For many of us, Facebook is a great way to stay in touch and share pictures with family and friends. For travel buffs, however, there's a lot more to Facebook than "friending" and photos. Facebook's "Fan Pages," which are designed to allow users to interact with company representatives, offer traveler an opportunity to learn about travel bargains, discounts and deals.
Find Travel Deals on Facebook "Pages"
For example, Amtrak's "Promotions" section on its Facebook page includes information on seasonal rail travel discounts and displays special fares on specific routes. Travelers can read Amtrak's service announcements and post questions on Amtrak's Facebook Wall and receive answers from other Facebook users.
Cruise lines and airlines have taken advantage of Facebook's popularity to share information with travelers around the world. Norwegian Cruise Line's Facebook "Promotion" section includes current cruise deals, while its "Discussions" section provides first-time and returning cruisers with forums where they can ask questions and share information about upcoming trips.
JetBlue Airways' Facebook Wall displays current airfare sales and promotions. Aviation buffs will enjoy JetBlue's "Photos" section on its Facebook page, which features over 450 pictures submitted by Facebook members.
Tour operators have established Facebook pages, too. For example, Tauck's Facebook Wall includes information about travel documents, links to travel videos and information about current special offers. In addition, Tauck staff members and tour directors are more than willing to answer questions about upcoming trips.
The Bottom Line
Facebook is much more than a social networking site for teens with time on their hands. For the traveler, Facebook can be an extremely useful resource – and you just might find out what your grandchildren want for their birthdays.
Senior Travel at About.com is on Facebook, too; stop by and say hello.
