We are constantly bombarded with advertising. It’s hard to escape the barrage of products we ‘need’ or should try; but have you noticed how a personal recommendation from a friend or colleague can often have far more clout than a generic sales message. It’s incredible how powerful word of mouth is and it should never be underestimated.
I’ve found that the same has to be said for travel. The guide books and websites give us plenty of information on where to stay and what to do, but over the years, some of our favourite travel destinations have been discovered by chatting to fellow like minded travellers.
One of our most satisfying finds was a beautiful remote beach on the East of Borneo. Crystal clear water, a handful of basic cottages and a bar / restaurant. It had recently opened and hadn’t yet ‘hit’ the Lonely Planet guide. We would have been oblivious to this gem had we not got chatting to a group of backpackers in a hostel in Kota Kinabalu. One recommendation, a two hour taxi drive and a rib boat later we were there, enjoying our secret find. Four days later and back on the main travel trail we were able to pass this secret find on to yet more grateful travellers.
Beautifully secluded beach shared with 2 other guests
This is why I have launched ‘Our Tribe Travels’. It’s a positive ‘space’ for like minded family travellers to exchange tips and recommendations making independent family travel easier.
CAN YOU HELP?
I want to put the power of like minded traveller’s recommendations to the test.
My 6 year old son and I have return tickets to Bangkok booked for the October half term, but as yet we have not booked any accommodation.
After meeting friends in North Phuket for 2 nights (also not booked), I’m going to put our adventure holiday in the hands of the ‘Our Tribe Travels’ Facebook community. I trust that there are plenty of amazing beaches, guest houses and activities that you know about, that are off the main tourist trail. I want to harness the power of a community and also demonstrate how an amazing family holiday doesn’t have to be pre planned to the T.
So what are you waiting for? Throw out your budget friendly recommendations and let’s see where it takes us…
Sign up to the blog for top tips and inspiration and join the conversation on our Facebook community ‘Our Tribe Travels’
See you soon 🙂