Why DMOs Shouldn’t Miss TravMedia’s International Media Marketplace in NYC
When it comes to showcasing your destination to the world, there’s one place that should be on every DMO’s calendar: TravMedia’s International Media Marketplace (IMM). Taking place in the Big Apple, the day is centered around meet and greets with the industry’s top writers. Think of it as speed dating for PR pros and journalists, except the stakes are way higher than a second date—these connections can result in the kind of coverage that gets heads turning and tourists booking.
Legacy Media Isn’t Dead, It’s Thriving
In a world of TikTok dances and ChatGPT-written travel guides, legacy media still packs a punch. A New York Times feature? A glossy spread in Travel and Leisure? A piece in AFAR? Those aren’t just stories; they’re endorsements from some of the most trusted names in the biz. And, we’ll let you in on a little secret: where do you think AI pulls from? That’s right. Long-established, trusted, high-ranking sources. IMM is where you can get in front of these writers and editors who, spoiler alert, still have an enormous influence on how travelers plan their adventures.
Sure, AI can crank out travel blogs at the speed of light, but it lacks one key ingredient: human connection and first-person experiences. Building face-to-face relationships with journalists not only keeps your destination’s stories authentic but also makes it harder for robots to hijack the narrative.
Countering Meta’s Free Speech Updates
With recent changes in Meta’s algorithms making organic reach feel like a game of limbo (how low can it go?), relying on social media alone is like trying to build a sandcastle during high tide. The antidote? Building relationships with media pros who can bypass the algorithmic chaos and tell your story in ways that actually reach people. What a concept, right?!
In today’s digital landscape, journalists are positioning themselves more and more as trusted sources on social media platforms, their individual owned blogs, and subscription substacks and newsletters. Relationships can only go so far via email and zoom – these in-person meet and greets make way for endless conversations, continuously putting DMOs at the top of the list for these industry leaders.
Making the Most with a PR Power Move
Showing up to IMM says, “We’re serious about sharing our story.” It positions your destination as one that values meaningful relationships and recognizes the power of earned media. Plus, let’s be honest, no AI-generated press release is going to beat an in-person chat with a journalist over coffee. We try to make the most of our time while in the city, bookending the busy day with additional 1:1 desksides and intimate hosted media dinners. We can assure you, it’s worth the investment.
The tried-and-true power of real relationships and intentional PR strategies is here to stay—and this is where it all starts. If you’re heading to NYC, drop us a a line – we’d love to see you (in person 😉).
