Carroll County Times Articles
Technology Helps with Travel
by Steve Kerkam – July 3, 2005
So, you are planning the family trek to your favorite vacation spot. Have things changed over the years in how you handle this important task? If you are like most of us, you are now using technology to its fullest advantage. Instead of taking the time to visit your local travel agent or to pick up the telephone to call hotels and vacation spots, you are using your computer and the Internet to gather your information and make your travel plans. The advantage to you - save time and money! Even if you still use travel agencies, they are also now wired into the internet to make the arrangements for you.
Virtual Brochure
The Internet has helped to put local small businesses on an even par with larger competitors. Websites are essential marketing tools for small businesses. For example, smaller Bed and Breakfasts in Carroll County can effectively compete with larger hotel chains if they have an alluring website. The website now serves as a “virtual brochure” for the inquiring visitor and must provide all the necessary information on featured amenities provided by the establishment.
When you look for that perfect vacation spot, are you looking for specific amenities this time around? Is the pool or hot tub a number one priority? Perhaps you need a wireless connection in you room so you can check email and stay in touch back home. Are you concerned about the provider of local calling or long distance services at your destination? With the use of cell phones today, does it really make any difference at all?
Almost two thirds of business travelers today will connect to the internet using their own laptop. A fifth of business travelers' first point of contact with the internet would still be in an internet cafe or using a public desktop or terminal in their hotel. These sites can be found throughout Carroll County.
Vacation Costs
AAA's annual vacation costs survey reveals lodging and dining costs have increased a combined average of 5 percent since last year. A family of two adults and two children can expect to pay an average of $247 per day for food and lodging. Lodging rates will average $129 a night, up 3.9 percent from last year. Meals will cost $118, up 6.5 percent. These increases are attributed to two reasons - increased demand for lodging and escalated transportation costs for meat, dairy and produce which impact dining costs.
So, as you travel, have fun and relax. You deserve it! Remember: “You do not have to go far - you just have to go.” And Carroll County is the perfect technology rich place to stay and relax.
About the Author
Steve Kerkam is the Owner / Innkeeper of Wood's Gain Bed and Breakfast and an Advisor for the Carroll Technology Council, a non-profit organization dedicated to educating businesses, government and residents about technology issues. Questions are welcomed and may be addressed in future articles. Email Steve Kerkam at steve@woodsgain.com, or go to www.carrolltechcouncil.org for a list of other Advisor categories.
