makes your destination unique can set your content apart. Incorporating user-generated content can add authenticity and encourage engagement.

Staying up-to-date with trends and using them creatively in your content can also increase its appeal and shareability.

How often should tourism brands update their video content to keep potential visitors engaged and interested?

The frequency of updating video content can depend on several factors. This includes the platform, the target audience, and the brand’s marketing goals. However, maintaining a consistent presence without overwhelming your audience is a good rule of thumb.

For platforms that thrive on frequent updates, like Instagram or TikTok, posting new video content at least once a week can help maintain visibility and engagement. A bi-weekly or monthly schedule might be more appropriate for platforms like YouTube, where longer-form content is prevalent.

It’s also beneficial to align video content updates with seasonal changes, special events, or promotions to keep the content timely and relevant. Regularly analyzing engagement metrics can help refine the strategy, ensuring the content remains fresh and exciting to potential visitors.

Partner With a Video Marketing Agency

If your brand still has concerns about bandwidth to execute video marketing, Forge Apollo can help. We’re a Philadelphia video production agency that travels worldwide to film. We’re more than a video marketing agency alone, though. Our digital marketing gurus can take your content and strategize how to best use it to reach your audience.

Contact us today to harness the power of video for your tourism marketing strategy.

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8 Best Travel Video Ads

Nothing sells travel better than amazing video footage. If you’re in the travel business and aren’t making video ads for social media, what are you waiting for?

We’ve created this list of eight popular travel video ads that tackle advertising in diverse, but equally effective ways. They have all racked up mass quantities of views, and probably a good number of leads . 1. A travel agency specializing in trips to Walt Disney World decided to get specific in this TikTok video ad . Rather than focusing on the variety of accommodations in the area, the video zeroes in on the Margaritaville Resort, using a green screen to simultaneously display the speaker as well as images of the resort and nearby attractions. It’s effective because it gives the casual viewer a concrete idea of what a vacation to the area would look like. A simple call to action with contact information ends the ad, which has been viewed 115,000 times.

2. Our next example also has a narrow focus. This video ad by a Ukrainian travel agent showcases hotels with the best food in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt. The video starts casually, with selfie footage of the speaker standing before a stunning aquamarine sea. Then it segues into video footage of mouthwatering resort buffets and glamorous restaurants, as the speaker gives voiceover reviews. This ad has been viewed more than 300,000 times. 3. While the last two ads were pretty targeted, the next one wins the prize for specificity. In this TikTok ad by @aubreepaigetravels , Aubree actually invites viewers to join herself and her husband at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico during a particular weekend. The ad features a view of a luxurious bubble bath in a bathroom with a floor-to-ceiling view of the ocean. No word on whether anyone accepted the invitation, but the ad was viewed more than 20,000 times. 4. Though this list focuses mostly on small businesses, we wanted to include this YouTube ad by travel giant Expedia. It’s creative and doable even on a smaller advertising budget. The ad features a birds’-eye view of a living room with sped-up footage of people rearranging the furniture to look like a car on a road trip, or a pool perfect for lounging in. If this compelling ad had been made by a mom-and-pop travel agency, you can be sure viewers would take the time to browse the agency’s other videos—it’s that interesting. The short clip ends with Expedia’s brand logo and has been viewed 75 million times.

5. Awarding Travels has done a bang-up job of catering to viewers trying to choose a hotel in Cancun, Mexico. This top-10 video list of all-inclusive Cancun resorts features reviews of each resort over a backdrop of official footage of each destination. The video description includes a convenient website link for viewers who would like to learn more. It has been viewed nearly a quarter of a million times, and you can bet some of those viewers have clicked through and booked a vacation. 6. While the last ad assumed viewers were interested in an all-inclusive vacation, the next one takes a slightly different approach. Geared more for the research-minded, skeptical traveler, this video by Costa Rican Vacations focuses on the pros and cons of an all-inclusive trip to Costa Rica. It’s not click bait or a marketing gimmick—the ad really does discuss actual, legitimate reasons not to book an all-inclusive. This approach casts this travel agency as a straight-shooting operation that won’t  try to sell you on a vacation package that isn’t what you want. 7. While most of the ads we’ve discussed so far are short and to-the-point, Harr Travel goes a different way in this video . The ad is actually a full walkthrough of Beaches Turks and Caicos resort, clocking in at over an hour in length. The agency’s logo and phone number appear on the screen throughout. This review is super-comprehensive, and has no doubt been very helpful to some of the 40,000 people who have viewed it.

8. Our last example is fun and casual , and very effective. This super-short ad by @shannonkittner starts with a caption stating, “I need professional help with planning a trip to Disney World for my family and I don’t know where to start.” Shannon dances to music and pretends to dial a phone, after which captions pop up on the screen advertising her business and emphasizing the fact that clients won’t pay anymore for her services than they would booking directly with Disney. The ad grabs attention with the music and dance, then seals the deal with a value proposition that’s hard to beat.

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Effective Travel Ads: Examples and Ideas

Looking for fresh ideas on how to create ads for your travel business? In this article, we'll explore tourism advertisement, focusing on what really resonates with the viewers. We’ll share a selection of creative ideas and insights for marketers looking to kickstart their travel campaigns. Stay with us and get inspired.

Features of Engaging Travel Ads

Creating ads that grab attention and get stuck in one’s head, making them hum the ad’s catchy tunes on the way to work, isn't easy—it takes a whole team of creative minds. But even with all that creativity, these ads often share some key elements and are built on the same basic principles.

The 5 Commandments of Good Travel Ads:

1. Emotional resonance. Ads that evoke feelings of excitement, peace, or adventure tend to connect more deeply with viewers, encouraging them to imagine themselves in the setting.

2. Visual storytelling. Can’t afford a team of outstanding screenwriters? Luckily, in the tourism industry it’s often enough just to show what a destination looks like. This is the case, when an image speaks a thousand words, and a video is worth a thousand pictures.

3. Compelling narratives. Storytelling and a simple, but strong message is what truly sets great ads apart. Always keep in mind that people don’t want to buy tickets and tours - they pay for emotions, memories and adventures with their loved ones. If you want to create a strong message, define for yourself what your company’s mission is, and how exactly you aim to make your clients’ lives happier and easier.

4. Personalization. Speaking to a broad audience is rarely sufficient. Spend extra time to understand who your clients are. What are their lifestyles, budget, values? At what stage of decision-making are they? Are they just window shopping? Are they thinking about where to spend their honeymoons? Or maybe, they already have a destination in mind, and now search for the best deals? Conduct a survey, use big data and hire a strategy team to learn everything about your target audience.

5. Call to action. A self-explanatory, but often overlooked point. A strong CTA that clearly guides viewers on how to explore more about the destination or offer ensures the ad doesn't just captivate but also converts interest into action.

6 Best Travel Advertisement Examples

Let’s take a look at some travel ad examples to see how the industry giants do it.

1. American Express Travel

Why does this Delta SkyMiles American Express Cards ad work? It’s short, its message is perfectly clear and simple, and it speaks to a very specific demographic. If you’ve ever been in a long-distance relationship, you know how expensive it is to keep seeing your significant other frequently. Amex doesn’t offer their clients to save some money on flights. Instead, it offers to remove the obstacle that stands between them and their desired love lives.

