VBT Announces New Facebook and Twitter Presence

President shares vision of “community of like-minded travelers”

BRISTOL, VT — VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations has launched a new Facebook page and Twitter account, the company announced today.

“Our travelers are historically very engaged with us, both before and after their trips,” said Gregg Marston, the company’s President. “We see these new venues of communication as two more ways to facilitate discussions between us, and a way for our travelers to connect with VBT and other travelers directly.”

Marston calls his company’s new online presence “a passionate community of like-minded travelers” – one in which both present and future VBT travelers can share their thoughts and experiences about the company’s vacation packages.

By connecting with VBT via Facebook and Twitter, travelers can also discuss upcoming bicycling vacations and walking vacations, and even help each other determine where to travel next. “Imagine,” Marston continues, “that I’m researching cycling holidays in Europe. If I’m undecided where to go, I can post a question to this vibrant, well-informed online community. Before I know it, I might be having a live ‘conversation’ with people who just returned from VBT’s Italy bicycling and walking vacations … or even more specifically our Tuscany bicycling and walking vacations.” It’s a great tool, he says, to narrow down your next destination.

Travel mates can also connect after their trips, and ask questions of VBT staff before reserving trips and before departing. On Facebook, users can share VBT travel photos – not only with travel companions but with their family and friends. Another Facebook feature is the “Reviews” tab, where travelers can write a review of their VBT trip.

VBT will be active in the discussions, too. Marston says that he and other members of VBT’s leadership team will post special messages on Facebook and Twitter so they can stay in close contact with the VBT community of travelers. Trip Leaders will share their latest travel tips. The company will also post announcements – photo contest details, special events, and special savings being offered only to the online community. “There are many, many unique benefits that VBT travelers, and anyone who is thinking about becoming a VBT traveler, will enjoy in our online community,” Marston concludes.

Interested travelers can keep up to date on VBT, trip specials, and more by following the company on Twitter (@VBTVacations) and by clicking the “Like” button at the top of the “VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations” Facebook page.

Founded in 1971, VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations is celebrating its 40th Anniversary this year. The company offers 36 deluxe bicycling and walking tours in 25 countries worldwide, including destinations in Europe, Costa Rica, New Zealand, Vietnam, Peru and the U.S.A. Each trip includes all accommodations, many meals, two expert local Trip Leaders, unique sightseeing and cultural activities, and full vehicle support. Unlike other companies, VBT also includes international airfare in its trip cost. As a commitment to its unsurpassed value, VBT guarantees its travelers that 2011 prices are less than or equal to 2010 prices.

For reservations or more information, call 1-855-486-0205 or log on to the company’s website, www.vbt.com.