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Thursday, 13 November 2014 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
In organising the above, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts together with the Professional Travel Bloggers Association (PTBA) selected 50 of the Best Travel Bloggers who will also tour around Sri Lanka prior to the conference as a pre-conference tour.
Speaking about the event, Allison Busacca, Editor of BBC Travel shared her thoughts on the conference.
Q: Your sentiments about giving the keynote address at Asia’s first ever Travel Bloggers Conference
A: I am honoured to be giving the keynote address at November’s Travel Bloggers Conference. Over the last few days, I’ve heard from so many writers who are excited to be attending the event. It’s going to be a productive few days!
Q: The benefits of digital media and how you see it impacting the tourism industry of Sri Lanka
A: It’s an exciting time to be in digital media. As technology improves and audiences grow, digital media is quickly becoming the only medium that you can access nearly anywhere, on any device, at any time. It’s a medium that is constantly pushing the limits and is prime for reader engagement. Where print and TV are largely based on presentation; digital is based on interactivity. Your readers are more than your audience; they’re a part of how you tell your stories. Since tourism boards can also be storytellers, that reach and engagement is a key tool for any destination across the globe.
Q: What will be the topics of discussion?
A: My keynote speech is titled: ‘Content isn’t king, good content is’. I will also be on a panel with Craig Martin, the PTBA President, and Steve Keenan, former editor at the London Times, discussing ethics in the online travel writing world.
Q: The importance as you see it, of blogging and having a conference of this nature in Sri Lanka?
A: I really see us all as content creators. Tourism board, blogger, traditional media – we’re all aiming to tell better stories and connect more effectively with our audience. In that regard, I always think it’s a good idea to get together and talk about how we can improve on those two things.
Q: How different is this conference from others that you have spoken at?
A: What I love about this conference is the quality time I’ll get to spend with many of the attendees. It’s unique to have a few days together before the full conference day on 18 November, and I’m excited to spend the time learning from everyone. The multi-day set up really allows ample time for collaboration and innovation. I’m excited to see what new ideas unfold!