In this ad , Amex offers exclusive access to event presales, to dedicated venue entryways and Card Member lounges:

Here is what the Vice President of Global Brand Advertising at Amex, Jessica Ling, has to say about this ad:

“Sports have the power to connect communities around the world. We’re excited to launch these high-energy, contextually relevant ad spots that show a mother and daughter building their connection through a shared love of sports. We hope by watching these stories, viewers will get a taste of the energy and excitement that comes with experiencing sports with Amex.”

2. Booking.com

What does the following Booking ad sell?

Right, it sells the opportunity to try oneself in different roles people don’t get to play in their everyday lives. Whether you're an office worker or a stay-at-home dad, book a vacation and be an explorer, an artist, or a professional surfer. This ad is a pro example of when a strong message gets across even without precise targeting.

And here is a banner ad by Booking:

It has several noteworthy features:

• a great photo, which conveys emotions;
• a clear and straigh-forward CTA;
• seasonality (it is tied to New Year -  a time, when most people probably reevaluated their life decisions and promised themselves to experience life more);
• a limited special offer.

Most companies strive to be omnipresent and reach viewers through all the possible channels. Here is an ad that runs across META platforms. Nothing fancy, but the main elements of a good ad are still here. It features a short video of surfers, a clear CTA that invites to install the app, and a short message that highlights the company’s main proposition - the possibility to find and book a place fast and easy. 

The company makes sure to dominate the search result pages too. Just last month they ran around 2.1M Search ads on Google:

And even though their Paid Ads game is strong, the company visibly invests a lot of resources into Search Engine Optimization . This way booking.com appears on the search result pages of most of the travel-related queries, saving a lot on clicks:

Most of the tourism industry giants use pop-up ads on their websites:

It’s a great opportunity to inform about your current special offers, or get visitors on the email list in return for some bonuses. You have to be careful with pop up ads though - sometimes they can do more harm than good. 

Read more about how to make effective pop up ads here . 

Another effective strategy that many companies use is user-generated ads:

Such approach kills several birds with one stone:

• it costs basically nothing;
• it serves as a social proof and makes the company look trustworthy;
• you get exposure among the users’ following.

Agoda also runs ads on Meta. This ad in particular is 6 seconds long, but enough for the actor to say the buzzwords:  “cashbacks, coupons, discounts”. Most companies use short formats on social media ads, saving longer and more complex video ads for Youtube.

And here is a beautiful campaign run by Agoda during the pandemic:

It shows sympathy for everyone stuck at home, and shifts the focus from closed borders to discovering places in our own countries. It’s compassionate and doesn’t pressure us to purchase anything. It simply suggests that now might be the time to see more of our own countries, and Agoda is here to help with special offers. 

The recipe is the same:

Understanding the pain of the target audience + strong positive message + beautiful emotional storytelling + great visuals. 

Be like other successful companies and don’t forget about mobile marketing . Travel companies that have mobile apps actively invest in Paid User Acquisition and App Store Optimization. 

But, of course, mobile marketing isn’t limited inside the app stores. Here is a creative and slightly dark YouTube ad from Kayak marketers, who did a great job at understanding the struggles of their target audience:

One more proof that the Kayak marketing team just gets us:

No, we’re not telling you to use politics in your marketing messages. But it’s always worth it to keep up with the latest news and trends, in which people are emotionally invested. If done tastefully, such ads are likely to become viral and connect with big audiences. 

Take a look at this campaign that ran on YouTube and TikTok:

Just perfect targeting. If you can, always address different segments separately.

This is an Expedia Facebook ad. If you look closely, you'll notice it's structured similarly to the travel ad examples from other companies we've discussed. It targets parents with family-friendly packages and features a clear call to action (CTA).

Expedia has a very strong social media game. Apart from the most popular media, it also runs ads on Pinterest, which has less competition and still isn't widely-used for advertising.

This video ad from Expedia is another good example of appealing to emotions and using a strong slogan:

If you’d like to get more inspiring ideas and see ad examples, choose a brand you look up to and browse through their social media and YouTube account. Also, Google, Meta and TikTok have open ad libraries that show what kind of campaigns run on the platforms at the moment. 

Ideas for Crafting Effective Travel Ads

Now let’s sum up what we have seen. Based on successful campaigns from leading companies, here are some straightforward ideas for making ads that connect with viewers and inspire action.

🥰 Make an Emotional Connection

Try to create a strong emotional bond with your audience. Like Agoda's campaign during the pandemic, show you understand and care about your audience's current challenges. Showing support for your clients without pushing for sales can make your brand feel more relatable and trustworthy.

🌍 Keep Up with Trends and News

As suggested in the Kayak example, staying updated with the latest trends and news can make your ads more relevant and engaging. This approach can help your ad become popular and connect with more people.

🤳 Use Content from Your Customers

‍ Add content made by your customers, as it's cost-effective and acts as proof of trust. Ads with content from users can make your brand seem more credible and expand your reach to the users' followers, making your company seem more reliable.

✔️ Show Clear Benefits

Make sure your ad clearly shows the unique advantages your service offers, like the Amex Miles Cards ad that focuses on solving a specific problem for its target audience. Ads that clearly state their benefits tend to work better.

🗂️ Target Carefully

‍ Make your message specific for different groups of people, as shown by Airbnb's campaign. The more personalized your ad feels to its viewers, the more effective it will be.

💡 Use Eye-catching Visuals and Easy-to-Remember Slogans

‍ Use striking visuals and catchy slogans to make your ads memorable. Expedia's video ad is a good example of how using emotions with great visuals and a strong slogan can make a big impact.

💰 Promote Special Offers and Benefits

‍ Don't hesitate to highlight special access, discounts, or special deals, as Amex Travel does. These incentives can be a key factor for people thinking about making a purchase.

➡️ Have a Clear Call-to-Action (CTA)

‍ Your ad should have a straightforward CTA, telling viewers exactly what to do next. Whether it's booking a trip, looking at discounts, or signing up for an email list, make the next step clear.

🍁 Take Advantage of Seasonal Trends

‍ Use seasonal trends and holidays to make your ads feel more timely and relevant. Booking.com's banner ad related to New Year's resolutions is a great example of how to connect with people's mindsets during different seasons and holidays.

By applying these simpler ideas, drawn from the practices of top travel companies, you can create effective travel ads that grab attention, spark interest, and get viewers to engage with your brand.

Unlock Your Potential with Promodo

We know managing ads can be tough. To make a successful campaign, you need strategic approach and creativity. But you don't have to figure it out by yourself. Promodo experts are ready to help you every step of the way, from researching the market and running A/B tests to launching pay-per-click campaigns and analyzing the results. Get in touch with us today, and let's talk about how we can help you reach your goals.

Here is the feedback we got after working on destination marketing for National Tourism Department of Seychelles:

Content Marketing Manager at Promodo

Immersing myself fully in any topic I explore and my appreciation for simplicity are the driving forces behind my work.

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5 travel & tourism ads to inspire your next creative video campaign .

In the captivating realm of travel and tourism, where the allure of places near and far call out, the power of video advertising holds a remarkable sway.

Our new e-book, “ Taking Off: Understanding Today’s Leisure Traveler , ” found that video content is unmatched in influencing travel planning and purchase intent, making a compelling video campaign essential in reaching leisure travelers and attracting them to your destination.  

