Advertising a Travel Website ...

[JanaeK]

I have started a website promoting my country- The Bahamas, a group of islands - targeting locals as well as tourists. The website showcases what the Bahamas have to offer from island information, dining, shopping, hotels etc.

I have many ways of reaching the locals (people, as well as business owners) but I need advice on ways I can reach tourists/travelers.

I know I can create Facebook ads and Google Ads but I would like some "Free" ways to do so.

Thanks in advance!

[G56Ace]

You have to spend money to make money.
Google Adwords is very very effective, because not only can you advertise on Google itself, but thousands (or millions) of other websites using Adsense for advertising.

Some other forms of advertising:
BuySellAds.com (Fixed Monthly Prices)
Craigslist.com (Free)
Kontera (Text Ads like those you see on your post)
Private Ads (Contact website owners to see if you can advertise your website privately on their website)

[JanaeK]

Thanks alot! I want to explore all options of advertising starting with my Free options and I will gradually transition into purchasing advertising space.

[element94]

How about getting in touch with travel agencies for joint ventures ?

[DeniseTaylor]

Here's something you could try:

Have a contest!

Have a contest on the best vacation photo, or the best vacation story, etc. and have contestants invite their family/friends to vote or link to their page.

The one with the most votes wins!

This can be an ongoing thing, and can be promoted through newspapers, press releases, or any other channel you can think of.

You just have to pick a prize and have a way to people to vote on your site.

[JanaeK]

Thanks Denise. That is one of the ideas I have for site promotion when it actually launches. I need more ideas on targeting tourists before they come to The Bahamas from countries like the U.S., Canada etc. The majority of tourists are cruise ship passengers so I have starting researching where I can get in contact with these passengers be it on the cruise site forums, travel agencies etc.

Seeing as though I can easily access them when they are in port I will go that way for now by handing out flyers to get them to share their vacation experiences, and visit the site whilst they are still in port so that they can get more information.

[BarbaraKParker]

You can also look for travel coupons and discounts that you can share with your clients.

[JanaeK]

You can find out a bit more about the site's concept by visiting Bahamas Spot Buzzer - Ultimate guide on living and loving Life in The Bahamas

[JessicaAutumn]

Hi! Have you tried distributing promotional products for your business so that people can know your business more

[JanaeK]

no i haven't but a great idea just popped into my head. Thanks!!!