The Worst Timing

How could it be? I'm heading back to a great school, about to quit my summer "internship" and here I find myself envying another job?

http://careers.hsmai.org/jobs/4368331/senior-forecasting-analyst?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

I want it. An analyst position at WDW? How awesome would that be? Maybe they'll be looking for another one when I'm done.....

Micro Tripping

Ever done something repeatedly, thinking it was unique, and then realized there are other people who do this too? And there's even a name for 'it'? Like that crazy aunt who always had something wrong - "Hypochondriac". Or that guy who loves to clean, keeps all the doors shut and can't sit down to eat a meal until the dishes are done - "OCD".

Apparently, my love of spontaneous short trips is not unique - or even uncommon. It is called "Micro Tripping"

Most commonly characterized as young, flexible and social media or tech savvy,  this new wave of traveler is helping to fill unoccupied hotel space. Transactions are typically driven by "flash sales" or a push marketing mechanism, allowing consumers to enjoy 35+% discounts while retailers promote to consumers who have never stayed at the property. What is neat about marketing to these "micro trippers" is the ability to actually create demand, rather than only targeting customers who were looking to travel anyway or vying to take market share from competitors.

My favorite part of the scenario -  the target market. Young, Flexible and tech savvy - the perfect guest to help boost your Yelp! or Trip Adviser rating. These guests are used to sharing their opinions about accommodations, understand the "value" of checking-in and you've already won their hearts with the 35+% off! This would be a great opportunity for a new property or little-known boutique to get into the online game.

(Because of Sunday Funday, I've been micro tripping with my imagination all day.... )  

You can blog in a train, you can blog in a plane!

Currently on American airlines flight 1933, heading west to Las Vegas. American airlines- America's new low cost carrier.... I only paid $100 for my flight, but they suckered me into paying $8 for gogo inflight wireless. Pathetic.

Best part of my flight the American Way article on Barcelona! http://www.americanwaymag.com/barcelona-montjuiumlc-cemetery-mediterranean
Sagrada Familia basilica is my absolute must-see trip requirement. This place, which started construction in the 1800's, is only half done! With three distinct facades, the catholic church is a thing of beauty and looks like it should be located in the happiest place on earth (Disney world, ofcourse).

Until I get to see this basilica thing- I guess Ceasar's Palace will do. We're staying at the MGM and attempting to get into the pool clubs. I wonder if I remembered my swim suit..... Packing at 4am maybe wasn't the best idea.

Disclaimer- I really dislike AA for personal reasons and will be flying a different carrier back to DFW tomorrow evening.

Tripomatic feature - Ironically Handy

Ironic only because its day 2 of the dalieshalie and I need to start planning the sight-seeing details of our trip - this thing is pretty cool. Tripomatic.com was featured in an article today by TechCruch, describing the business plan and potential revenue opportunities for the trip-planner and itinerary manager.  Built by an entreprenuer and his wife based in Czech Republic, Tripomatic brings all the qualities of a travel agent into your living room. I have admittedly only spent 20 minutes on the site (the site launched June 8), but I think the location-based interface is really inspiring.

The company currently only offers trip planning at select European destinations, but promises to add additional cities soon. http://www.tnooz.com/2011/07/14/tlabs/tripomatic-enters-busy-planning-and-personal-travel-itinerary-market/

Not all those who wander are lost - JRR Tolken

And so it begins...  planning for the next adventure! I Love It!

This time, to celebrate summer and take a break before heading to school, and for Jeremy to turn off his blackberry (atleast that is my plan for him). 

Check out the itinerary below, From Zurich to Madrid!