Let’s embark on a journey of inspiration as we unveil five extraordinary travel and tourism advertisements that have mastered the art of sparking wanderlust and igniting the desire for exploration. These ads serve as a treasure trove of ideas, showcasing how the fusion of imagination and marketing prowess can pave the way for unforgettable campaigns that beckon travelers to pack their bags and set forth on their next great adventure. Here are five travel and tourism ads from Team TEGNA to inspire your next creative video campaign. 

1. Great Day Houston Inspires Viewers to Visit Frisco  

Lifestyle marketing is a great way to attract visitors, of course, with the help of the halo effect. Partnering with local news organization KHOU, the city of Frisco, Texas, appeared on Great Day Houston to educate viewers on all the fun and exciting things to do – from sports and live music to shopping and dining. What else would you want from a trip that is only a four-hour drive from Houston?  

2. Hitting the Augusta Wine Trail with Friends and Family  

Getting together and catching up with family and friends is a big reason for travel, and this 30-second spot produced by KSDK plays on that sentiment, encouraging viewers to create memories and celebrate milestones with loved ones. At the trail’s end, viewers are encouraged to visit the Augusta Wine Trail’s website to learn more.    

3. WXIA Piques the Interest of Viewers to Discover Dahlonega  

Appealing to the rest, relaxation, and slower pace that travelers today crave, this 30-second spot positions Dahlonega as a hidden gem with a lot of “something worth discovering.” Produced by WXIA, this creative spot provides relatable themes and fun for the whole family in what might not be considered a typical vacation hot spot.   

4. KPNX Encourages Viewers to Explore Cochise County  

Another little-known destination, Cochise County in Arizona, wants to change all that. Highlighting everything the county has to offer, this 30-second spot produced by KPNX aims to bring in several demographics: wine enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, young families, and more.  

5. Texas City Tourism Wants You to Pick Ellijay

“ Taking Off: Understanding Today’s Leisure Traveler ” found that 48% of tourists want to visit a destination they can show off on social media. Playing into this sentiment, this spot produced by WXIA shows just what visitors can expect and provides examples of how to formulate their posts.   

Hit the Road with TEGNA  

At TEGNA, our ultimate goal is to equip brands with data and insights to inform and develop creative, then amplify those messages with cross-platform campaigns, including linear , streaming , and digital elements. With 64 broadcast stations in 51 markets nationwide, our unique content opportunities will connect your business to the audiences that matter most and deliver proven results. Let’s get in touch to see how we can help your brand grow with the power of TV advertising.  

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6 ideas for travel and tourism advertising campaigns (with examples)

Want to create eye-catching travel ads like Expedia, Southwest Airlines, and KAYAK?

As travel starts to pick up again, it’s time to get serious about your advertising. Tour operators can hugely benefit from paid ads — but with so many forms of advertising available across different platforms, you may be wondering where to start.

In this post, we’re sharing actionable strategies to build better ad campaigns that appeal to your target audience, plus top-level examples from the brands who do it best.

Top factors to consider for travel advertising campaigns

Want to see more positive results from ads? Keep these strategies in mind when crafting your future marketing campaigns .

1. Define your target customer

Do you know who your customers are? Before you begin crafting an ad campaign, you need to know more about your guests.

Building a buyer persona is a strategic way for tour businesses to get to know their customers. A buyer persona is a visual representation of your ideal customer: Dig into their demographics, study their behaviors on your website, and send surveys to your email list to find out more.

The takeaway? You’ll find a much higher ROI with ad campaigns that specifically appeal to your target audience.

2. Understand the travel customer journey

It’s difficult to sell a tour to someone who hasn’t decided on a destination yet. Ideally, you want to show your ads to people when they’re most likely to book.

Understanding the travel customer journey can help you pinpoint when that is. Google defines the travel search process in four stages:

• Dreaming: Guests are looking for destination inspiration.
• Planning: Guests are researching potential travel dates, hotels, and activities.
• Booking: Guests are booking flights, hotels, etc.
• Experiencing: Guests have arrived and are searching for activities and attractions to experience.

Tour operators are likely to see more conversions in the “booking” and “experiencing” stages. For example, if you’re investing in Google Ads, it’s better to target narrow search terms like “best hiking tours in Colorado,” which is what someone in the booking or experiencing stage would search for.

People in the dreaming stage, on the other hand, would likely be searching overly broad terms like “best summer destinations.”

3. Choose the right platform

There are several different platforms to launch your advertising campaigns, and choosing the right one matters. Where is your audience most likely to see your ad? Where are they already hanging out?

Here are five popular travel advertising outlets:

• Google Ads: Show up at the top of Google search results for relevant keywords.
• Social media ads: Target specific demographics on Facebook and Instagram.
• Yelp ads: Appear to people searching for similar experiences on Yelp.
• Tripadvisor ads: Target people planning a trip to your destination.
• Email marketing: Offer discounts to your email list, one of the more cost-effective ways to advertise.

4. Pay attention to seasonality

Timing is one of the most important factors in travel advertising. Keep seasonality in mind when crafting your campaigns, and remember to edit previously launched campaigns as needed.

A skiing ad won’t make sense at the beginning of summer, so make sure to pause seasonally irrelevant campaigns.

5. Stay true to your brand

Your ad campaigns should reflect your brand identity. People who click on your advertisements are expecting to find the same tone of voice, visuals, and customer experience on your website.

6. Use geographic targeting 

Rather than making your ad visible everywhere on the planet, you can target specific locations your guests are likely to be in. For example, you can target other tourism websites in your state to lure in tourists who are already visiting.

By narrowing down your ad’s geographic reach, you can maximize your budget and focus on the areas that’ll bring you the most return.

7. Promote your sales and special offers

What better way to entice someone to click on your ad than to present them with an unbeatable offer? Advertisements are an effective way to promote your sales, especially seasonal offers. You can send out an ad offering a great discount during the low season to help replenish your bookings, for example.

Pro Tip: One of the simplest ways to do this is by creating coupon codes. Here is how easy it is to create a new coupon code in Xola.

8. Leverage user-generated content 

Sometimes you can generate an ad campaign with user-generated content alone. It’s another cost-effective way to bring more eyes to your tour company.

You can start by encouraging guests to use your brand’s hashtags, share their photos with their own followers, or even submit photos on your website. Apps, like Fotaflo , which integrates natively with Xola, make the process of curating UGC photos and videos easier. Tour operators can also offer incentives for anyone who posts on social media about your tours, such as hosting a giveaway for everyone who uses a hashtag related to your brand.

Tour operator Intrepid Travel asks guests to share their experiences on Instagram with the hashtag #BeIntrepid , for example, which has garnered over 50,000 posts.

Guests typically love seeing their content reposted on other accounts. Still, make sure to always credit the original owner. To avoid serious copyright issues, many brands ask followers to agree to a disclaimer about how and where the images will be used before re-posting them.

Reviews can also be considered user-generated content — but tour operators need to be very careful when it comes to encouraging guests to leave positive reviews. Tripadvisor prohibits brands from offering incentives in exchange for testimonials “because they can hinder the validity and accuracy of reviews.”

9. Use images and videos

Images and videos are the most powerful form of advertising in the travel industry. High-quality images of your destination and scenes from your tours can entice hundreds of clicks. An expertly crafted video can drive even more engagement.

Instagram and Facebook are great places to start experimenting with image and video ads; see a couple of great examples below.

6 examples of great travel advertising examples 

Ready to see these strategies in action? Here are six travel brands that have nailed their travel marketing — including examples of general ad campaigns, paid search ads, and social media ads.

