SMCVB Launches Townsend Scrapbook

The Smoky Mountain Convention and Visitors Bureau (SMCVB), with the help of its partners The Tombras Group and Mediapulse, has launched a unique new feature on the SMCVB Web site. The Townsend “scrapbook,” www.townsendscrapbook.com, is a micro site that takes visitors on a Townsend tour through interactive, custom-built features, and allows them to have fun while learning about the area.

“Townsend is a unique destination, and we wanted to create a unique site that allowed visitors to experience it first-hand. This new micro site lets visitors explore the ‘Peaceful Side of the Smokies’ before they ever arrive on their vacation,” said Scott Spaid, president/CEO of Mediapulse. “This type of site is not only fun for visitors, it will increase consumer awareness and hopefully even attract visitors.”

Built to resemble a scrapbook of a vacation, visitors traverse the site by wandering around in the scrapbook, clicking on various items, mementos and snapshots to experience Townsend.

Visitors can view interactive, 360-degree photography of Townsend’s historical sites, attractions and scenery and local nature sites by clicking through the Townsend Photo Gallery. A “Wish You Were Here” postcard featuring picturesque nature scenes can be sent to friends and family through email or by downloading and printing the card.

“The site is just another way we are showcasing all that we have to offer. The site offers information, games, visuals and highlights our uniqueness,” said Herb Handly, executive vice president of tourism for the Smoky Mountain Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Of course the bureau’s main Web site, www.smokymountains.org, is the real workhorse because the it contains all of the information consumers need to plan trips to Townsend, such as a calendar of events, lists of amenities and links to booking with accommodations and attractions. But the new scrapbook site is a place where consumers can go to be entertained and have some fun, all while experiencing our brand.”

If visitors want some creative games, they can even play with the local wildlife on the new site. “Even Raccoons Need Vacations” is a game that helps a raccoon make his way through the local landscape on a bus and arrive at his log cabin. “Just Passing By” has visitors match birdcalls and animal tracks with creatures found in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

“Townsend Tales” is a feature in which Townsend vacationers can submit stories and photographs, detailing their trips to Townsend for future display.

“When we talk to our visitors at the visitors center or on the phone, they always have wonderful stories to share with us,” said Handly. “This feature on the new site allows them to send those to us, and we can use them to show others what a great destination Townsend is.”

Visitors also have a direct link to www.smokymountains.org to begin planning their own Townsend vacation.

About Mediapulse
Mediapulse was founded in 1995 and is Tennessee’s oldest and most established Internet marketing company. Mediapulse’s clients include New Homes Guide, Singer Sewing Company, Barna Log Homes, Regal Entertainment Group, and Tennessee Valley Authority. For more information, please call (800) 380-4514.

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