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December Launch for "All New" Travelwisconsin.com 

In just a few short weeks, the Department will launch a redesigned travelwisconsin.com and an improved Extranet program. The goal of the new site is to be more than just a state tourism site but a trusted, user-friendly "guidebook" that visitors can turn to for undiscovered getaway ideas and informed travel advice.

The visual and functional aspects of the makeover include enhanced navigation that guides visitors based on activities and experiences; a clean design that puts the emphasis on editorial content, photography and cross-promotion; and, interactive Google maps integrated throughout the site. The site will allow users to read about and explore new places to enjoy their favorite activities, as well as discover new activities to try in their favorite destinations. The improved site is built to provide travelers with more direct access to detailed information available on local Web sites, and also offers a more powerful - yet easy-to-use - site search.

A facelift for the Extranet program includes a streamlined submission process that captures only the most essential data for the traveler, leaving fewer screens for partners to navigate when entering travel items. All items entered in the current Extranet prior to November 2nd will automatically migrate to the new site. Extranet partners should expect to receive more detailed information and access to the new system in the weeks leading up to the launch.

While the new site has a scheduled launch of late December, video travelogues, user reviews, and a range of new content features are scheduled to roll out throughout 2007.

Travel Green Wisconsin Now Open Statewide 

The Travel Green Wisconsin business certification program is now available to all tourism businesses throughout the state. If you, or a business in your area, are interested in achieving certification, several information and training sessions are scheduled throughout the state in the next few months. The first session is scheduled for Thursday, November 9 at 5:00 pm at the Mineral Point Comfort Inn. Contact Will Christianson at 608-267-3686 to reserve space in this free workshop. Workshops in Green Bay and Milwaukee are in the works for early 2007.

Getting the Most Marketing Advantage from the Welcome Centers 

Each year, the 10 Wisconsin Welcome Centers connect 1.2 million visitors with information about the state's travel and hospitality industry. So how do you get your travel opportunity in front of these millions of potential customers?

• Display Space/Case - Many centers have space suitable for creative, eye-catching displays that draw attention to your offering and provide a value-added experience for the visitor. Welcome Center staff can do the set up if you choose to mail your materials

• Drawings/Promotions - Travelers like free stuff. So what can you offer? Anything from a basket of cranberry goodies to a weekend golf getaway. You decide what will best grab their attention.

• Demonstrations - Immerse customers in your unique experience by utilizing costumed actors, ethnic dancers, voyageurs, local chefs, or artists at the Welcome Centers.

• Food Samples - Do you have an agricultural or specialty food producer in your area willing to provide free samples to one or all the centers? Customers won't forget their culinary experience or where it came from. Add a brochure so visitors can find more tasty treats.

• Promotional Items - Keep visitors thinking about you long after their stop at a Welcome Center. It's also a great way to get your phone number or website in their hands.

• Posters - Don't miss this opportunity to sell a special event or limited time offer in an inexpensive, yet effective way.

• DVDs/Videos - Pictures are worth a thousand words and a video is worth even more. Show off the attributes of your destination by providing a DVD or video. We'll feature your guide at the same time for maximum exposure.

Learn more about the Wisconsin Welcome Center opportunities online. Contact Joellyn Merz or any of the Welcome Center managers for more information and to discuss your ideas.

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