Expedia’s campaign: “It matters who you travel with.” 

This Expedia campaign wants travelers to feel confident booking with the platform in a post-pandemic travel world. The tagline “It matters who you travel with” frames the company as a trusted travel partner rather than just a booking platform.

The company created a playful and very relatable video of a solo traveler who runs into several hiccups on her trip. That is until actress Rashida Jones steps in, embodying Expedia, and makes the trip more memorable.

The company chose a video to expertly convey its marketing message to travelers: Expedia promises a seamless trip and memorable experiences you can’t find on your own.

Southwest’s Transfarency campaign

Southwest Air Lines’ new campaign targets the controversial topic of ticket prices. The company has always billed itself as a transparent brand that cares about employees and customers alike. The new campaign called Trans fare ncy , a play on the words transparency and airfare, builds on that reputation.

The campaign promises customers no unexpected bag fees, change fees, or hidden fees. It’s a great advertisement because it fits perfectly within Southwest’s brand identity, and the airline delivers on the promise.

TourRadar’s travel and destination Facebook ads

Vienna-based TourRadar launched a Facebook campaign to increase bookings from people who had visited its website. The company used visually stunning travel ads to promote relevant tours to people who had browsed the same tours online.

The company also promoted relevant destination offers and tours to people who hadn’t visited their website yet but had shown interest in the destination. The campaign focused on the company’s core markets, including the U.S., the U.K., Australia, and New Zealand.

It was a success: TourRadar doubled its conversion rate over a year.

KAYAK’s video ads on Instagram

KAYAK ran video ads on Instagram to bring more people to its website, including one that shows how simple it is to filter flights by airline, price, number of stops, and destination.  

The company played around with ad placement in both Stories and the News Feed, and each ad had a “book now” or “learn more” call-to-action button that linked back to the KAYAK website.

The ads were shown to a lookalike audience based on the travel search engine’s existing audience, which increased the likelihood of clicks. As a result, KAYAK saw a 5x increase in incremental sales conversions.

Airbnb Experiences search ad

Airbnb is targeting people who search for outdoor activities in Colorado to promote its local-led tours. In this example specifically, Airbnb’s paid search ad for a hiking tour shows up under the search for “best hiking in Colorado.”

The title “Hiking in the Rockies – Year Round” quickly answers the questions of “where” and “when,” two details that directly impact the customer’s trip. The wording of the title narrows down the search for the searcher. The description focuses on Airbnb’s unique offerings — “hosted by expert locals,” “experiences vetted for quality,” and “small group sizes — further enticing readers to click.

It’s a great example of Airbnb using a feature other than its main accommodation services to bring people into its website.

Viator’s Brooklyn food tours search ad

Here’s another effective Google Ad example. Viator is promoting its food and wine tours in Brooklyn under the search term “Brooklyn food tours.” 

Unlike the other search ads that pop up, Viator specifically mentions the keywords that the customer will be skimming the page for and includes another enticing offer.

Viator includes “Book & Save Money” in its title, directly appealing to money-conscious travelers visiting a destination known for being very expensive. Therefore, this ad specifically speaks to budget or mid-range travelers who appreciate a good deal.

As you can tell from these examples, an effective ad campaign is crafted around your ideal audience. Top travel companies like Viator and Southwest use words, images, and videos to appeal to their target customers, and your campaigns should follow suit.

Now it’s time to implement these strategies into your own campaigns. Then sit back, relax, and watch those bookings soar.

Writer Carla Vianna

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Tourism advertisements play a crucial role in enticing travellers to explore new destinations. These promotional campaigns serve as a window into the wonders of a place, capturing the essence of its culture, landscapes, and unique attractions. Through vibrant visuals and compelling narratives, such advertisements ignite the curiosity and wanderlust of potential tourists.

Consider the breathtaking images of pristine beaches, historic landmarks, and lively local markets showcased in travel ads. These visuals create a sense of longing, prompting individuals to go on a journey to experience these wonders firsthand. The power of persuasion lies in the carefully crafted messages that highlight the distinctive features and hospitality of a destination.

Moreover, tourism advertisements contribute significantly to the economic growth of a region by attracting visitors and stimulating local businesses. A well-designed campaign not only promotes tourism but also fosters cultural exchange and understanding. 

What is a Tourism advertisement?

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Tourism advertisement serves as a compelling window into the wonders of a destination, enticing potential travellers with a visual and narrative showcase. It is a strategic communication tool employed by regions, cities, or countries to promote their unique attractions, cultural heritage, and recreational offerings. These advertisements aim to capture the imagination of the audience, fueling a desire to explore and experience the featured locale.

Typically, tourism advertisements employ vivid imagery and engaging storytelling to highlight the scenic beauty, historical significance, and diverse activities awaiting visitors. From breathtaking landscapes to vibrant city life, these promotions strive to evoke a sense of wanderlust and adventure. The use of catchy slogans, upbeat music, and relatable experiences further enhances the allure.

By showcasing the essence of a destination, these campaigns contribute not only to economic growth through increased tourism but also to cultural exchange and mutual understanding between people from different parts of the world. 

Importance of Tourism advertisement

Tourism advertisements play a pivotal role in promoting destinations and fostering economic growth. These campaigns act as enticing windows into the diverse and captivating offerings of a place, captivating potential visitors. The significance of tourism advertising lies in its ability to create awareness and spark interest, driving people to explore new locales. It serves as a virtual introduction, showcasing the unique cultural, historical, and natural attractions a destination has to offer.

In addition to attracting tourists, these advertisements contribute significantly to the local economy. A surge in tourism leads to increased revenue for businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, and local artisans. The economic impact extends beyond immediate tourism-related sectors, positively influencing the overall prosperity of a region. Furthermore, successful tourism campaigns can enhance a location’s global image, making it a desirable and memorable destination.

Tourism advertisements act as powerful catalysts, stimulating both curiosity and economic development. They transform mere places on a map into vibrant, sought-after experiences, benefitting not only the tourism industry but also the communities that thrive on the influx of visitors.

Top 9 Tourism Advertisement Examples

Here are the top 9 Tourism advertisement examples!

“Incredible India” Campaign

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The “Incredible India” campaign stands as a shining example of effective tourism promotion, inviting people from around the world to discover the myriad wonders of the Indian subcontinent. Showcasing India’s diverse tapestry, the campaign paints a vivid picture of the country’s rich cultural heritage, historical treasures, and breathtaking landscapes.

Through a combination of captivating visuals and compelling narratives, “Incredible India” captures the essence of the nation, from the iconic Taj Mahal to the vibrant festivals and bustling markets. The campaign serves as a virtual journey, enticing travellers with the promise of a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the campaign plays a crucial role in promoting economic growth. By attracting tourists, it generates revenue for local businesses, hotels, and artisans, contributing to the overall prosperity of communities across the country. It stands testament to the power of tourism campaigns in not just attracting visitors but also in fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of a nation’s cultural treasures.

“Pure New Zealand” Tourism

Pure New Zealand’s tourism campaign stands out as a captivating invitation to explore the enchanting landscapes and warm hospitality of this island nation. Through picturesque visuals and heartfelt narratives, the campaign showcases New Zealand as a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. It skillfully captures the essence of the country’s pristine beauty, from the majestic mountains to the breathtaking fjords and crystal-clear lakes.

