We are in the "visual" age where images, on the internet, your website, and your various forms of promotion speak for your product. According to statistics provided by the California Travel & Tourism Commission we know that:

· 86% of Americans travel with their cell phones and use them to call ahead to see what's blooming today or to book an experience

· 70% of 15-30 year olds use social networks such as Facebook to learn about and share with friends. This is growing with older travelers

· 75% of web users trust online reviews more than other written sources

· Almost three quarters of the 98 million travelers in California made their travel arrangements online in 2004(California Travel & Tourism Commission).

Being visible is paramount. Posted customer reviews and ratings are important, and most of all, the visual appearance of your web presence is crucial, whether it's on your website, a Facebook page, your blog, or a twitter account.

While we know that the Internet is the number one source of travel planning and purchasing it's the consumer who is becoming the medium or gateway to your farm or ranch via "social media" and networking sites. Tripadvisor is used by one of each four travelers and blogs about your site are also popular. Randall Travel Marketing predicts this consumer-to-consumer style of travel information sourcing will be one of the largest trends to affect the travel and tourism industry in the near future. Simply put, the consumer is now in control of tourism marketing.

Here are several examples of website portals that will list your farm for greater exposure. All are either free or have a free membership option.

California Agricultural Tourism Directory

http://www.calagtour.org/

FarmstayUS

http://www.farmstayus.com/

Rural Bounty

http://www.ruralbounty.com/