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There are a myriad of changes hitting the world of digital marketing. 
It’s been said that digital marketing as a whole has evolved more in the past 2 years than in the last 20. 
That’s true across industries – but especially in the travel and hospitality industry. New trends, emerging technologies, and shifting demands have given digital marketers in the field a run for their money.
The way people think about travel in general – especially the millennial generation – has radically transformed the way tourism is marketed. It's also altered how a digital agency goes about creating strategies.
With 2019 well underway, brands need to learn what new and exciting shifts are hitting the market in order to prepare their strategies for maximum success.
Follow along for five key digital marketing trends in the travel and hospitality industry that are influencing the way consumers book vacations, behave while travelling, and interact with travel brands throughout their journey.

5 Digital Marketing Trends to Give Your 2019 Travel Strategy a Boost

1. Social Media Delivers the Most Compelling Content

2. More Users are Making Cross-Platform Purchases

98% of Americans switch between devices every day.

Not only that – 90% of consumers expect a seamless brand experience across channels.

Therefore, brands in the travel and tourism industry need to start creating seamless experiences across devices, channels, and mediums to secure these loyal customers.
Considering the nature of travel – it's an experience after all – brands need to develop that same experience for their consumers through omni-channel marketing initiatives on their website, apps, and in person so users can immerse themselves completely. 

3. Voice Search is on the Rise

97% of mobile users make use of the voice search that is embedded in smartphones. In addition to this, researchers predict that 50%  of all searches will be through voice by 2020.
As a result, more and more brands are turning towards voice search optimization to secure these up-and-coming consumers.
Local business can capitalize on voice search devices, as most of the searches done through these voice-enabled devices are local in nature. For example, consumers searching for a neighborhood restaurant or tour.
Therefore, the sooner a hotel digital marketing agency starts optimizing a brand’s online content, the better equipped they will be to handle the increased traffic, sales, and interactions moving forward.

4. Search Engine Ads Entice Users to Travel

Brands earn an average of $2 for every $1 they put into Google AdWords.

Search engine ads still reign supreme in the world of digital advertisement. This trend shows how powerful these ads can be and why hospitality brands must continue investing in PPC advertisements.

Most consumers will begin a travel search via a search engine. Therefore, having these ads embedded where users are searching is an easy way to get them to your site without giving them the chance to look elsewhere.

5. Artificial Intelligence Emerges to Provide Real-Time Support

AI is expected to generate $2.9 trillion in business value by 2021.
When people are making a purchase, perusing different options, and even after they’ve made it to their destination, they will likely have questions.
That means that these consumers will want to have a quick, easy, and reliable way to get in contact with your brand throughout the process.
For most users, that means that they’ll turn to their mobile devices to initiate these interactions – and having a helpful AI chatbot in place can relieve them of their worries almost instantly.
Not only that, but these AI integrations can lead users on a journey throughout a brand’s website, making it easier for them to make that final booking and start their journey off the digital platform. 
More and more people want instant gratification when it comes to brand communications – this AI technology can give it to them. 
In addition, the data AI collects is extremely helpful in building successful digital marketing strategies going forward to help better optimize and streamline campaigns. 

Travel Marketing – What to Expect in 2019

The digital marketing landscape is constantly evolving – that's why brands need to ready themselves for the technological and digital future. It will definitely affect their marketing strategies.
From artificial intelligence to voice search, travel and hospitality brands can ready their upcoming digital marketing strategies to compel them to shop local, book a vacation and more.
By keeping these shifting trends in mind, brands in the travel and hospitality industry can ensure their next marketing and advertising strategy makes a positive impression.
Base Element is a digital marketing agency that is tested, prepared, and excited about these new digital challenges and can certainly help you achieve your business objectives in the ultra-competitive global  online travel arena. 

Looking to level up your digital capabilities but don’t know how? Check out this article!