The advertisement emphasises the diverse range of experiences available in New Zealand, from thrilling outdoor activities like bungee jumping and hiking to the serene beauty of its beaches and lush greenery. 

With a focus on authenticity and the friendliness of the Kiwi people, Pure New Zealand successfully creates an emotional connection with potential travellers. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the campaign contributes significantly to the country’s tourism industry, attracting a global audience and boosting the economy. 

“Australia – There’s Nothing Like Australia”

Australia’s tourism campaign, “There’s Nothing Like Australia,” encapsulates the essence of the country’s allure in a captivating way. This campaign goes beyond showcasing the iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and the Great Barrier Reef; it taps into the unique spirit of the continent. The advertisements emphasise Australia’s vast and diverse landscapes, from the arid beauty of the Outback to the pristine beaches of the Gold Coast.

The campaign cleverly intertwines adventure and relaxation, portraying Australia as a destination where travellers can experience a perfect blend of excitement and tranquillity. Whether it’s the vibrant cities, the rich indigenous culture, or the extraordinary wildlife, the message is clear – Australia offers a one-of-a-kind experience.

By highlighting the distinctiveness of the Australian lifestyle, the campaign creates a sense of curiosity and a desire to explore. It is not just about a place; it’s about an unmatched experience that leaves a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to visit. “There’s Nothing Like Australia” serves as an effective invitation, inviting the world to discover the magic and uniqueness that define this remarkable destination.

“Best Job in the World” – Tourism Queensland

Tourism Queensland’s “Best Job in the World” campaign stands out as a captivating example of destination marketing. In this innovative approach, the Australian region sought a caretaker for the Great Barrier Reef, turning the job search into a global sensation. 

The allure of the “Best Job in the World” stemmed from the promise of not just a job but a life-changing experience. The campaign successfully harnessed the power of social media and word-of-mouth, generating widespread excitement and global attention. It not only attracted applicants from around the world but also highlighted Queensland’s natural wonders, positioning it as an ideal destination for adventure seekers.

This campaign serves as a testament to the effectiveness of creativity in tourism marketing, demonstrating that an imaginative and unique approach can turn a destination into a global phenomenon, enticing travellers to explore the wonders that places like Tourism Queensland have to offer.

“Visit California Dream Big” Campaign

“Visit California Dream Big” stands out as a premier tourism campaign, enticing travellers to explore the diverse wonders of the Golden State. The campaign captures the essence of California’s allure, showcasing a tapestry of experiences that cater to every taste and interest.

With iconic destinations like Hollywood, Disneyland, and the majestic Yosemite National Park, “Visit California Dream Big” invites visitors to indulge in a myriad of adventures. 

Moreover, the campaign goes beyond showcasing attractions, emphasising the laid-back Californian lifestyle and cultural richness. Whether it’s surfing on the Pacific coast, hiking in the Sierra Nevada mountains, or exploring the tech hub of Silicon Valley, the campaign encourages visitors to dream big and immerse themselves in the diverse offerings of the state.

“Japan – Endless Discovery”

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“Japan – Endless Discovery” stands out as a compelling tourism advertisement, captivating hearts with its portrayal of a country that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation. The campaign paints a vivid picture of Japan’s allure, showcasing its timeless temples, serene gardens, and the iconic cherry blossoms that define its landscape. 

The essence of the campaign lies in the promise of endless exploration. It invites travellers to discover the profound beauty of ancient tea ceremonies, historic castles, and the captivating allure of geisha traditions. At the same time, it beckons them to explore the cutting-edge advancements in robotics and immerse themselves in the dynamic energy of contemporary Japan.

“Japan – Endless Discovery” isn’t just an advertisement; it’s an invitation to go on a journey that unfolds a tapestry of contrasts, where the past seamlessly integrates with the future. In doing so, it captures the imagination of those seeking a travel experience that transcends time and tradition.

“I Amsterdam” City Advertising

“I Amsterdam” City advertising stands out as a stellar example of tourism advertising, using a simple yet powerful message to attract visitors to the Dutch capital. The campaign encapsulates the essence of Amsterdam, focusing on its open-minded culture, rich history, and diverse offerings. The iconic red and white letters spelling “I Amsterdam” have become synonymous with the city, creating a visual identity that resonates globally.

The campaign cleverly promotes not just the city’s famous landmarks like the Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum but also the everyday experiences that make Amsterdam special – from cycling along picturesque canals to exploring vibrant neighbourhoods. 

This approach has successfully attracted a broad audience, making Amsterdam not just a place to visit but a city to experience. The campaign’s simplicity and authenticity make it a standout example of how effective tourism advertising can capture the spirit of a destination and inspire travellers to explore its unique charm.

“Malaysia, Truly Asia”

“Malaysia, Truly Asia” stands out as a compelling tourism advertisement that beckons travellers to explore the diverse wonders of this Southeast Asian gem. The campaign encapsulates Malaysia’s unique charm by showcasing its cultural richness, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. With a tagline that resonates, it promises an authentic Asian experience.

The advertisement takes viewers on a visual journey, unveiling the country’s multifaceted identity. From the bustling street markets of Kuala Lumpur to the serene beaches of Langkawi and the historic sites of Penang, it paints a vivid picture of Malaysia’s cultural tapestry. 

“Malaysia, Truly Asia” is not just a tagline; it’s an invitation to discover a nation where modernity meets tradition, and where every step is a venture into a new, enriching experience. Through this campaign, Malaysia captures the hearts of global travellers, making it a must-visit destination that lives up to its promise of being truly Asia.

“South Africa – It’s Possible”

“South Africa – It’s Possible” stands as a compelling tourism advertisement, beckoning travellers to explore the wonders of this diverse nation. The campaign paints a vivid picture of South Africa’s possibilities, from its mesmerising landscapes to its vibrant cultural tapestry. The advertisement showcases the majestic wildlife in its natural habitats, like the renowned Big Five, enticing animal lovers and adventure seekers.

Moreover, the campaign captures the essence of South Africa’s rich history and cultural heritage, inviting visitors to delve into its multicultural communities and experience the warmth of its people. The phrase “It’s Possible” serves as both an invitation and a promise, suggesting that whatever one dreams of experiencing, South Africa can make it a reality.

From the iconic Table Mountain to the golden beaches and bustling cities, the advertisement encapsulates the breadth of experiences awaiting travellers. By effectively combining stunning visuals and a positive, inclusive message, “South Africa – It’s Possible” succeeds in not only promoting tourism but also in creating a sense of optimism and excitement about the limitless possibility.

Final Thoughts

Tourism advertisements are like magical doorways that open up the world’s wonders. They use captivating images and stories to make you dream of far-off places, enticing you to pack your bags and explore. From Incredible India to the serene beaches of Malaysia, these campaigns not only showcase a destination’s beauty but also bring economic growth and cultural exchange.

Suksham Goyal

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10 Awesome Travel Marketing Films That Are Worth Booking A Trip Over

Many countries are vying for tourists' attention, with some going to creative, peculiar lengths to impress the world via awesome travel ads.

Marketing campaigns are very much like Yorkshire puddings. Made well and baked in an oven that's having a good day (plus a sprinkling of luck), they rise to glorious heights — one could even say they're life-changing. A bad Yorkshire pudding, though, can ruin a Yorkshirian's week and all those who sample said pudding, bringing shame upon the maker's family and leaving disappointed taste buds with much to desire.

