The team at JAR Audio is so lucky we get to work with such great brands as Expedia. So when we launched Out Travel The System last year we were excited to give listeners inside intel on how to navigate the vast and often confusing online travel space.
For example:
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Etc.
In addition, we wanted to inspire people with great travel stories and practical destination-based information.
But then the pandemic reached across the world – and travel grew not only confusing… but potentially dangerous.
The Expedia team is laser focused on the needs of their customers and podcast audience, so when the pandemic shook the travel world they immediately saw the need to pivot the objective of the podcast, and the messaging brought to the ears of listeners.
The travel industry had been rocked to its core, so the Expedia team sprung into action. Back in March we scrambled to provide initial critical information to customers about refunds and re-bookings. Meanwhile, countries around the world called their travellers home from abroad, and chaos ensued. Under these conditions, Out Travel The System podcast became less of a storytelling tool, and more of an outreach service to help the overall strain on their communications department, and reduce the anxiety travellers we’re experiencing.
Next, during an evolving situation that seemed to change daily, we looked to meet their listeners’ needs for up-to-date information about travel safety:
Information included:
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What airlines would have the toughest mask policies.
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Which airlines were keeping the middle seat free to allow greater social distancing.
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What options do travellers have (compared to hotels) that gives them control of their environment.
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What hotels were doing to make their space safe. One thing was for sure – the communal breakfast buffet is on hold.
And coming up this season, Out Travel The System will be leaning into new travel trends for 2020 and 2021, including armchair and virtual travel, wilderness adventure, domestic destinations, and alternative accommodation such as RV travel and vacation rental by owner.
One of Expedia’s values is to be helpful to travellers. This goal has never wavered (and will never waver) in terms of the spirit we collectively bring to the podcast. Although the stakes have been raised, and the world of travel looks very different today than it did a mere six months ago, the team behind Out Travel The System is committed to bringing the world of travel to the ears of our listeners.
For sure… travel during a pandemic brings numerous concerns and complications. But despite the continuing dangers of COVID, the truth is that many of us have no choice but to hop on a plane, train, or automobile. Perhaps we have family who lives far away. Perhaps our livelihood depends on air travel. Perhaps we need to get out of town in order to simply preserve what’s left of our sanity during these trying times. Whatever the conditions – travel, for many people, is simply a fact of life. The team at Expedia recognizes this, and through Out Travel The System, seeks to continue offer tangible value to travellers.
Real advice that helps solve real problems, in times that feel unreal.
Jen Moss is the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of JAR Audio.
