Westin’s 5-minute vacation interludes is a supersavvy deployment of a killer trend – the rising popularity of video and “immersive content” on the web. Travel video sites are already serving up a platter of YouTube-inspired journeys through popular destinations and unusual escapes. Big branded properties as well as lesser-known chains can harness video to build a new audience on the web. A few tips
– Serve up an engaging storyline as opposed to an interactive brochure
– Have real guests give testimonials
– Sell the property and brand (most travelers know where they want to go)
– Use humor, an offer or a surprising creative.