Joking, of course, but people can at least laugh about god-awful Yorkshire pudding — that indulgent, chunky, golden lump of baked batter, ruined (however, passionate Yorkshirans might get a little emotional about a truly horrendous one). That's a terrible analogy to try to make a point. Satire aside, the same can be said about marketing campaigns.

When they excel, they go viral. Bad? Laughable. That said, one thing's surefire: good or bad, they're memorable — and that's the marketing team's goal. Great success!

There's no force quite like a destination's tourism marketing nerds, especially at a time like now. After over two years of pandemic-related restrictions, borders are open, and countries are falling over themselves to garner tourists' attention. That's why the tourism marketing teams attempt to produce the next blockbuster travel campaign. 2022 was the first travel-friendly year since the pandemic began, after all — a period when restrictions eased up and vacation hotspots desperate for tourist cash bid for travelers' bookings.

Some destinations spent exorbitant sums of money on marketing, shooting stunning footage of their tourist offerings and authentic portrayals of their locations, with many even onboarding celebrities in their marketing content. This surge of national and regional tourist departments worldwide deploying fresh ads to entice international travelers to their lands led to some truly unique content. And, like a Yorkshire pudding, some of these campaigns were outstanding — even iconic. Others, however — well, keep reading to get the picture.

From emotional and beautiful country reopening videos to horror-themed quick flicks and call-to-actions inciting space exploration on Earth (hello, Iceland, you clever rascal, you) , these campaigns from several tourist destinations caught the spotlight in 2022 with their wonderful, wacky, and even weird videos to spark tourism. Indeed, perhaps the most bizarre (and hilarious) of them all was an actual belly touring one of Europe's most famous cities — yes, a rather large tummy evoking (and practically inciting) the important message of sheer indulgence even piggery on one's vacay. What happens on vacation, stays on vacation — and on the waistline, in some epically indulgent cases wherein some travelers go home with more baggage than when they departed.

10 Iceland: Explore Martian Lands (With Two Feet On Earth)

2022 was the year when big-name companies (not naming any names) urged people to travel to outer space for a vacation — an experience reserved for folks with the deepest pockets, that is (sorry, mere mortals with bills to pay).

What Iceland wants holiday-starved globetrotters to know, however, is this: a spaceship isn't necessary to relish a space-like adventure; all anyone needs to do for a once-in-a-lifetime Martian trip is to visit the Land of Ice and Fire instead.

Mission Iceland took tourism marketing to new heights — literally . It launched its first-ever space billboard (indeed, a billboard that reached the stratosphere). This genius campaign encouraged aspiring space tourists to consider Iceland as an alternative destination to the stars. Why?

Well, visitors can experience Mars-like landscapes, with Mission Iceland's core message evidenced by its extraterrestrial beauty and natural splendor: Iceland is a lot like outer space, but better.

There’s zero need to blast off into space (and spend a lifetime's earnings in doing so) when travelers can head to Iceland for a Martian vacation at a fraction of the cost, time, and, perhaps best of all, carbon footprint.

Rolling red hills, black sand beaches , bubbling volcanoes, and some of Europe’s largest glacial lagoons are right here on planet Earth — numerous in Iceland, specifically.

9 Vienna: What Does A Belly Do In Vienna?

What does a belly do in a place commonly cited as the most beautiful city in Europe ? The Vienna Tourist Board's October 2022 campaign answers that question in what's quite possibly the most hilarious yet bizarre advertisement yet from any tourism marketing department.

They even made it into a short film, documenting the life of a literal walking and talking abdomen on a Vienna vacation.

Herr Belly's journey in this video is heartfelt (right in the coronary) and honest: traveling should be a time when those everyday rules relax, and the belly is free to do as belly pleases (or the person, of course — it would appear that Mr. Belly is a comedic metaphor — but done so well in a way that generates sumptuous emotions and a belly full of laughter).

Related: Five Days In Austria: Planning The Perfect Vacation In Under A Week

The six-minute story documents a rotund gut who leaves his human, Harry — who's obsessed with working out. Belly thus jets off to Vienna, where it samples all the city has to offer, meandering through the streets, viewing artworks, and sampling some Sacher torte in its hotel bed.

Human Harry does come to find Belly eventually, which leads to them enjoying a nice date together in a Viennese restaurant.

The finishing line of this cinematic triumph: "The most beautiful way to love yourself is to indulge" — a message reigning true when on a weekend trip to Vienna or a weeks-long escapade anywhere else on the planet.

8 South Africa: Live Again!

Launched in March 2022 — a time when a sizable chunk of the world remained locked down — South Africa's three-minute video was a delightful take on the travel world post-Omicron (when nobody yet knew what was to come).

While the campaign was superb, it was indeed brave after the first cases of the Omicron variant were recorded in South Africa and the nation faced travel bans from many countries around the world.

In the video, a young woman looks fed up with it all in a dark and rainy-looking London — classic British weather (that's why they console themselves with doughy Yorkshire puddings).

She then emerges into the light in Cape Town, South Africa , and colors paint the scene bright with vibrancy — a faraway sight from the grumpy grays of England.

The woman experiences quintessential South African bucket list items, going off on a safari to the Drakensberg escarpment while the nation's natural beauty completes the picture. Despite the breathtaking scenery more than enough to convey the message, the story focuses on human connections that people missed during COVID-19 lockdowns.

Her massage, her mingling with surfers, her sunset beach rides, and her partying that ends the video — these are those connections that everyone took for granted before the pandemic, which became unthinkable throughout its timeline.

After showcasing imagery that leaves viewers feeling as though they know what South Africa is really like , the final message, "Come as you are, leave as you'll never be again. Live again!" ends the emotional journey — telling viewers to enjoy these previously unthinkable experiences once again.

Where better to do so than the sublime, culture-rich, nature-laden lands and shores of South Africa?

7 Sweden: Spellbound

Sweden has given the world many things. Gorgeous green spaces, Abba, IKEA, and Greta Thunberg, to name but a few. Last year, though, this Scandinavian nation delivered possibly the strangest (but coolest?) bid for tourism yet — a Blair Witch-style, cheesy horror flick filmed in the woods.

Right on time for Halloween in 2022, Visit Sweden released a two-minute-long horror short promoting the country. The video is narrated by "Sweden", with the scene set in a forest — representing the country's "soul".

Much like a Hollywood horror, it lulls viewers into a sense of security, showcasing idyllic images — before the quintessential, corny flasher thrills begin.

The story details the character "Sam", who meets a beautiful woman who is, in fact, unbeknownst to him, a huldra — an eerie, creepy forest nymph. The moral of the tale, narrator Sweden warns, is "What happened in the forest is something you will regard as a dream, but that is not how it is going to be."

Not exactly a way to attract tourists, is it? Unless they love scary movies.

Some of the context behind the short film comes from the very end of the film when it also promotes Kiln, a "chilling audio story" by Swedish horror writer John Ajvide Lindqvist, which, according to the ominous tale, is downloadable "in the Swedish forest" — whatever that means.

6 Rwanda: Lionel Messi

It was Lionel Messi's year — and what a way to end playing for his home country's team.

His 2022 World Cup win for Argentina wasn't the only awesome activity he got up to last year, though. Legendary Messi and his Paris Saint-Germain soccer co-star, Sergio Ramos, ventured to Rwanda for Visit Rwanda's 2022 campaign.

The campaign, titled "Tee off your next adventure in Rwanda", was released just before the new year to kickstart the country's tourism once again, featuring a handful of sporting stars to really grab the world's attention.

The 100-second-long video opens with former soccer goalkeeper Jérôme Alonzo, who is seen playing golf during his retirement. The camera follows his golf ball, which lands in the world-famous Parc des Princes stadium before getting kicked around by the players.

Next, the well-traveled ball flies off to Rwanda, gliding through the air over the nation's most breathtaking landscapes.

After some fun cinematography (and cameos from gorillas), the short video returns to the golf course, where a young girl ends the shot with a majestic hole-in-one.

5 Vilnius, Lithuania: Vilnius's Belated Birthday Cards

Lithuania and its attractions offer tourists plenty, particularly the capital city — but what does that even matter if people can't point it out on a map, let alone know it exists?

The city's tourism marketing team evidently understands this reality yet goes with it anyway, reclaiming the world's obliviousness and using it to create a witty video, which so bluntly gets it over and done with from the get-go.

"Nobody knows where Vilnius is", the video proclaims (perhaps even proudly?), and it's that self-deprecating humor that earns the content a spot on this list — it's likable, honest, and charismatic. It says it as it is without dishonest sugar-coating that travel ads are notoriously guilty of.

Even the city’s tourism marketing team can’t argue the truth; they know nobody knows where their city is.

Open up a new tab and look at a map of Europe (there’s a free hint) – five bucks and a bowl of Šaltibarščiai say finding the pot at the end of the rainbow is easier than pointing out Vilnius on an atlas.

Related: Vilnius And Why This Old Lithuanian City Shouldn't Be Missed

Those responsible for the city's tourism campaigns ran with the world's unfamiliarity with Vilnius in previous years, too; they rewrote a Christmas carol dubbed "Christmas in Vilnius: Amazing wherever you think it is" .

That self-mockery at work again — glorious marketing perfection. Heck, this theme is a darn sight more lighthearted than those former campaigns from Vilnius were laced in; in true, hilarious, audacious fashion, the city was branded under a somewhat NSFW but epic name at one point (perhaps check this one on Google; this site is family-friendly!).

Vilnius's latest campaign captures that same self-taking-the-micky-out-of-comedy value but shapes it into a cheeky birthday celebration.

It's all about the city's seven hundredth anniversary — indeed, Vilnius turns 700 in 2023. The retro, '80s-styled video explains, "After most of the world forgot Vilnius' last 699 birthdays, we came up with a solution for its 700th," — the solution being a "belated birthday e-card collection."

The ad showcases several entertaining birthday cards and instructs viewers to send their own.

4 Australia: G'day

Australia's fun, loud, and awesome personality is known worldwide, and its nine-minute film "G'day", captures its essence perfectly.

The video went pretty much viral, gaining 19 million YouTube views — in its first month. Starring Rose Byrne as Ruby, a toy kangaroo, and Will Arnett as Louie, a toy unicorn, the short movie took a leaf out of the long-loved Toy Story's book.

The campaign, "Come and say g'day," follows the pair on an Aussie adventure, starting with their escape from a Great Barrier Reef gift shop. They subsequently venture to Nitmiluk Gorge, Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef, and even the Sydney Opera House.

Finalizing the tale with "Down Under, 'g'day' is the start of every good adventure", Byrne closes the toys' chapter, further ending it with the one-liner, "It's our way of saying, 'If you're not a friend yet, you will be, mate" .

Friendly and endearing (even if feeling scripted), it's a wholesome take on a travel ad (with zero expletives — not what one would typically expect from an Aussie production. Just kidding, kinda ).

3 South Korea: Shall We Play #Korea

"Shall we play Korea " graced screens in November, entailing a fun, short-and-sweet glimpse at South Korea and its best places , and what it offers as a country (clue: it promises something for every kind of visitor — be it family-friendly attractions, fun for the elders, dreams for the kids and teens, and romantic retreats for couples.

From golfing and paragliding to road-tripping across the country, this campaign delivers an important message: there's fun for all. And how can anyone forget K-pop dancing? Well, when in Rome...

2 Morocco: Kingdom Of Light

Morocco means natural wonders , tradition, rich culture, mouthwatering food, remarkable historic attractions, and stunning scenery.

It's a land to which many visitors escape — to get away from the conventional western lifestyle and experience something beautifully different.

In a country like Morocco, tradition and customs are prominent and experiences in themselves, but the country's tourism campaign released in May took them and created a tasty cocktail with the new.

The tasteful video combines the treats that tourists visit Morocco for — the enchanting traditional gifts of Tajines, souks, and the exquisite Badi Palace in Marrakech — with modern Morocco.

Think contemporary dance in the breathtaking Badi Palace, golfing in the undulating Moroccan dunes , and dazzling art exhibitions in the desert. The wonderful background music is the cherry on top, too.

1 Virgin Atlantic: See The World Differently

This entry isn't a destination as such, granted. But give it a chance — it deserves its place on the list.

Virgin Atlantic is one of the world's most famous airlines; most people recognize the brand, and a heck of a lot more will now, thanks to its wholesome yet totally cool ad that does things, well, a little differently.

Titled "See the world differently" , the campaign certainly practices what it preaches. It starts out unassuming, leaving viewers with the ordinary thought, "urgh, another cheesy airline ad?".

Featuring smartly uniformed flight attendants, airport scenes, and travelers rushing through, indeed, the video does feel like nothing special — but that internal voice ends very quickly. The quirky passengers and fabulous airline staff break the norm seconds in.

They're no same-same Jane and John Does nor supermodels; they're funny-face-pulling punk rockers, fierce male flight attendants with fabulous glittering make-up (who can clearly walk like catwalk models, by the way), colorful suit-donning guys wearing shades indoors, and cute-n-cheeky kids, among other unconventional characters.

Wouldn't put it past them not to be sandals-and-socks wearers, too.

The picture's painted; it's a cool ad showing off the beauty of diversity in the human population — but it does it in such a fun, electric way that it's hard to pull the eyes away from the screen. And goodness , the soundtrack — it's sensational.

The backing tune is as positively upbeat as it is catchy, a cover by jazz/soul artist Lady Blackbird of the 1983 Broadway hit song "I am what I am" , which was originally composed by Jerry Herman for the musical La Cage aux Folles .

The music, perfectly blended with the filming, leaves the end of the ad feeling utterly wholesome as if viewers have just returned from a journey with these funky folks on board the sizable aircraft.

The ending? Cool as heck. It finalizes with a James Bond-like scene, a female pilot jetting her plane full of passengers off into the sunset horizon — what a way to inspire travelers and little girls simultaneously, the latter informed without any words that they, too, can become a pilot if they so desire. Seriously, just watch it and feel the feels.

Bravo, Virgin Atlantic , bravo. Is an encore too much to ask?

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LVCVA returns to humor in newest video ad campaign

When a new series of video advertisements debuts next week, the LVCVA returns to humorous storytelling to present a message for people to visit Las Vegas.

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority is returning to humorous storytelling with next week’s debut of a multimillion-dollar consumer advertising campaign to boost tourism.

The LVCVA board of directors on Tuesday got its first look at a pair of 30-second and 45-second video ads that give potential visitors permission to make time for themselves for a trip to Vegas.

“The kids are back in school, the in-laws are back home, we’ve done our family reunions and done all these other obligations we’ve needed to meet,” said LVCVA Chief Marketing Officer Kate Wik. “Now, we need time for ourselves. This campaign is speaking directly to the general consumer and connecting with them and letting them know that they have permission to carve out time for themselves, and there is no better answer to meet that need than Las Vegas.”

The ads, which show no Las Vegas imagery, feature parents interacting with their children and finding reasons they can leave their kids at home and go to Las Vegas on their own. “Storytime” features a parent telling his child that Las Vegas is full of broccoli and dentists — which results in the child not wanting to go to Las Vegas.

“Grounded” shows parents disciplining their teen daughter by leaving her at home with a grandparent. The ad text adds, “You can bring your family to Vegas, but why would you?”

“It’s very fun and it’s very sweet and it’s also very understated and clever how it does that,” Wik said. “It connects with the consumer on the level that ‘This is what I need. It’s my time to escape.’ It’s permission to escape. They’re not bad parents. They’re not irresponsible. They need a moment to themselves. That’s the insight consumers will be able to connect with. ”

The first phase of the campaign will debut Monday in key tourism markets of Los Angeles, Phoenix, San Diego, Denver, Dallas, Chicago, San Francisco and New York City. The creative team, led by advertising consultant R&R Partners, will evaluate the response and develop a second phase of ads after the holidays. Because of the split, the LVCVA doesn’t have a cost estimate for the campaign, but the organization’s 2022-23 budget included $94 million for advertising.

“I expect we’re going to see a lot of buzz on social (media),” Wik said. “I think there’s going to be a lot of trade media discussions about it and I think it’s going to be a warm welcome getting back into humor, showing this attitude that Vegas is known for. I think they’re going to be very well received.”

R&R Partners principal Billy Vassiliadis said LVCVA research was used to form the basis of the ad content, learning how Las Vegas resonates with consumers.

Vassiliadis turned the project over to a new set of eyes — R&R Chief Creative Officer Guto Araki, who has been with the company six months — to present a fresh perspective. He was introduced to the board Tuesday.

“Part of what we needed is something less serious for every moment of our lives,” Vassiliadis said. “It’s funny, interesting, new and fresh and, in my opinion, has a lot of future.”

The LVCVA isn’t doing any television network buys for the campaign, relying instead on digitally connected TV, digital video and YouTube. Radio and outdoor ad buys are planned. Vassiliadis noted that with political ads dominating the airwaves, network ad buys have become prohibitively expensive.

The potential for new stories to tell harkens to the “What Happens Here, Stays Here” ad campaign that flourished after it debuted in 2003. Regarded as one of the most successful advertising campaigns in history, new ads were created over more than a decade with the popular tagline.

“What we want to do is create that sense of what is Vegas going to do next?” Wik said. “What’s the next thing they’re going to release? We want to get back into that cadence of constantly connecting in storytelling with our audience.”

Contact Richard N. Velotta at [email protected] or 702-477-3893. Follow @RickVelotta on Twitter.

Mexico’s busiest commercial air carrier, discounter Volaris, will begin nonstop round trips between this city and Harry Reid International Airport.

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Atomic Golf customers had called its bays “stifling.” The off-Strip facility said it has fixed its system and is offering guests other ways to stay cool.

The 303-unit building is expected to be a mix of about 60 percent hotel rooms and 40 percent apartments.

Re-creations of Central Perk and other sets, along with original props and costumes, will be on display at “The ‘Friends’ Experience.”

James Ashby says One Nation will not remove satirical video of Robert Irwin despite legal threat

Pauline Hanson is ignoring a legal threat to remove a One Nation cartoon featuring Robert Irwin which the celebrity figure claims is defamatory.

One Nation published a two-minute video on Friday called 'The State of Queensland' which used Robert Irwin and popular children's character Bluey to mock the state government over perceived failings ahead of the election in October.

Mr Irwin has threatened to sue for defamation over the clip, which One Nation described as "tongue-in-cheek" and features Irwin's misadventures with Bluey through Queensland.

In the video, their car is stolen by "juvenile delinquents" before Bluey falls into a giant pothole on the Bruce Highway.

"Oh no!" Mr Irwin's character exclaims.

"Lucky the state of Queensland's got a world-class medical system."

Another character then laments there's a six-month wait for treatment.

'Unauthorised and deceptive'

Mr Irwin and Bluey have featured prominently in a recent Queensland government tourism campaign to lure visitors to the state.

The legal letter from Sunshine Coast lawyer Zoe Naylor accused the video's producers of "unauthorised and deceptive use of our client's image".

"We demand that you remove this video," the letter states.

Mr Irwin claimed, through his lawyer, that the "egregious" video may mislead viewers into believing he is aligned with One Nation.

"Robert Irwin is heavily associated with the Irwin Family and the Australia Zoo, which are all recognisable brands."

Mr Irwin's lawyer threatened to apply for an injunction and commence defamation proceedings if the cartoon was not removed by 5pm on Monday.

'Robert needs to lighten up'

Ms Hanson's chief of staff James Ashby, who will also contest the seat of Keppel in the upcoming state election, said the legal threat came as a surprise.

"It's hard to know exactly what Robert is offended by, because the reality is Robert was the hero in the episode, not the villain," Mr Ashby said.

"I think Robert just needs to lighten up. I really think he's [kicked] an own goal here.

"His dad always had a good sense of humour and most Queenslanders, most Aussies, always saw that larrikin side of Steve."

'Weak' claim will 'backfire': expert

Defamation lawyer Justin Quill described Mr Irwin's claim as "pretty weak".

"I think it's pretty obvious to anyone watching this video that it's a parody, that it's a joke, that it's not real, that he hasn't authorised it, and that this is really a One Nation political statement," Mr Quill said.

"It's just a case of someone who doesn't want it there and wants to use legal means to try and have it removed, but I don't think he'll be successful.

Mr Quill said the legal threat is likely to amplify the audience of the clip.

"I suspect 90-something per cent of the people who end up seeing this [cartoon] will only see it because of this legal claim," he said.

Media lawyer Jake Blundell agreed.

"Frankly, I wouldn't know that the video existed if it wasn't for Robert Irwin's letter being reported on," he said.

Mr Blundell cast doubt on whether Mr Irwin would be able to prove "serious harm" to the level required by defamation law.

"There's a consumer law issue around making a representation to the public that there is a sponsorship approval or affiliation between One Nation and Mr Irwin … but that's a separate question," he said.

An invitation to dinner

Mr Ashby invited Mr Irwin to dinner with Ms Hanson to discuss the issue.

"More than happy to do steak and veg around the fire … This Friday, he's welcome. Just say the word Robert."

Mr Ashby said Robert Irwin had inadvertently given more oxygen to the cartoon by threatening legal action.

"I don't think Robert's really thought this through. [It's] obviously poorly advised by somebody, either his lawyers or a media person," he said.

"People that have never even seen the cartoon series before are now well-aware of it.

"So if anything, he's done us a favour and I say 'thank you' to Robert for that."

Mr Ashby said the party had sought counsel from leading defamation barrister Sue Chrysanthou.

"One Nation have got no intention of taking the video down," he said.

By Sunday afternoon, the video had 120,000 views on YouTube and 86,000 views on Facebook.

The ABC has contacted Robert Irwin and his lawyer for comment.

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